Patient Education Colorectal Cancer: Your Care and Recovery | Page 35

Activity
• You should walk as part of your recovery. Gradually increase your
walking distance, but stop before you think you’ve reached your limit —
don’t overdo it. If you feel fine the next day, increase the distance a little
bit.
• You may use the stairs, if permitted. Be sure to have someone with you
the first time you go up the stairs.
• Do not lift more than about 10 pounds for the first 6 weeks after your
surgery. A gallon of milk weighs about 10 pounds.
• Most people are able to return to work 4 to 6 weeks after they go home.

Driving
• Do not drive for 4 weeks after your surgery or for the length of time your
surgeon tells you. Check with your surgeon about this at your follow-up
appointment.
• Do not drive while taking prescription pain medication.

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