Question:
Problems with Abdominal Exercising Post Op?

I've heard that there may be problems in working your abs after surgery. Since I am pre-op and really want to strengthen my abs, can anyone tell me if this is true or just a myth? If it is true, did u do any exercised pre-op? As dancer and hopefully teacher after the weight loss, it is vital that i have strong abs.    — kkernagis (posted on November 9, 2002)

November 9, 2002
I was instructed to wait 6 weeks before doing any abdominal exercises (I had RNY open). At that point I started doing crunches and gradually built up the repetitions. I also started doing sit-ups at 3 months but, my surgeon felt it was too soon so stopped until I was about 5 months post-up. I think the doctor's concern is the risk of a hernia from exercising too soon. Check with your doc about his post-op exercise program. By the way, I have never had a hernia.
   — LLinderman

November 9, 2002
Definitely check with your doctor before launching any type of abdominal work out. At 3 months out I thought it would be a good idea to join my boyfriend in learning Pilates. I am now sporting a lovely incisional hernia about the size of a softball! Down 93 lbs. but waitng to lose more weight before I have it taken care of so they can take some excess skin with it.
   — Anna S.

November 11, 2002
Pre-op I did LOTS of ab work in the pool(I'm a water exercise instructor) and crunches. It has really helped my recovery. As far as post-op I'm back to the pool and working on my form..which strengthens your core area (abs etc) but have not yet started any real ab work. I'm 8 weeks out on wednesday. The more you can do physically for yourself pre-op the better you are going to be post-op. Good luck
   — Deanna_K