Question:
How long after surgery before you can do yard work?

Great answers to my question but I live in New England. So far it has not snowed. But I am set for Jan I know I will not be able at least the 1st 2 weeks but about after that. Will I be able to shovel the snow?    — Athinnermom (posted on November 22, 2009)

November 22, 2009
That would be something to talk with your doc about. Since he lives in the same area of the country as you (I am guessing), then he will know. I would say it would be at least a few weeks before you will be able to something strenuous like that. You don't want to risk any type of rip or herniation after your surgery.
   — Dawn A.

November 22, 2009
My doctor told me I can't lift more than 15 lbs for six weeks -- if it's heavier than a gallon of milk don't lift it. Janell
   — Janell C.

November 22, 2009
Hey Paulette.... no, you won't be able to shovel the snow. Nor can you lift the catboxes to clean them (if you have cats <grin>). Janelle told you right... except that my surgeon was even MORE strict...he wouldn't let us lift more than TEN pounds for 6 weeks. And although we were strongly encouraged to walk, walk, walk....DAILY, and for upwards of an hour all total...we were not allowed to work out at the gym doing anything other than cardio (stationary bike, treadmill, elliptical, stair-climber) for 3 months. After 3 months we could begin weight training to tone and firm up whatever consents to be firmed up - which, unfortunately for me, is not a whole heck of a lot!!
   — Erica Alikchihoo

November 22, 2009
I live further north than you do so your snow is wetter and heavier than mine. I agree you should speak with your surgeon about what you can and cannot do. I'm surprised it wasn't discussed in your physical therapy class...it was in mine. Anyway I was told NO heavy lifting until 6 weeks post op and I had RNY like you are having. You definately don't want to lift anything heavy early on because of the potential to tear open your wounds and do damage to your surgery sites.
   — Caribou ME

November 23, 2009
I made the mistake of vacuming my floor, which I didn't think was a problem because I wasn't lifting anything, one week after surgery and it made me hurt real bad. I ended up spending the next 3 to 4 weeks not doing a whole lot of anything because I made myself so sore from vacuming too soon. When you have laproscopic surgery you feel pretty good after a week or so, or at least I do, I've had it twice now, and both times I started doing too much too soon and made myself very sore and the doctors had to remind me even though it may not feel like it you still just had major surgery and you have to give your body time to heal. By six weeks out though you will feel great and be ready to challenge the world again. I hope your surgery goes great and you have great success.
   — Lisa von Wallmenich