Cortisone injection - no exercise for 2 weeks?

Kathy535
Kathy535 Posts: 31 Member
Hi. I've just had a cortisone injection in one shoulder for calcification tendonitis. The doctor said no exercise for 2 weeks, start with swimming and after 3-4 weeks start gym / weights with light weights, gradually increasing. While this seems overly cautious to me, I accept that 1) I'm not medically trained and 2) after 4 years of some pain I'm keen to get the best result from this jab. Having said that, I've seen a change in shape over the last couple of weeks of exercise and I know that if I don't do something I'll lose my motivation.

So, can anyone suggest exercise that I can do? I'm thinking squats, lunges and careful crunches plus walking

Replies

  • LeanButNotMean44
    LeanButNotMean44 Posts: 852 Member
    How about biking or the elliptical without the moving handles? I would definitely do lower body weights if you are "allowed".

    I am not sure how it works for shoulders, but I know from firsthand experience that there is a slight chance of a muscle rupture/tear with cortisone, so that may be why your doc is being cautious.
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    how about listening to your doctor and laying low for 3 short weeks? if you're going to lose all motivation during 3-4 weeks of recovery time, the problem isn't in your shoulder.
  • Kathy535
    Kathy535 Posts: 31 Member
    how about listening to your doctor and laying low for 3 short weeks? if you're going to lose all motivation during 3-4 weeks of recovery time, the problem isn't in your shoulder.

    You are right of course. And I do have a problem with motivating myself, which is why I lost weight and then put it all back on and am now struggling to lose it again. And I spent yesterday feeling rather rough so have accepted that the Doctors advise is right (although the idea of elliptical trainer, legs only is good and after a fortnight I think I'll start there)

    Thanks both.
  • AprilRN10
    AprilRN10 Posts: 548 Member
    You should still be able to do lower body. Call the office and check before you do it, but you should be able to. NO upper body stuff though.
  • sarahliftsUP
    sarahliftsUP Posts: 752 Member
    That's brutal that you can't exercise for 2 weeks. I would listen to your doctor - but you will just have to be really careful with your eating. Just think of it as 2 weeks to really perfect your eating habits! And while you can't exercise, just keep busy. Do housework to keep your body still moving but not actual exercise. Hopefully the 2 weeks goes by fast!