The term “brain surgery” refers to various medical procedures that involve surgically correcting physical abnormalities in the brain. It is concisely explained as “an operation to treat problems in the brain and surrounding structures.” The need for brain surgery can be due to birth defect, disease, injury (such as traumatic brain injury), or other problems. The brain is the most complex organ in the body. It controls all areas of functioning, including thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger, and every process that regulates our body. The Cleveland Clinic asserts that “brain surgery aims to treat problems without disrupting these important functions.” Brain surgery is different for each person, and the recovery process from brain surgery will be different for everyone.
What About Exercising?
Yes, after allowing your brain ample time to heal, engaging in exercise after brain surgery can be beneficial to one’s recovery process. The general rule of thumb is to avoid rigorous activity, including strenuous exercise, for four weeks after brain surgery. The Academy of Neurological Therapy asserts “Exercise has been shown to help improve and prevent many conditions, including weight management, stress levels, emotional regulation/ mood, memory, attention, strength, endurance, balance, flexibility, and blood pressure regulation.” Prior to initiating any type of exercise after brain surgery, it is essential to consult one’s medical team to avoid impeding one’s recovery process.
The type, frequency, and duration of exercises recommended will be different for everyone, as factors such as the type of brain surgery, the occurrence of any complications during the procedure, as well as the area of the brain that was operated on will all contribute to what is best for the individual. An exercise program for an individual recovering from brain surgery should be customized to address an individual’s specific abilities and needs, while also considering the impact of surgery on one’s physical body and cognition. Depending on the individual’s physical ability, different forms of exercise that could benefit one’s recovery process could include walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, dancing, aerobics, yoga, and more. Exercise recommendations will continuously shift as an individual’s endurance increases and new activity goals are established.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long-lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment-related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
