Is It Normal To Feel Weak After A Hospital Stay?

No one likes the idea of a stint in hospital. There may be an urgent need to prevent an emerging health problem or to help you recover after an injury. People go into hospital for many different reasons, but often for one kind of surgery or another. After a hospital stay it’s normal to feel weak: the body needs time to recuperate after a stressful ordeal.

Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens, NY, helps people who are on the mend after a hospital stay but who may need further assistance for their weakness. After treatment in hospital, we tailor any rehabilitation and restorative therapies that may be required to the individual needs of the patient.

We also provide education and emotional support to aid the healing process. Our team of friendly therapists have heaps of experience in assessing and responding to patient needs.

Why Are My Body and Legs So Weak After My Hospital Stay?

It is no surprise that you feel your legs to be weak. This is largely because you have not been using them to walk about, climb stairs or bend down. If you don’t use your arms or legs for a while the muscles in them atrophy and weaken. It is also possible that you have been put on medication which makes you feel drowsy and inactive.

When might you recover your strength?

How long it takes to recover will depend on many factors, including your overall health condition before going to hospital. It will depend on the nature of treatment you received in hospital. It will depend to some extent on your mental state and outlook. And it will depend on the quality of treatment and rehabilitation you get after your stay in hospital.

Keep well hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking.

Regain your strength

After a serious illness or surgery it is perfectly natural to feel weak. You may have been forced to lie in bed for many days. This alone would mean that your muscles have reduced in size and efficiency. You will need to recover your posture, balance and self-esteem – and physical therapy can help with that. Physical therapists ensure that you exercise safely and that you don’t overdo things since you are weak after a hospital stay.

Diet will be another factor in your recovery. Eating a healthy diet low in bad cholesterol and high in natural fibers and vitamins can speed up your recovery. Healthy food, combined with appropriate exercise, helps you to build up your strength after a period of enforced idleness.

Recovery after your stay in hospital is also affected by your state of mind. If you have the support or family members, friends or rehab staff, your recovery path will be easier. Anything you do to avoid stress and anxiety can help you get back to normal.

For the healing process and speedy recovery, it is also advisable to take part in fun and group activities to keep your moods up.

This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.