Rehab help

[kodi]

Hi,
I think I need some suggestions. I'm a little over five weeks post surgery and have been walking daily ever since. I'm now up to 6 miles daily and plan to start mixing in some short jogs this coming week. I also am back to doing my normal stretching routine and core exercises. I notice that most, or a lot of you, have gone thru cardio rehab usually starting around six weeks post-surgery. I do not live where this is assessible and would like some ideas or suggestions what kinds of things you do or did while in rehab. I purchased a trainer for my bike and will start using that this week, but nothing that I do works the upper body. I'm not sure, but I think getting back to swimming might not be a good idea just yet.
So, can you wonderful people, that are so full of information and ideas help me out again?
Thanks
Mel

 

[EireCara]

Best Wishes

Best Wishes

Sorry Mel I cant help you with that, just wanted to wish you continued success with your recovery. 8)

 

[Nan]

Gee Mel, sounds like you are doing really well on your on cardiac rehab program! Good for you!

I don't know that I can be of much help, but I can tell you the types of upper body exercises we did in rehab. But please bear in mind that this was with supervision. I would certainly check with your doc and let him/her know what you are planning on doing if you are going to proceed with upper body stuff.

Remember, your sternum is probably not yet totally healed. You don't want to cause a problem.

We did gentle low weight arm work....bicep and triceps. Also worked with a machine where you had your arms bent at the elbows, forearm perpendicular to the floor and pushed the machine in toward the center of your chest. Also a machine where you pulled down against the weights. All very, very gentle.

Really most of the time was spent doing cardiovascular on the treadmill and the bike.

Oh yes, also leg presses.

I agree, I don't think swimming is a good idea quite yet.

Good luck.

 

[catwoman]

Mel:

Don't know if this is what you're looking for, but you can try lifting weights that are right in your pantry -- cans of veggies, soups, etc.
If you have any with snap lids, you can measure out sand, weigh it and fill the can with the sand and snap the lid on.
Lift above your head and out to the sides.

That's one thing I've learned in Weight Watchers. Of course, I don't do these exercises, but... they are supposed to be good for developing muscle mass and bone density in the arms.

And it doesn't cost as much as co-pays or club memberships do.

 

[Phyllis]

Dick swam back stroke around 9-10 weeks. I think the walking and the bike are the best exercise you can do right now. I think 6 miles daily and starting on the bike trainer at 5 weeks out puts you way ahead of most people- keep up the good work!

 

[Jkm7]

My surgeon knew we were going on a cruise when I was 11 weeks post op and he was very definite that he did not want me to swim at that point. He allowed me to go in the ocean/pool as my wound was totally healed but that was it.......no swimming.

Sounds like you are doing wonderful. Keep it up but check with your doctor for what is best for you.

 

[AlonnolA]

Mel -

I also walk about an hour a day, which I figure is 4-5 miles. I just came back from my first cardiac rehab session today (I'm about a week behind you). They had a machine that was like bicycle pedals except they had hand grips. You turn them and can set the tension. Maybe you can figure out a way to use your excercise bike?

 

[Aussie Chris]

Hey Kodi,
Sounds like you are doing great already. I am 3 1/2 weeks out and I can only do 1.2 km twice a day. I am itching to do more but it brings on slight pain in chest and the dreaded tiredness.

I start rehab this Friday so will give you an idea of what they recommend.

Chris

 

[kodi]

Thanks all for your comments. They all help. I just got my trainer set up and will probably start using it tomorrow. I know the walking has been a big help but for me it's really boring, even using my IPOD. Biking will at least give me a break from it.
Some of my family and friends think I overdo it but I don't think so. I haven't done anything that has made me hurt or caused any pain, other than in the incision. I just happen to be stubborn, persistant and goal oriented.
Chris, anxious to see what kind of program they put you on.
Any more suggestions and ideas will be appreciated from everyone.
Mel

 

[Aussie Chris]

First week at rehab is mostly taken up with the interview but the physio did put me on some light arm weight workouts, push ups leaning against a wall, squats, and leg raising while lying down. All really light stuff.

Next week she should come back with a gym routine that I can work through safely. I am hoping to find that more rewarding.

Cheers,

Chris