Recovering from surgery or an injury is a challenge any time of the year, but doing it during the holidays adds a whole new level of challenge. While others are caught up in celebrations, travel, and traditions, you might be navigating pain, mobility limitations, fatigue, or a strict recovery plan. It’s easy to feel discouraged or left out.
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, we want you to hear this: you can absolutely enjoy the holiday season while staying on track with your healing. With a little planning and a few PT-approved strategies, your holidays can be both meaningful and recovery-friendly.
Here are our best holiday recovery tips for patients healing from surgery or injury – whether you’re in Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, or anywhere throughout the Red River Valley.
1. Plan Ahead – and Don’t Be Afraid to Modify
Holiday routines can be unpredictable, but your body needs consistency when recovering. Before the celebrations begin, take a moment to:
- Review your restrictions (lifting, weight-bearing, twisting, bending).
- Plan around your therapy schedule so you don’t accidentally skip crucial sessions.
- Let hosts or family know your needs (extra pillows, a quiet resting spot, seating options, help carrying things, etc.)
- Pack your essentials (ice packs, medication, supportive shoes, braces).
A little prep goes a long way in preventing setbacks and helping you feel confident going into holiday gatherings.
2. Prioritize Your Home Exercise Program (HEP)
Your home exercises are one of the biggest drivers of recovery, especially around the holidays when schedules get tight. To stay consistent during the holiday season:
- Pair exercises with daily routines (after breakfast, before bed).
- Break them into shorter sessions if your energy is low.
- Keep equipment visible and accessible.
- Use phone reminders to stay on track.
Even if you’re traveling within the Fargo–Moorhead area or further afield, most exercises can be done with minimal space and no equipment.
3. Don’t Skip Rest – Your Body Needs It
Holiday activities can be surprisingly taxing on your body: shopping, cooking, hosting, traveling, late nights, etc. Make rest a part of your recovery plan:
- Take stretch and rest breaks every hour during long events.
- Choose supportive chairs rather than soft couches that strain your spine.
- Head home early if your body feels overloaded.
Rest isn’t a setback, it’s one of the most important tools you have during your recovery.
4. Keep Your Body Moving
Movement doesn’t have to mean a workout. After surgery or injury, gently, frequent movement is the goal.Try adding in:
- 5–10 minute indoor walks
- Gentle stretching
- Ankle pumps, knee bends, shoulder rolls
- Changing positions every 45–60 minutes
Movement is medicine. In a Fargo winter, when it’s tempting to hunker down, movement becomes even more important for managing stiffness and pain.
5. Protect Yourself From Slippery Conditions
Winter in Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead means icy sidewalks and snowy driveways which are prime conditions for a fall. Keep yourself safe by:
- Wear shoes with solid traction.
- Use a cane, walker, or handrail if you need it
- Salt or sand your driveway/sidewalk before stepping out.
- Ask someone to carry bags so you can focus on stability.
Preventing a fall is one of the most important things you can do for your recovery.
6. Know When to Check In With Your PT
Reach out to your physical therapist if you notice:
- Increased swelling
- New pain that doesn’t settle
- Difficulty completing your exercises
- Concerns about your range of motion
- Trouble sleeping due to pain
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, ND, we take pride in personalized, attentive care that supports you through every stage of recovery – from post-surgical rehab to return-to-life mobility. We’ll help you adjust your exercises, calm symptoms, and keep your recovery moving in the right direction.
For more insight into what makes post-surgical care at Bodyworks different, explore our related blog: Why Choose Bodyworks for Your Post-Surgical Therapy?
We accept a wide range of major insurance plans including: Sanford, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, Medica, Cigna, Worker’s Compensation, and more. Not sure about your benefits? Call us anytime at (701) 893-2639. Our team will verify coverage and help you understand your options.
You Deserve a Healing, Hopeful Holiday Season
Recovering during the holidays requires patience and adaptability, but you still deserve joy, comfort, and peace. With the right strategies, you can protect your healing journey while staying connected to the people and traditions you love.
If you need guidance, reassurance, or help adjusting your plan, Bodyworks Physical Therapy is here for you. Request an appointment today and stay strong, safe, and supported this holiday season.