Walking at the hospital

Ok, just curious. I know they want us to walk and know it is quite important but how much should we be doing? How do we know not to overdo. You can tell I have never had surgery.....other than two c-sections. Just was curious about this aspect of it. Going in for pre-op this morning. It is getting more real.

Lisa 

Most likely, your nurse will tell you how far to go.  Mine had me walk out around the nurses station for my first lap.  After that I increased so that by the third time I was up, I was making a full lap of the floor.  Your body will tell you how much you can tolerate, but I found that once I got through the pain of getting up out of the bed, the walking part wasn't too bad.  If you've had C-sections, you can do this, they hurt worse.  Just keep in mind, as you already know, walking is vital for preventing clots.  It also helps alleviate the pain from the gas they blow into you.  Take care. Ellen

(((Lisa))) First, CONGRATULATIONS on your upcoming surgery!  The hospital staff encouraged me to walk as much as possible.  You will always feel better afterwards (not during).  It's so important to prevent blood clots that can kill you!  This is a very exciting time for you preparing for surgery.  I will be praying for you! Diane

Lisa -

One of the things I did was to "ask" to walk while I was in the hospital ... it kind of surprised the staff... LOL. I was walking several times a day at the hospital; going farther each time. Also remember to keep walking once you get home. At first, I think it's best to have someone walk with you. Your "head" may think you can walk farther than your body at first, but soon you'll be walking farther and farther ... as sure sign that you are getting stronger and stronger. You will find that the more you walk, the stronger you will get. As mentioned before, getting up to walk is harder than the actual walking.

It's great to hear that you are already thinking in terms of the things that you need to do to take care of yourself. I think that taking care of ourselves is what this journey is all about.

Wishing you all the best in your journey to a healthier you.

Your new friend,

Barb

I walked just up and down the hall I was on the first couple laps ( that afternoon after surgery ) by 2 am when I was wide awake,  I crused around the floor pulling my IV cart along with no problem. I would say I walked 3 hours total each day , spread out over the day.  When I got home I walked as much as possible the first few days, and it increased as the days went by. To add I had very little gas pain that some talk about so I think walking must help push all that stuff out  :) I would say , listen to the nurse/doctors do what you are told and you will do fine. take care

And while you are in the bed, move your legs as much as possible.  They are trying to prevent blood clots as well as it helps the 'ol gas!