Greetings Everyone!! Does anyone have comments on how soon you were able to actually start exercising after surgery i.e walking outside , cardio . I'm also interested in knowing how soon you guys started to drive after surgery . I suffer from major depressive disorder and I have found that in addition to my meds being outside and exercising enhances my mood tremendously. I'm so glad I found this site, I have received so much info from all of you and I am excited to know you all will be here after my surgery as a support .

I believe you are supposed to be walking from the moment you wake up in recovery. As for cardio I got clearance to go back to the gym to do cardio (have to wait 4-5 weeks to go back to weights) about 12 days out from surgery, but I think this is more of a go at your own pace type of thing. As for driving I don't think there is any limitation so long as you aren't taking a pain medication that causes drowsiness.

Edited March 29, 20188 yr by aNYCdb

For me it was a bit different went to surgery on March 5th started walking since I woke up, went home 2 days after surgery, on may 9th started walking 5k (2.5 in the morning, 2.5 in the afternoon) on week 2 Dr cleared me to go do stationary machines at the gym and light weights, so I’ve been doing just that normally do 30 min elliptical and 30 min weights only 45 lbs no more than that on weights but talk to your Dr every single one of them has a different playbook but they all have you best interests in mind

As for driving I was clear after 10 days of surgery

I started driving 5 days after surgery to go to work. My doctor said to make sure I could twist to look at my blind spots without pain. It was totally bearable. And of course, don't be on pain meds! Haha. He and my dietitian tell me to walk everyday and will allow me full, rigorous cardio / weights 6 weeks post op.