Exercises to Avoid Immediately Following Oral Surgery
Posted on 10/1/2024 by Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
 After undergoing oral surgery, whether it's a wisdom tooth extraction, implant placement, or another procedure, taking it easy and allowing your body to heal is essential. While this includes resting and avoiding strenuous activities, it also means being mindful of certain exercises that can put unnecessary stress on the surgical site and hinder the healing process.
Why Rest is Crucial
Following oral surgery, blood clots form at the extraction or surgical site. These clots are vital for initiating the healing process, and disrupting them can lead to complications like dry sockets, infections, and delayed healing. Strenuous activities, including specific exercises, can increase blood flow and dislodge these delicate clots.
Exercises to Avoid
Here are some specific exercises you should avoid immediately following oral surgery:
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Heavy Lifting: Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for at least a week. This includes grocery bags, children, or pets. |
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High-Impact Activities: Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities can jarring to your body and put unnecessary stress on the healing site. |
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Contact Sports: Sports like football, basketball, and soccer involve physical contact and have a higher risk of bumps or blows to the face, which can be detrimental during healing. |
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Strenuous Aerobic Exercise: Activities like running, swimming, and cycling can elevate your heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of bleeding and delaying healing. |
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Crunches and Sit-Ups: These abdominal exercises can put strain on the surgical site, especially if sutures are present. |
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Weightlifting: Avoid lifting heavy weights or using weight machines that engage your upper body, as this can strain your facial muscles and potentially dislodge blood clots. |
When You Can Resume Exercise
The exact timeframe for resuming your regular exercise routine will depend on the specific oral surgery you underwent and your individual healing progress. It's crucial to follow your oral surgeon's instructions and attend any follow-up appointments to monitor your healing.
Generally, you can expect to:
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Resume light activities: like walking and gentle stretching, after a few days. |
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Gradually increase the intensity of your workouts: over the next week or two. |
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Return to your regular exercise routine: within 4-6 weeks, with your oral surgeon's clearance. |
Alternative Activities
While you're refraining from strenuous exercise, there are plenty of alternative activities you can enjoy to stay active and promote healing:
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Walking: Gentle walks are an excellent way to stay mobile and improve blood circulation without putting stress on the surgical site. |
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Stretching: Light stretches can help maintain flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness. |
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Yoga: Restorative yoga poses can be calming and promote relaxation, aiding in the healing process. |
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Meditation: Meditation can help manage stress and anxiety, both of which can hinder healing. |
Remember, proper oral care is essential following surgery. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing gently twice a day and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as instructed by your oral surgeon. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and using straws, as these can irritate the surgical site and delay healing.
By following your oral surgeon's instructions, avoiding strenuous activities, and engaging in alternative exercises, you can promote a smooth and speedy recovery following oral surgery.
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