During the first few weeks after surgery, you need to do things that don't use your arms too much. Using your upper body tires you faster. It can also cause pain around your incision and in your chest. And it can slow the healing of the muscle and bones at the incision site. Here are some ideas of things you can do around your home and some you should not do for the first few weeks.
Household chores you can do
As you feel stronger, it's okay to do light household chores such as:
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Watering small plants.
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Light repairs.
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Setting the table.
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Washing dishes.
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Preparing simple meals.
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Baking.
Household chores to avoid
Try not to raise your arms above your shoulders. And don't do things that make you push or pull with your upper body, such as:
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Vacuuming, sweeping, or scrubbing.
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Changing sheets on the bed.
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Moving trash cans or heavy furniture.
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Carrying filled laundry baskets, baggage, or anything weighing more than 5 pounds.
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Gardening.
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Shoveling snow or using a snow blower.
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Online Medical Reviewer: Mary Mancini MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Terri Koson DNP RN ACNP
Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
