Esophageal Myotomy

Recovering from Surgery: Activity Guidelines

Following surgery you can do what ever feels comfortable, including sexual activity. You cannot cause any serious damage by your activities. Nonetheless, do not drive until you have a full and free range of motion without pain. That will take at least a week.
Do not drive or do anything potentially dangerous, such as operating heavy machinery, while taking narcotic pain medication.
Although we encourage you to walk and go up stairs, do not overdo it. Gradually build up your stamina and strength. If you feel yourself becoming tired, stop.
Finally, do not lift anything heavy. What is heavy? Anything that causes discomfort when you attempt to lift it. Again, use your judgment, but 15 to 20 pounds should be the limit for most people.
Remember, pain is the body’s way of letting you know not to do something.
Your thought processes may take 24-96 hours to return to normal because of anesthesia. Do not make any important personal or business decisions during this time.
You can return to work when you feel comfortable that you can perform your job safely and at the level you and your employers expect. Usually this is a minimum of one week.
Most people find themselves easily fatigued during the second and even the third week after surgery. This is compounded by the degree to which your caloric and protein intakes are reduced. When you return to work do not overload your schedule.
Do not return to exercise or strenuous activity until your first follow-up visit in the office.