how long before I can do some yoga!?

Posted , 3 users are following.

Hi all,

Is there anyone else out there who has had surgery and is into yoga? I am 6 weeks post surgery (unilateral hellux valgus correction, 2 screws, 1 staple) and have got rid of the shoe and crutches (yay!) I am doing the recommended routine to get the big toe moving. I reckon I will be able to try some yoga (at home first with DVD) in about 6 weeks if things go well. Any experiences to share? Has anyone been back to the gym, is the recumbent bike OK or does that aggravate the swelling? Thoughts welcome, all the best with your recoveries everyone! 

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Posted

    Caroline, it took me 4 months before I could get back into Pilates and Yoga. The difficulty was the lack of toe movement of course and pain when it was flexed. So anyhing involving the plank or balance for that matter was impractical, I was told 3 months by my consultant but four was the time I felt OK. Im now at 5 months and though I can feel the toe its not a problem, I think Yoga is a good way to help get the toe to its maximum flexibility.  Kevin
    • Posted

      Hi Kevin,

      Thank you so much, that is so helpful. It's good to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel! Thanks again and have a great Sunday. Best wishes,

      Caroline

  • Posted

    I would think that yoga would be a great thing to do for the rest of your body while you're having to lay off your usual exercise routine.  Have you done yoga in the past? A class or tape might not be ideal because it would tempt you to do things you shouldn't.  But there's nothing stopping you from rolling out a mat at home and exploring what kind of stretches for your back, hips, shoulders, and the other leg you can do that don't bother your healing foot.  Of course, I'm just preparing to have my foot done, so people who have live experience can probably add more to this.  I'll be interested in what they say because I'm counting on yoga to keep my back and hips from siezing up while I'm spending most of my time off my foot.
    • Posted

      Hi Lindley, I agree. My usual routine is a combination of weights and CV in the gym and yoga, mostly vinyasa flow, but I have done hatha as well. I used to go to class but due to work pressures I find doing a DVD at home is easier. I do need to get my flexibility back, so it might be worth seeing what I can safely do, as Kevin says keeping off plank and anything balance related. Keep us posted on how you are doing, all the best for your surgery!
  • Posted

    Hi Caroline.....I am like you and love Pilates/yoga style exercises. Also I love been active and gym work. My job as a Lifestyle and Physio assist means I am on my feet all day. Now it's like....suddenly sitting on my butt, reading books and watching tv. It's def not me lol. After having my bunion op on both feet....I just listened to my body and do what I can do. But now the casts are on. I have been doing some exercises that involve my legs, arms and stomach but no pressure on my feet. So all chair or floor work. Feels wonderful to start moving. Just no sweat up....but hey....it will be worth it. We just have to be patient. Good luck 
    • Posted

      Hi Krinny,

      Thanks for this! I am going to go to the gym at the weekend and try and do some upper body weights, and I am going to pump up my Swiss Ball to use at home. Now that I am steadier on my feet I feel ready to start moving gently. I am also back on the 5-2 diet as I have put on a couple of kilos thanks to my husband's comforting dinners whilst he was in control of the kitchen!

      I am amazed hearing the stories of people having both feet done, I could not imagine that - respect!! Go well, you are right it will be worth it!

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