Day 0 Post Op Lumpectomy

Day 0

Hello friends! One thing I have learned through the years is that sharing our struggles can encourage and help others.

So I'm sharing something I haven't shared with anyone yet.

Last week I had an XL-sized lumpectomy.

As a self-employed mom of 3, it’s nearly impossible for me to just take a week or so off to heal.

But I wanted to share what I’m doing to heal from my unique vantage point as a women’s health PT AND as a patient:

⚠️ I made this video about 8 hours after surgery. I have no surgical limitations on shoulder range of motion - but many women will. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations. See the video for details:

✅ Get as comfy as you can in that chest binder so you can rest. Maybe in a recliner or propped up in bed.
✅ Stay ahead of the pain.
✅ Stay hydrated to help with post-op constipation. Fluid recommendation: Drink half your body weight (in pounds) in ounces. So if you weigh 140 - that would be 70 ounces of water (not caffeine or alcohol).
✅ Eat enough fiber. My lovely mom made me homemade chicken/veggie soup - a perfect hydrating blend of fiber and protein.
✅ Keep moving, but safely! Movement encourages improved circulation, digestion, and healing.
✅ Start slow and follow surgical limitations on shoulder range of motion. Shoulder rolls can be a great place to start!
✅ Breathe! Use deep belly breathing and victorious breath.

🚨And, what about nausea?

✅ no-sugar ginger ale (no artificial flavoring or colors),
✅ almond flour crackers (gluten can increase nausea and congestion for some people) that have fiber
✅ deep abdominal breathing,
✅ P6 acupressure point compression (google it!),
✅ inhalation (not ingestion) of peppermint oil
✅ ginger or peppermint tea

*See my YouTube channel or sign up for my free videos for the BREATH PRACTICES - link in bio

*These are suggestions for educational purposes only and do not constitute physical therapy. You should get the approval of your surgeon before doing this or any movement or exercise program after surgery.

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Disclaimer: This and any other videos by Dr. Ginger Garner and the Living Well team do not constitute a patient-provider relationship nor are they a substitute for medical care or physical therapy. By participating in these videos user assumes all risk. Before starting this or any other exercise regimen you should seek the advice and/or clearance of your physician, nurse practitioner, and/or physical therapist. To learn with Dr. G and her team, visit https://www.livingwellinc.org.

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