Question:
I am 2 weeks post op and just recently began walking

I feel like a failure....I haven't started walking until today and tomorrow I will be 2 weeks post op. While I was in the hospital I walked a few times. When I got home I was so lethargic and was so absent minded that I just didn't get up and walk! I am now freaking out and am worried about getting or having a blood clot :( I am now walking 2x a day for 15 min each walk. I read the memorial page and read how some people died of embolisms a few weeks after their surgery. I am still not out of the woods and am very scared....I don't have a fever or anything. Just a bit of pain here and there but nothing major. Will I be okay??? Sorry for seeming so freaked out!    — Paulette M. (posted on August 7, 2002)

August 6, 2002
Two weeks post op you will still have some pain. Blood clots happen. All that you can do is minimize your risk. Exercise helps do that. Since you cannot go back and do the last two weeks over and you are still here, just relax and do better from here out.<p>Blood clots are not the only reason to exercise. Moving will help you heal, help you burn calories, help you feel more in control, make you stronger, replace some of the old stress/depression/boredom eating with a healthier habit, and give you a chance to do something that is only for you. I have gone from thinking of exercise as a chore to feeling really deprived if anything in my life keeps me from going to the pool. I know, I know "fat chance!" But it is true. At 11 months post op and more than 130 pounds lighter, I credit exercise--water aerobics for me--with much of my success.
   — phoebe

August 6, 2002
I agree completely with Phoebe. Also, exercise helps to clear the anestheisa from your body, and increases the amount of oxygen to your tissues...therefore helping to get rid of the lethargic feeling. When you say you are not walking....are you not getting around the house?? Going to the bathroom?? Going to the kitchen?? Answering the door?? Just the normal movement around the home will prevent the blood clots. IF you were lying in bed all of the time and people were bringing your meals to you, i would be more concerend about the blood clots factor and suggest that you contact your doc and discuss a way to prevent them.
   — Vicki L.

August 8, 2002
hi there, thanks you guys for your feedback. I have been walking in my apt. doing the regular things. Today I went to the beach and walked a lot :) I appreciate your comments and thanks again!!!
   — Paulette M.