Hi Flashcat,
I am sorry you're having sleep issues and can imagine it's frustrating. Sleep can be difficult and it often seems more so at night due to decreased activity and less distractions. Also, some pain meds, like Opioids and even NSAIDs can disrupt our sleep cycle. Any anxiety and frustration you're feeling can interfere with you getting restorative rest, so please know that these inconveniences are common to many and it will pass.
If you aren't already, try icing and elevating 20-30 minutes before bed to help reduce pain and swelling. If you're able to time meds closer to bedtime, that may help also. Avoid screen time before bed and also caffeine in the evening if it applies. This may help too.
Pillows certainly help me get comfortable in bed, making it easier to fall asleep. You can experiment with different arrangements to find what works for you. I surrounded myself with them so I could rest a leg, or arm easily enough, whatever felt comfortable. Doing whatever you're able to basically "set the scene" for sleep may be worthwhile. I suggest making up the bed with your most comfortable bedding / blankets along with a few extra bed pillows of different degrees of firmness. Try to block out the light if it's daytime. Minimize noise unless you feel listening to calming relaxation music, a fan, or white noise may help lull you to sleep. Make sure the room temperature is not too hot or too cold. Try to disconnect from the devices at least an hour before the targeted nap or bed time, so it's easier to wind down. Limit caffeine throughout the day and consider natural sleep aids such as Valerian, Chamomile or, Magnesium, my personal favorite, which can assist in muscle relaxation and nerves and promote healthy sleep (falling asleep and staying asleep)
Try some relaxation techniques if you feel they may work for you such as deep breathing, prayer or meditation or even some gentle stretching may help relax your body and mind.
An article on Magnesium from our Library -
https://bonesmart.org/forum/threads/magnesium-is-a-star.20301/
Most large grocers carry a variety of teas such as Celestial Seasonings - Sleepytime Herb Tea,
Yogi Teas, Bedtime, Bigelow Cozy Chamomile, all of which may help you relax...at least worth a try.
Regular movement is important to prevent stiffness. It's about consistency though, not intensity. Motion, but not overexertion is the goal right now.
Here is a rough gauge of where you may be currently. With that said, some excel, some lag behind, both are ok -
Week 3
Continue with all previous activities. Gradually increase walks to 5-10 minutes, several times per day, as tolerated.
New activity: Begin preparing simple meals or snacks for yourself to encourage gentle movement and independence, while staying within your current mobility and energy limits.
Weeks 4-5
Continue with all previous activities. Begin extending your walks to include time outdoors, such as in the garden or along the street. Aim for up to 20 minutes or more, depending on your comfort level. Remember, a 20 minute walk means 10 minutes one way and 10 minutes back. Plan ahead to avoid over exerting yourself.
As far as pain goes, it doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. There will be pain as your body heals for the "controlled" trauma of this major surgery. The pain, swelling and sleep issues are part of the process, even though they're incredibly difficult to deal with at times.
Please try not to worry about scar tissue, it will form as your body naturally knits the wound back together. It is made of collagen which your body quickly lays down in an effort to close and reinforce the area. You scar may look raise, firm, red, even shiny in the early weeks, but normally heals into a thin white line over time. As long as you're engaging in gentle movement and walking around several times per day, you're already helping prevent it.
As far as the Active Microbial Spray goes, the info reads -
Apply to any wound to instantly kill bacteria and promote proper healing. It's safe for use
by adults or children. Can be applied to an open wound or used around the eyes, nose
or mouth.
Check with your physicians office or send them a screen shot on the Antimicrobial Spray info to receive a nod of reassurance from them. It may make you feel more confident in using it.
Time and patience, will take care of your concerns. It's still early days for you so try to take a deep breath and roll with it all. Everything you're feeling anxious about is within the range of a normal healing journey, so please take comfort in that and know that we're here for you always.
Wishing you many nights of peaceful sleep soon!
@Flashcat
United States
! All the best
