After undergoing lengthening surgery, it’s crucial for patients to follow their doctors’ advice for rest and not overlook the treatments they need. The recovery period for this surgery might be somewhat extended, but with appropriate care and treatments, patients can eventually resume their normal daily activities.
One common question from patients is “can I run again after limb lengthening surgery?”. While the answer is generally yes, it’s important to first consider certain precautions and factors that need attention before engaging in such activities.
When Can I Start Running after Surgery?
First of all, we should state that the recovery period after lenghtening surgery takes about 1 year. If your doctor approves, you can do light-paced jogging in a period of 9-12 months, but usually this period takes up to 1 year. Depending on the bone fusion processes or possible complications of some patients, these processes can take up to 1.5 years. At this point, before you start running, you must have the necessary examinations and your x-rays must be examined by the doctor.
It should not be forgotten that the excess load on the bones that do not fully fuse can cause the nails in your leg to break. That’s why it’s so important to get this approval from your doctor! The point to remember here is that not every patient can perform sports activities in the same way. Although most patients can return to their former activities after limb lengthening surgery, some patients may have problems such as gait change and decreased running speed. At this point, support is usually provided to the patient with physiotherapies under the control of a doctor.
To Remember after Limb Lengthening Surgery
Once your necessary treatments are completed under a doctor’s supervision, it’s generally safe to resume your everyday activities. However, it’s important to remember that this isn’t a quick process. Lengthening surgery involves a lengthy treatment period. It’s essential to consistently attend to your dressings, ensure ample rest, and most importantly, adhere to your physical therapy regimen.
Ignoring your doctor’s recommended treatments can lead to delayed healing or potentially more severe health issues. Thus, it’s crucial to handle not just the surgery, but also the post-operative care with utmost attention and diligence.
Steps to Reduce Potential Risks Before Starting to Run
It’s crucial to exercise caution before resuming sports activities post-lengthening surgery. Jumping back into physical activity after months of inactivity can lead to injuries. Here are some key considerations before you start running:
- Gradual Running: Progression Begin with gentle walks, then progress to short, light-paced jogs, and eventually intermittent runs. This gradual approach is much healthier than starting with intensive running.
- Running Surface: Pay attention to the surface you’re running on. Concrete can be harsh and poses risks, especially if you fall. Running on softer surfaces like grass, soil, or even asphalt is more advantageous.
- Taking Breaks: Running continuously can be harmful, particularly after surgery. It’s vital to take breaks during your runs to avoid overstraining your legs, which could lead to injuries.
- Suitable Footwear: The right running shoes are crucial. Ensure your shoes are appropriate for running to prevent leg injuries or strain. Opt for shoes that fit well but aren’t too tight, as this can also enhance your performance.
- Doctor Consultation: Consult your doctor before beginning your running routine and seek approval. Keeping your doctor informed about your progress, any leg pain, or discomfort during the sports process is important for your health and recovery.
If you also want to directly obtain information about the surgery process, you can review our patient interview below. For any other questions you have in mind, you can directly contact our patient representatives. You can also follow our TikTok account to be informed about our current senses and the development processes of our patients.
