Is It Safe to Engage in Cardio After Back Stitches?
I’m a 36-year-old male who recently underwent a procedure to remove a cyst from my back last Monday. The cyst was situated near my serratus posterior superior muscle, approximately two inches below my trapezius and one inch to the left of my spine, resulting in a three-inch incision. Following the surgery, I received clear instructions to avoid activities like weight lifting, heavy lifting, and any stretching movements involving my back or arms. This leads me to my question: Am I permitted to perform cardiovascular exercises such as running, using the stairmaster, or indoor cycling?
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 9:20:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
After a recent surgical procedure, it’s crucial to prioritize your healing while considering safe ways to stay active. Cardiovascular exercises can potentially be beneficial, but they need to be approached with caution given your recent surgery.
Key Points:
- Careful Progression: Engaging in cardio exercises may be safe depending on your healing stage, but you must avoid putting strain on your back and incision area.
- Listen to Your Body: Be attentive to any discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms while exercising.
Explanation:
The primary concern following a surgery, especially one involving an incision near the back, is the risk of stretching the incision or straining the muscles involved, particularly if the activities increase your heart rate too much or involve too much movement of the upper body.
Your surgeon provided specific advice to refrain from weight and heavy lifting, which is primarily to protect the healing area. For cardiovascular activities like running or cycling, it's essential to ensure they don't compromise your recovery.
Next Steps:
- Start Slowly: If you choose to engage in cardio, consider low-impact exercises first. Walking or gentle cycling can be good alternatives that allow movement without significant strain.
- Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to how your body responds during and after exercise. If you experience any pain at the incision site or unusual discomfort, stop immediately.
- Consult for Guidance: If you have any doubts about the appropriateness of specific cardio activities, reaching out for personalized advice from your healthcare provider is a good option, especially if you have not received specific clearance on cardiovascular activities.
Start gradually and prioritize your recovery to ensure that you can return to your regular exercise routine safely.
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