As Anglika implies, it's not used transitively.The patient was advised to go to the seaside to pick up his health.
Do native speakers use 'pick up' to mean 'regain'?
Thank you in advance.
The phrase "to pick up" as it is described here is not an American expression.
She's gone to the airport to pick up her sister. -- Normal
He went to the store to pick up some milk. -- Normal
The pace is starting to pick up. -- Get faster (normal)
Here's a little pick-me-up. -- Something to make you feel better (normal)
He's gone to the shore to pick up. -- I'd be saying "Pick up what? Pick up who?"
I like learning these differences.