exercise-1.5 year post op

[missjerilyn]

Im sure this has been discussed before but i thought i would try anyway. I am in fair shape, i have a thin frame and dont weigh all that much but would like to start a regular exercise routine to stay in shape. Because of the rods drilled to my spine im concerned about what i can and can not do. Sit ups seem like a no-no. So do weight lifting (even light ones). As well as vigeorous cardio routines. I thought about Yoga and Pilaties but alot of that is bending and moving in ways i know i should not. So does anyone know of what some safe and helpful exercises that would be appropriate for someone 1.5 year post op? Any help would be greately appreciated!!!!

thanks-Jerilyn

[brian86]

I think it would be best to ask your doctor what type of exercise would be safe for you. Each patient has different limitations after surgery.

personally i had a fusion of 8 of my vertabre and 7 months later i was able to play full contact high school lacrosse. I was able to do light running after 4 months. My doctor said the only only long term exercise limitations i have are no intense yoga, no diving in to pools, and no power weight lifting (no of which i was really interested in anyway).

[Mary Lou]

Jerilyn,

Depending on how far you are fused, you might not be able to do traditional sit-ups, however, my daughter has a long fusion and they had her doing "sit-ups" several months after surgery in physical therapy. Although she can't bend her back, they encouraged her to at least tighten her stomach muscles as though she were going to do a sit-up. We were told strong stomach muscles are helpful in supporting the back.

Mary Lou

[Gail]

Hi Miss Jerilyn,

Walk and walk and walk! For me, that is the most helpful.

Kindest Regards,
Gail