working out after a broken leg

juditanne
juditanne Posts: 59 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
So i just started going back to the gym after three months of not being able to go. I broke my leg at the end of August and had a plate and six screws put in my leg. I have been off the crutches since mid-October and it has been a hell of a time getting used to the pressure my lower leg now has.

At the gym now I stick to the elliptical. I know I cannot do JUST cardio all of the time, so does anyone have any suggestions of what I can do as far as lower body weights exercises go?

Replies

  • MostlyWater
    MostlyWater Posts: 4,294 Member
    did you ask your dr or therapist?
  • juditanne
    juditanne Posts: 59 Member
    I did. He said to start on the bike, which I did use this week, and use the elliptical for stretching the ligaments for the first month.

    I was just asking to see if anyone else here has the same issue.

    Sorry.
  • josavage
    josavage Posts: 472 Member
    Has your doctor given you the okay to weight train?

    I have a plate and 9 screws in my ankle and my doctor told me that I could do whatever exercises I wanted. My ankle has certainly acted up over the years but with physical therapy, it improves and don't think it holds me back at all. I run, lift weights, take kickboxing, step classes, or anything else that interests me.

    If you are good to lift weights, just start out slow with low weight and build from there. I don't normally recommend machines but with your leg, they are probably best because you are sitting in most of them and that will help with stability and balance. Once you feel strong and confident, you can move on to free weights. Another option is to work with a trainer who will help you with form, etc.
  • juditanne
    juditanne Posts: 59 Member
    I have not seen my doctor since October because I have not had to. Also, I was not able to do physical therapy because of some money situations. I was lucky enough to have had a brother that helped me out because he has been through the same thing as me. My doctor just said to do things at my comfort level and not push too much. My mother has bionic children. She must be proud.

    Anyway, I will probably just take things slow and at my comfort level like the Dr. says.

    Thanks anyway :)

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