What does 'restrict' imply in a medical context?

In a medical context, 'restrict' implies limiting or confining something, such as movement, fluid intake, or dietary options. This term is often used when referring to interventions that are designed to control certain behaviors or conditions, like restricting the intake of specific nutrients for patients with certain health conditions (e.g., diabetes or heart disease) or limiting physical activity after surgery to promote healing. Understanding this term is crucial for both healthcare professionals and patients, as restrictions are often necessary components of treatment plans to ensure safety, manage symptoms, and facilitate recovery.