Checking into a hospital for a procedure or following a medical event can be a stressful experience. As well as medical concerns, mental decline are common side effects of a significant hospital stay. Many people can become de-conditioned after a hospital stay and below are some tips to help reduce and address the issues that arise with a hospital stay.
- Keep moving
There was a time when bed rest was considered the best way to recover, but today it has become clear that gradually increasing exercise is imperative for regaining strength. Even if you are too weak to stand, there are exercises that can be done from a chair or bed that can increase your strength and mobility.
- Eat for energy
Be sure to choose foods that will provide needed proteins and nutrients and drink plenty of liquids. If you don’t have an appetite, try eating smaller more frequent meals.
Our physiotherapists at Home Physio Group can help with your recovery by firstly assessing your ability to sit, stand, walk and climb stairs in your home. If your balance and walking is difficult, you may need to use some equipment such as a frame or walking stick to move around safely. Your physiotherapist will teach you a range of muscle strengthening exercises that will improve your ability to stand and walk , and as a result of these exercises, your arms legs and trunk will get stronger and you will be able to stand or walk for longer.
Try to keep in touch with others through phone calls, texts, social media or email. Also watching the news, reading and keeping up with current affairs is an excellent way to remain alert and aware. If feelings of depression occur, contact your GP.
- Stay connected
Treatment sessions will focus on short term goals initially such as getting out of bed or climbing stairs. Our physiotherapists will also be able to provide you with the following:
- Mobility practice
- Falls advice and education
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Range of movement stretches
- Balance and core stability exercises
- Soft tissue mobilisation and massage
- Practice of functional tasks
- Pain management
- Transfer practice
- Home exercise program
- Training and education of families and carers
Benefits to physiotherapy include a reduced risk of falls, swelling and pain, an increase of mobility, balance, muscle strength and overall it can give you increased confidence and motivation.
For more information on how we can help you with regaining strength after your hospital stay, please contact us on 0207 096 0682 or alternatively fill out our contact sheet and we will get back to you.