How to Reduce Inflammation After Surgery

Surgery is tough on the body, even if you plan ahead, your body’s immune system is triggered into action. Inflammation is a natural part of the healing process but too much of it can slow things down and make recovery more uncomfortable than it needs to be. In this article we’ll unpack how to reduce inflammation after surgery in a safe and effective way.

What Causes Inflammation After Surgery?

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury. After surgery, white blood cells rush to the affected area to start healing. While this is good, it can also lead to swelling, redness, warmth, and pain. The body needs some inflammation to heal, but if it lingers or becomes severe, it can interfere with mobility and increase your risk of complications. 

How to Reduce Inflammation in the Body Fast After Surgery

Resting and keeping the affected area elevated has been shown to help with swelling. It encourages fluid to drain away from the surgical site when it’s greater than 60 degrees of elevation. However, you also want to avoid becoming completely immobile. Too much inactivity can actually contribute to inflammation. Once your doctor clears you, gentle movement like walking can improve circulation and help your body recover faster.

Your diet plays a huge role in recovery. Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, like leafy greens, berries, salmon, turmeric, and nuts. Avoid processed foods, added sugars, and anything overly salty as they tend to increase inflammation and water retention. Water helps flush out toxins and keeps your tissues hydrated, which can reduce swelling. Dehydration, on the other hand, can slow down healing and make inflammation worse. Try to sip water consistently throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. 

Cold therapy is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce swelling. Applying ice packs in short 15-20 minute intervals during the first 48 hours can limit blood flow to the area and helps minimize inflammation. Just remember to never place it directly on the skin, instead wrap the ice in a towel first. 

Medication plays a role too. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can help manage inflammation, but it’s important to follow dosage instructions and check with your doctor first, especially if you’re on other prescriptions. In some cases, prescription anti-inflammatories may be recommended but your care team will know what’s safest based on your surgery and medical history.

Final Thoughts

That said, not all inflammation is bad. You don’t want to shut down the healing process completely. The goal is to manage the kind that lingers too long or gets in the way of recovery. If you’re ever unsure whether your inflammation is normal, or if the swelling starts getting worse instead of better, don’t hesitate to check in with your doctor or surgeon. Recovery can be frustrating at times, but the right steps really do help. A bit of movement, smart food choices, and cold therapy can go a long way. Giving your body a hand makes the healing process a little smoother and a lot more manageable.