Accidental gardening injury after surgery

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Hello,

I had  a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy surgery just over six weeks ago. My recovery was going remarkably well. Between 4 -5 weeks I was not requiring any pain killers, body movement was good and bowel movement regular I had to be careful not to stretch too far or pull anything. Sometimes just opening the fridge  and dishwasher doors was not possible. I did and still do get very tired. However, I felt that I was ready and able to drive, but I didn't because I was waiting for the six week period. However, I did foolishly do some gardening. My husband was digging in new plants and I just thought that I would tidy up the daffodil leaves by folding them down. Must have spent about thirty minutes doing this activity . I was crouched down and bent over, I was not experiencing any discomfort or pain. However, the next day I felt dreadful, as well as being tired my movement was restricted. I felt I was back to week one after surgery. I have been taking painkillers regularly again. I assumed that I had strained the muscles. I spoke to one of the colorectal nurses who thought the same.and asked me to phone again later in the week but as the pain killers masked the pain I didn't call back Initially I had  pain all around my waistline but now it has changed to  an area just up and left of my belly button that seems to be at the centre of my problem  and it really hurts when pressed. Has anyone else done something similar to me?  I think I need to have an examination, but do I go to my own doctor or back to hospital? As it is the weekend not sure who to contact for help and guidance? has anyone else been as stupid as me?

  • Oh your not stupid at all . You have tried really , really hard and it’s the wee things that catch us off guard . Although a benign activity it was sustained for thirty minutes and that’s enough to creat inflammation in a muscle group especially ones that are in recovery . I am no expert but previously an OT who lives with a musculoskeletal issue so spend a lot of time recovering from doing activities I know are at the outer limits of my abilities. 

    I guess you are worried that you have damaged something in some way and purely to put your mind at rest I would get checked out .You want to ensure the inflammatory reaction is not causing issues etc .  Your Gp will have seen a lot of people post surgery but if you can get a surgeon to cast an eye over it even better . 
    You can phone the NHS 111 if you live in England . They will maybe be able to get you seen . Reassurance is everything in recovery and I always say to err on the side of caution .

    Take care ,

    Court 

    Helpline Number 0808 808 0000

  • Hello Court,

    Many thanks for your sympathetic reply, I was silly and feeling guilty for the consequences. I will get it checked out but the reluctance is the guilt of it being a self inflicted injury. I very much appreciate your advice and it is reassurance that I seek.

    Thank you

     Catsski

  • Hello again Court,

     I followed your advice and called 111, they suggested that I went to A& E. From that visit I had a cat scan and pleased to say no damage to vital organs and now recovering from trauma caused. That reassurance makes all the difference. Once again , thank you

     Catsski

  • Great news 

    You can recover with peace of mind now ! Definitely better to get checked out to be sure . 
    Take care ,

    Court 

    Helpline Number 0808 808 0000