Alternate Weight Lifting Exercise Suggestions Needed

DontWeightStartNow

So I just went to the neurologist this morning and he tells me I need surgery on both hands for "severe Carpel Tunnel bi-lateral." I told him I lift weights as my daily workout (barbells, dumbbells, etc.). Doc says I must give that up, especially during my recovery time. I'm thinking now that I probably have to bite the bullet and join a gym if I want to continue upper body workouts minus the barbells and dumbbells by replacing those exercises with machines. I'm sure there are others out there in my boat, can anybody out there suggest replacement exercises for one or the following - I'm assuming my only option is to use the machines instead of free weights at this point: One arm dumbbell rows, dumbbell curls, barbell curls, seated dumbbell extensions and dumbbell presses???

wait_loss

Get an inching study before the surgery to pin point the blockage. Husband has had 4 surgeries and no relief. And now has chronic pain. Only to find out that the blockage is in the palm of his hands. Found by a Physical medicine doctor. If he has this surgery because of the other surgeries will not be able to use his hands. Good luck. You might be able to use resistance bands around the wrist rather than holding them in your hand.

katy_trail

You could also use a weighted vest for doing squats and lunges instead of holding db.
you can buy 1, make 1- Instructables.com, or use a backpack in a pinch.

sorry to hear about your situation, wish I could think of more solutions in addition to the above post.

goldfinger88

Isometrics. They're safe and effective and most anyone can do them anytime, any place. See what your doctors says. There is a great video on Amazon you can use if you need one and lots of books.

wareagle8706

There are a lot of options here...

But if you join a gym I just suggest you ask them to show you. I wouldn't even know where to start explaining there are so many...

ncurtis52

I am a Pilates instructor and I promise you, resistance bands will keep your upper body fit. When you are stronger incorporating things like plank position will use your body's weight as resistance. You don't need to join a gym...invest in a dvd using resistance bands (once your dr gives you the ok to exercise of course).

shirleygirl910

I am a Pilates instructor and I promise you, resistance bands will keep your upper body fit. When you are stronger incorporating things like plank position will use your body's weight as resistance. You don't need to join a gym...invest in a dvd using resistance bands (once your dr gives you the ok to exercise of course).

This is what came to mind for me too, but I was thinking more along the lines of core exercises. Pilates is core.

wellbert

Good news. Low bar open grip back squats don't require grip strength.

DontWeightStartNow

Thanks everyone for the suggestions, I was really disappointed when he told me I'll have to give up my dumbbells. I have no choice but to have the surgery, he said I am "severe" so hopefully I won't have to worry about any follow up surgeries or chronic pain.