After being discharge home following abdominal surgery, you will need need plenty of rest while you recover.  Ask your physiotherapist or doctor to recommend a suitable rehabilitation program to help build your strength and stamina.  Exercise in important after any surgery because it;

• Helps to regain your strength and stamina
• Prevents phlegm build up and reduce the risk of lung infection
• Keeps your bone strong and prevent osteoporosis
• Help digestion and prevents constipation
• Improves your mood and self confidence

Exercises at Home

Stage 1. Start by going for short walks on flat ground every day.  Walking helps improve blood circulation and increases the oxygen flow into your lungs which helps reduce the risk of lung infection after the surgery.  Start by walking 10-15 minutes initially (with a walking stick if necessary) before increasing the distance as you get stronger and fitter. You can supplement this with some simple exercises at home to strengthen your upper and lower limbs as well as the abdominal muscles

Stage 2. You should be able to do more strenuous exercises with some light weights or using a resistant band to help you tone your muscles

Stage 3. You should be able to do some cycling, brisk walking, swimming or jogging before eventually returning back to your usually sporting activity

Click to view Caroline Jordan video on Ab-Surgery Exercises

Here are some Core Stability Exercises (image source NHS-UK) which help to strengthen abdomen and pelvic floor muscles and can be done up to 3 times a day as well as exercises for lower limbs.  As always, do consult your physiotherapist or doctor before starting any exercise program.

Pelvic Tilt

Lie down on the bed. As you breathe out, draw your stomach in tilt your pelvis forward while flattening your back into the bed and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5-10 times

Knee Rolling

Lie down on the bed with your knees bent. Hold your tummy in and shoulder on the bed. Rotate your both knees together to one and side and then to the opposite side.  Repeat 5-10 times

Straight Leg Raise

Sit with your knees by your side. Straighten one leg with the toes pointing up and hold for 5 seconds.  Repeat with the other leg.  Repeat the set 5-10 times

Marching Legs

Sit with your knees by your side. March your knees up and down for 30 seconds

Standing March

Stand straight and hold onto a chair or table top.  March your knees up and down for 30 seconds

Toes Push Up

Stand straight and hold onto a chair or table top.  Push up and down on your toes for 10 times

Discuss the rehabilitation options available for you with your physiotherapist or doctor

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