Originally Posted by cath1

Hi Bunz,

I'm struggling with the same issues, only about 5 or 6 lbs heavier then presurgery, but on a short 5 foot frame that's a lot. And I feel so flabby and out of shape... I too was told walking is the best thing. Also, I'm able to do some time on my stationary bike (we found one that has an upright sitting position that doesn't hurt my neck posture or bring on neural symptoms.) Another thing that I to do is ankle weights (since all my issues are neck/arms/hand)... I put the ankle weights and can lie on the floor with my neck on my cervical pillow and do light palates for legs and stomach. (leg lifts, circles, bicycle in the air, that sort of thing). I am super careful of my posture not to hurt my new fusion, and I ok'd it with my physiotherapist and my neurosurgeon. My ankle weights are only 4lbs, not crazy heavy, and they are available at Zellers and Walmart for about $10. Lastly, swimming is the BEST for our bodies and issues. We just put a pool in this summer for me, the water therapy is awesome, it takes all the pressure off the neck and nerves. Unfortunately living in Ontario we won't be doing much swimming for the rest of the year, but I still have my Goodlife Fitness membership so I may just have to try the pool there again this winter.

I was just telling my hubby last night I want to start going to the gym again this weekend so I can get back on the treadmill there since the weather is crappy here right now.... we were big gym rats pre-surgery (actually where I met him).

Let me know if you find any other exercises that I might be able to try also!

Have a great day.
Cathie