Afraid to go back to the gym

[halleyg]

It's 8 weeks post op for me, and I got the go-ahead to get back on the treadmill from my cardiologist two weeks ago. But, I've yet to go back. Last year I started having symptoms after my workouts, and it took months to figure out it was my MVP. Stopped working out, had repair in January, went back to the gym about 10-12 weeks post-op, still having symptoms but kept ignoring them until I couldn't anymore. Then found out my repair didn't take and had the replacement. So now I am "fixed" but I am afraid to go back to the gym. Guess I'm afraid I'll have symptoms again and freak out or something.. I really do want to get back but it feels almost like a phobia at this point. I have to really push myself just to go walking in my neighborhood. Just wondering if anyone else had this problem or fear after OHS.

 

[WayneGM]

While not exactly the same thing (I only had one OHS), after experiencing setbacks from over doing it post-op, I became overly protective. Perhaps this is why I'm always expressing caution to those in their first few months of post-op. I suppose there's some phobia after experiencing setbacks because you know how fragile your body can be despite feeling good. I've gotten over it now, and do eveything that I used to. As they say, you've got to get back up on that horse......but take it easy at first.

Good luck and best wishes.

 

[jds]

Get back in the habit

Get back in the habit

Hello -

It's important to establish good habits as soon as possible. I would recommend going back to the gym if only to walk on the treadmill or ride slowly on the stationary bike. Set it up for 3-4 times a week - ideally with someone else as well.

If there is a problem with this repair, it will be better to find out sooner than later. If you don't overdo it, there is little chance that casual workouts will damage your heart.

Hold off on weight-lifting anything heavy, though. that can jack up your BP pretty significantly.

John

 

[JimL]

I think cardiac rehab is designed for just such concerns as you have. How much should I do so that I don't do too much or too little? The cardiac rehab nurses have the answer.

 

[SumoRunner]

I second the rehab thing. Ask your cardiologist about a cardiac rehab program in your area. Then you can get back into it slowly and most importantly under supervision of cardiac aware staff.

 

[tommy]

Sold on Rehab

Sold on Rehab

I'll pile on the rehab suggestion. The nurses brought me along slowly and monitored me all the way. I went from 2 MPH at zero slope on the treadmill to 4 MPH at 4% slope in 12 weeks. Blood pressure and pulse rates were taken before and after. I was never allowed to leave until vitals both settled down into acceptable ranges.

 

[temp69]

yes, rehab

yes, rehab

actually got me in the habit of going to gym three times a week. now i go three or four times, play tennis, make out with girls, the works, and i feel like i'm 20 again. okay maybe 30. but go for it -- under supervision.

the funny thing is...well check out my post today...

 

[67walkon]

Just go and take it easy. I went at 6 weeks, did some very light weights and was very encouraged.

At 8 weeks, you're pretty good to go. Listen to your body, build up slowly, but don't fear that the repair will break or anything.

 

[PhillipCinci]

just started rehab last Friday...

just started rehab last Friday...

I was nervous of over doing it as well. It will be 5 weeks on Tues. since my surgery and Cardiac rehab seems to be the answer for me. My surgeon has me limited to lower body only til 2 months post surgery. For the first 4-6 (M, W, F) weeks will be on a portable monitor with the RNs watching over...check the BP before during and after. Helps me push myself without the fear of 'blowing a valve'. I think it will help me move forward faster. It may help you.
Phil

 

[Kandice]

Cardiac Rehab

Cardiac Rehab

I had surgery 3 1/2 weeks ago ,, my first and hopefully my only mitral valve repair. Sorry to hear you have had such a difficult time. I don't blame you for your reluctance.

I am planning to start cardiac rehab November 16th, but I am currently walking. I find myself being nervous. I suppose this is normal.
I am going to start using a polar heart monitor and then I can keep track of my heart rate. Maybe that would make you feel more confident by using one. Check it out. It can be used even when you aren't in rehab just to train with.

Hang in there, thank God for this site and the wonderful support .

Kandice

 

[Blanche]

Go for Cardiac Rehab..it's worth it.

Go for Cardiac Rehab..it's worth it.

Halley:
Seventeen years after his valve replacement my husband still tells folks that the best thing he could have done was to go to cardiac rehab. Back then, we had to fight with the doctor to sign for cardiac rehab. They said it was for people who had a heart attach not just valve surgery!!!!Imagine that.

Please remember, it's not just the exercise that is important. At cardiac rehab you will have trained, medical professionals teaching you and monitoring you as you progress. Al says that one of the most important phases of rehab was spending time with other who had similar problems with their hearts. Until that time, he told me he felt so alone.

You can accomplish so much more when you know that you are safe.

Blanche

 

[Mary]

I second Blanche's recommendation and those of the others who suggest cardiac rehab.
You will be carefully monitored, and I think you will gradually lose your reluctance to go back.

 

[Jepskie]

It's 8 weeks post op for me, and I got the go-ahead to get back on the treadmill from my cardiologist two weeks ago. But, I've yet to go back. Last year I started having symptoms after my workouts, and it took months to figure out it was my MVP. Stopped working out, had repair in January, went back to the gym about 10-12 weeks post-op, still having symptoms but kept ignoring them until I couldn't anymore. Then found out my repair didn't take and had the replacement. So now I am "fixed" but I am afraid to go back to the gym. Guess I'm afraid I'll have symptoms again and freak out or something.. I really do want to get back but it feels almost like a phobia at this point. I have to really push myself just to go walking in my neighborhood. Just wondering if anyone else had this problem or fear after OHS.

Hi Halley!

By all means take your sweet time. Go back to the gym when your body is really ready and your mind is set into getting back in shape. Good Luck!

 

[NewValveNY]

Heart Rate Monitor

Heart Rate Monitor

Halley,
You might find that a heart rate monitor such as a Polar can help you monitor and increase the benefit from your workouts. Your ambivalence is certainly understandable, but a rehab program or hiring a personal trainer for some sessions may be a good way to confidently re-enter the world of physical fitness. Good luck with your health and fitness!
Allan