Hi. My PCP said I have degenerative tears in my menisci (cartilage on sides of knee) in both knees as well as several other comorbidities that she wants me to be sedentary. They can heal, but not until I lose a great deal of weight.

Can you still lose weight post-op when you're not really exercising?

I have a problem with mobility but feel much better when I exercise and know it is critical for my success. I was able to get in the pool this summer but since it is cold I had to find something I could do. Also, I am still pre-op but once I have surgery I won't be able to get in the pool right away.

I got an exercise peddler from Amazon and peddle with my hands when I watch tv. I started using it for 5-10 minutes and now have a goal of at least 60 minutes every day. I am actually having fun pedaling.

If something like this sounds interesting you might want to check with your dr and see if it's something you could do with your limitations.

Edited February 9, 201511 yr by Inner Surfer Girl

I too have mobility issues related to some problems in my lower spine . I have difficulty walking most of the time because I have lost a lot of sensation and control of the left leg. You can find other ways to get physically active without causing further injury. Water aerobics and swimming are 2 of the best exercises for people with joint or mobility issues. I highly, highly suggest asking your doctor for a physical therapy referral. The physical therapists are a tremendous asset and wealth of knowledge for people with joint issues. The physical therapist helped me find and modify exercises to meet my needs. She also taught me how to advance my physical activity also. It is worth checking into! Good luck on your wl journey !

I have no money, heavily in debt with medical bills. I wonder if I saw a PT once, they can teach me what to do? Or a few times?

@ When I started my journey in Aug of last year I was physically limited and therefore didn't exercise. I lost weight for several months then it stopped. By then I was taking in more calories because of my sedentary life style and I stopped losing weight. I was lucky that my medical insurance covered PT and I used it. I'm still limited on the length of time I can exercise but it's enough now that I can do it. So yes you can lose weight, but for me it wasn't enough to reach my goal so I had to do exercise.

@ Have you looked into chair exercises online. Most don't require you to put to much pressure on your legs. There's a show that comes on PBS in the afternoons "Sit and Be Fit" . Sit and Be Fit also has some videos online.. Check it out. It might work for you.

I've read multiple studies and found it to be true as well: that 80% of weight loss is done in the kitchen, 20% in the gym. This isn't to downplay the importance of exercise and physical fitness but to suggest that you can healthily and safely lose weight without a particularly active lifestyle. I also agree with the above commenters that sitting/chair exercises are a good addition to the weight loss journey.

You can do this!!

Thanks guys, I will look into the shows and videos. I'm going to look on youtube.