5 Boredom-Busting Things to Do While Recovering from Surgery

Foot or ankle surgery is never at the top of anyone’s list of fun activities. It’s often worth going through for the desired or necessary results, of course, but it can be easy to underestimate just how much time may be required to make a full recovery.

Recovering from surgery can feel like a vacation with almost none of the benefits. In fact, you may very likely have some added restrictions in terms of what you can and can’t do to help ensure that you heal properly. 

We get that it can be frustrating, and if we could wave a wand to make post-operative recovery any easier, we would. But it is very important that you follow all instructions during recovery and take the time you need. Doing so will help ensure that you get back to full activity with the lowest possible risk of any complications.

But what to do in the meantime? We have a few suggestions for you while recovering from surgery. But remember: please follow all post-surgical instructions closely and don’t take on any physical activities until you have been cleared for them.

Binge Watch Something New

Let’s get this one out of the way, yes? 

Netflix is probably the first thing many people think of when considering ways to pass the time on a couch. It’s still a great option, certainly – but it’s also not your only one. 

The number of streaming options continues to grow (and is honestly probably at a ridiculous level already). Take some time to explore your options, and you might find something that seems like it was tailor-made for your tastes. (If you feel lucky, however, you can always try something like Netflix Roulette to see what randomly comes up). 

But there is more beyond traditional streaming services to see! Perhaps you want to try watching something on Twitch.TV. While video games are the predominant topic on this site, you can also find people who perform music, cook, riff movies, and perform other talents as well. You might even find channels dedicated to old shows.

Play Some Games

Nobody is too old for board games or video games. So many options exist now that cater to a huge variety of tastes – and there are more ways to play than ever.

Board games, for example, are much more than Monopoly or Clue these days. You can play games about sushi, games about birdwatching, and even games where you’re trying to solve mysteries with Sherlock Holmes. 

Inviting some friends over for some party games can be a fantastic time. But if circumstances prevent direct visits, there are also many options for playing board games remotely as well. Look up Tabletop Simulator, Board Game Arena, and Tabletopia for options.

There are also a plethora of options for video games, from old classics to new titles with engaging stories and concepts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people became enthralled building their own island paradises in Animal Crossing: New Horizons for the Nintendo Switch. That’s a great solo option, and other games such as the Jackbox Party Packs can be played with groups either all together or over video chat.

Get Some Fresh Air

Although hours can fly by in front of a game or screen, do not neglect allowing yourself a change of scenery when possible.

If you are not restricted to bed rest only, take at least a few minutes each day to go outside if the weather permits. Your porch, yard, or a balcony can do just fine, as long as you can get some sunlight and crisp air your way.

Taking some time out of the house and into a scene that’s a bit more natural can not only keep you from going stir crazy indoors, but provide refreshing effects for your mental health as a whole – and that will help you with your physical recovery as well.

Take Up a New Hobby

Have you long considered learning how to knit, play an instrument, or some other pastime? Now may be as good a time to start as any!

The Internet provides plenty of resources for beginners looking to develop new skills. YouTube in particular has hosts of videos where enthusiasts show newcomers the ropes. And don’t neglect the library as a source of information and entertainment, either. Many branches allow for digital borrowing so you don’t even need to make the trip over.

Clean Up and Prioritize

Yes, we know this one doesn’t sound like much fun – but it can nonetheless be very rewarding!

Take some time to go through the stuff in your home (safely!) and create a list of everything you’d like to donate or sell off. Now may likely not the time to pack it all up, of course, but you will be able to do so soon enough as you recover.

And if you are looking for tips or inspiration on the tidying front, you can find Marie Kondo in books or on Netflix.

Can We Speed This Post-Surgery Stuff Up?

Patience really is the best method of treatment when it comes to recovering fully from surgery. Trying to push yourself harder too quickly can result in strain, reinjury, and an even longer overall healing time.

We want you back and enjoying life at 100% as quickly as possible, but we will not risk your overall health to get there any sooner than it can. We might recommend advanced treatments such as laser therapy to help accelerate healing, but that does not mean we will recommend increased activity until we are assured you have reached the point to be cleared for it.

Please never feel uncomfortable asking questions about what to expect after surgery, and the best route to recovering from surgery. We’ll always be happy to provide you answers and ensure your recovery time is worth it.

Call us at (814) 472-2660 to reach our offices in either Ebensburg or Johnstown. You can also reach us electronically by filling out our online contact form.