working out after surgery

[D'Antony]

Hey y'all.
I'm getting ready to have bunion surgery in a couple of days (same day surgery, thank goodness). My doc. told me not to exercise ( no cardio/walking/aerobics/leg training) for almost a month. I have really gotten back into my fitness routine and really hate to stop just to re-start again. I want to keep my motivation for working out going. The good news is that I can work on my upper body. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can work on my legs/lower body until my foot heals (full recovery takes about a month). I am a member of a gym. I also have a some equipment at home: resistance cords, dummbells (from 5lbs-25lbs), and a bench with leg extension/leg curl attatchment. Your suggestions would greatly be appreciated. Thanks.

I would listen to your doctor. You don't want to mess things up and give yourself a setback. Not sure what your surgery entails but he will probably send you to physical therapy. Once there you can find out which exercises you can perform.

[Octagon]

Ask your doc about swimming. I would think you'd be cleared for swimming within a few days, a week at most.

[Octagon]

Oh, and Ironman is absolutely right. A little impatience post-surgery can sideline you for a loooooooooong time so be smart.

[D'Antony]

Yeah, you're right. I just don't want to stay on track. I fall off the fitness wagon so easy and have done it so many times. But now, the older I am (approaching my mid-30's) the more I realize that I need to do this so i can grow older and look and feel younger.

By the way, the surgery entails shaving extra bone growth in the bunion area. Afterwards, he's going to reposition my big toe.
And I will not have to go through any physical therapy. But I was told NOT to do any type of lower body exercise for awhile. I was hoping I could work around it. But I will listen to the advice of you guys AND especially my doctor. Thanks again guys.

D.