"The earliest phase involves multiple modalities (massage, heat, TENS, MENS, ultrasound, etc.) and aggressive range of motion exercises supervised by a physical therapist, to relieve discomfort and to promote better sleep and flexibility. The goal of physical therapy is to prepare the patient for the required, gym-based exercise program. This starts with stretching and mild muscular toning. Then, the program must expand to include muscular conditioning and strengthening, ideally under the supervision of a credentialed exercise physiologist. ``Body sculpture'' classes are ideal. Aerobics are not recommended until the patient has fully recovered."

I second that! Just, depending on how far you are along in your recovery, you might want to be careful with the intensity. But, toning exercises are also very important. Pilates is another good option.

Exercise is very important, but it is also possible to overdo it and end up much worse off medically. So, please take it at a careful pace even if you feel you can push harder. Think about staying with it long-term. And be sure to read the above comment about aerobic activity.

Please check out the rest of the rehab information, including the PT prescription, at the link above (Dr. B's guidelines).
Happy moving!

Cheryl
healthcare consumer

Have you done a search for exercise?

I don't know how to cut & paste forums, but I just did a search using the word exercise, in Medical Questions for Entire Message and found 200 responses.

There have been some good discussions regarding types of exercise.

I too can't wait to begin exercising - but I've just been too tired since I started back to work.

For me, though I have enjoyed stretching, and walking - NOT running that is too extensive.

If I had access to a pool, I would love to swim and as others said it is great for your joints.

So I guess it depends on what your symptoms were and where you are in the recovery cycle.

It wasn't until I was symptom free that I could once again train cardio or lift weights.

Swimming wasn't an option when I had the catheter but I now enjoy it whenever I can fit it into my schedule!