"Also, distraction is key... Netflix binges, podcasts, anything that keeps your mind off obsessing over symptoms really helps."
Couldn't agree more with this. When I had my extraction and implant done, I was convinced I'd be stuck in bed for weeks—but honestly, after the first couple of days, things improved pretty quickly. Salt water rinses were a lifesaver for me too, but I also found ice packs surprisingly helpful. Just wrapped one in a towel and held it gently against my cheek every now and then—really helped with swelling and discomfort.
One thing I'd add though: don't underestimate rest. It's tempting to jump back into your usual routine once you start feeling better, but giving yourself permission to slow down can make a huge difference in healing. And yeah, definitely avoid the Google rabbit hole... been there, done that, not worth it.
You're probably doing way better than you think. Just trust your body and give it some time.
Totally relate to the anxiety around recovery—I was a nervous wreck before my implant. Honestly, distraction helped, but I found gentle walks outside even better than Netflix binges. Fresh air somehow calmed my nerves more than anything indoors. Agree 100% about rest though:
"don't underestimate rest. It's tempting to jump back into your usual routine..."
I rushed back to work too soon and regretted it big time. Lesson learned the hard way... slow and steady really does win this race.
Interesting to hear your take—I totally get the value of rest, but honestly, for me, getting back into a gentle routine sooner rather than later helped ease my anxiety. I took a few extra days off initially, thinking rest was key, but found myself just sitting around stressing more. Once I started doing small, low-pressure tasks (like cooking easy meals or sorting through emails), I felt way less anxious. Guess everyone's different... balance is probably the trickiest part of recovery.
"Once I started doing small, low-pressure tasks (like cooking easy meals or sorting through emails), I felt way less anxious."
Totally relate to this. After my implant surgery, I initially thought I'd just binge-watch shows and relax, but honestly, that made me feel more restless and anxious. Doing simple things—like watering plants or organizing my desk—really helped distract me from obsessing over every little ache or twinge. You're right though, balance is tricky... it's about finding that sweet spot between rest and gentle activity without pushing yourself too hard.
Totally relate to this. After my implant surgery, I initially thought I'd just binge-watch shows and relax, but honestly, that made me feel more restless and anxious.
Same here—after my son's extraction, I thought keeping him still and entertained would be best, but he got restless pretty quickly. Turns out small activities, like sorting his Lego pieces or drawing, helped way more than just sitting around. Finding that balance is definitely tricky...