Your 'step count' can predict how well you recover from surgery

NPR | By Allison Aubrey

Published May 6, 2026 at 4:07 PM EDT

A new study finds an extra 1,000 steps per day is linked to a decreased risk of complications after surgery. The study suggests tracking steps is one way to monitor recovery and can be empowering.

Allison Aubrey

Allison Aubrey is a correspondent for NPR News, where her stories can be heard on Morning Edition and All Things Considered. She's also a contributor to the PBS NewsHour and is one of the hosts of NPR's Life Kit.

See stories by Allison Aubrey

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