Stitches are one of the most common and secure ways to close a wound on the skin after Mohs surgery , excision , or other skin surgical procedure. An important thing to think about after you have received these stitches is when you can resume your normal routine. Here are a few pointers when it comes to working out, stretching, and other strenuous activities. If your surgery is on the face or upper body, light activity like walking is not considered to be detrimental to the healing process.
However, Dr. Mamelak advises that patients avoid vigorous activity and heavy lifting. Patient should not intentionally get their heart rate up for at least 1 week after surgery. If the surgery was performed on the lower extremity, it is recommended to keep the limb elevated as much as possible, using an ottoman or extra chair when sitting.
This keeps pressure over the wound and allows for optimal healing. Having said this, Dr. Mamelak tells his elderly patients not to be too sedentary after surgery. Regular walking or light biking is often acceptable. This can lead to improper healing and potential infection. Skin surgeries may seem small, but they are still surgery. Time after stitches should be a restful and relaxing one.
As relaxing as yoga can be for the body and mind, stretching can pull the skin extremely taught and hence place unwelcome strain on stitches and surgical wounds. This is even more so when the skin is already being stretched to close and repair the skin.
Even light stretching can place unwanted pressure on a surgical wound that can tug on stitches. Yoga serves as a versatile tool that extends beyond physical fitness, offering a pathway for spiritual growth and self-exploration.
