Working out after knee surgery

[Eeyores Butterfly]

I am having a plica band removed in my knee on the 6th and need some workout ideas that don't involve the legs! I will be on crutches 3-5 days, will start physical therapy after about 4 days, and will be completely healed in about 4 weeks probably.

I can't think of one single cardiac exercise I can do that doesn't require the use of my legs. I have come to love Activity Points and want to keep up with the activity. If I get out of he habit, I know it'll be hard to get back into it. Help!

 

[Evita_W]

My dad had knee surgery many years ago and I am trying to think what he did to be active while recovering.....

Maybe you can do a bicycle type exercise with your hands. It works your arms and it get the blood pumping. I don't know if that makes sense, but it might work.

Or...rock out in your bed or a chair! Again, it keeps the blood pumping..

Don't know if that helps, but good luck...I know everything will be just fine!

 

[tiggerlover]

I would check with your doctor to see if you can do any exercises in the pool. The pool makes any exercise low-impact and although I didn't have knee surgery I had physical therapy on my knees for four months and the pool was one place I could exercise. I also was allowed to use the recumbent bike, slowly at first, gradually building myself up. Your doctor should be able to give you the best tips for what will work for your type of surgery.

Good luck.

 

[Eeyores Butterfly]

I know the pool is out because I cannot immerse it for 3 or 4 days after surgery due to the bandages.

 

[bubba73]

I had the same surgery done last year so I understand what you are going through. First of all, take a couple of days to get over the medication. Now, I was lucky. I had my surgery done on a Friday and I was back to work on Monday. I wasn't at full speed but I was there. Next, be careful. I did have an episode that I won't go into the whole story because it isn't pretty but I tore some scar tissue in my knee and it became immobile.

As far as being active goes, I know you want to keep your heart rate up and that's great. I commend you for that. I actually got fat and sassy and took a lot of time out from the gym. I wish I had never done that. But as far as your activity goes, you know how everyone will dance to some music that they like while they are in the car. Well, put some music on at home and move. You don't have to be on your feet to do that. I actually dance better when I am not standing up. Try to do a lot of arm movements, seated twists, curls, shoulder raises, etc. Just do something to keep the heart rate up and you will win the battle.

Hope that helps and good luck. I pray that you will have a speedy recovery!

Bryan