[ladylaura418]

Hi all,

I'm 24yo female and pretty active. Prior to TOS in my life, I enjoyed running, walking, and yoga. I'm starting to feel down because I can't exercise like I used to.

I want to go running, but my hands swell and my shoulders ache. I want to go to yoga, but the blood drains from my hands and my arms ache. I want to go hiking, but my arms get tired. I want to go rock climbing, but I don't want the strength anymore.

I just feel like I'm 24 going on 64. I can't exercise like I want to anymore, and I'm waiting for Botox treatment.

Any suggestions on how to stay fit and active with TOS? Or maybe just someone who says "yeah, it sucks. I get it."?

Thanks, everyone.

[Jomar]

For yoga avoid any postures that increase symptoms, find the ones that you can do.
Swimming ? or more of floating in a warm pool or hot tub helps many.
Speed walking -moderate?
during my acute recovery time PT had me start w/ isometrics.

But sometimes it is best to back off most strenuous activities until you get pain/symptoms under control.

I'm experimenting with a mini trampoline for overall fitness & lymph drainage help. No vigorous bouncing , just an easy up/down or side to side movement -not even lifting off the tramp.
but i need to be more consistent with it to see if it makes any difference.

[Shadow1]

I've been able to do either the elliptical or the Cybex Arc Trainer without much problem. I start out without holding on, my arms are either just down by my side or gently resting on my hips. Then I vary my arm position, either by holding the arm handles or by having them on my hips. When they are holding the arm handles, they are simply just holding, I don't pump them to get an upper body workout. I do it mainly to get some motion in my arms. If the arm part bothers you, don't do it, just keep your arms down or on your hips, or wherever they are comfortable.

Also, I wear a heart rate monitor and keep my heart rate at such a rate where I am able to control my breathing and not incorporate any chest breathing and my scalenes. I have to stay around 140 bpm. I'm 40 and like to work out harder than this but I'll take it if this is all I can get right now.

I'm also able to do leg exercises without much problem, just be aware of posture, breath holding, etc...

Good luck.