Is it safe to do squats 2 weeks post op?

I can ask at my appointment on Friday but I wanted to start a challenge today with my BFF. I have been walking 2 miles each day and haven't had any issues, just sore legs. I would also like to know if I can use my elliptical yet?

My (just short of) 2 weeks is today, I plan on asking.

Anne

the exercise physiologist on staff with my surgeon won't let us do anything other than walk for four weeks out of surgery. ymmv!

Same answer for me, but for 6 weeks. At 6 weeks and 1 day, I will be cleared for whatever I want. They reminded me last week that despite outward appearances, this is major, major abdominal surgeryand it takes time to recover.

Walking was the only thing I could do for six weeks. Then the surgeon said I could start lifting some light weights and he said to work it up slowly. His only admonition: "Don't hurt yourself". Like duh obviously...

Yeah, on second thought, it's probably too soon. Thanks everyone!

At my 2 week appt I was cleared to go back to the gym, but only to continue walking and I could do the machines, but with no weights on them. I dont see the point, so Im not even doing that. My next appt is on the 16th at 6 weeks out and fingers crossed I can do Zumba!

Interesting how different drs are.....I am cleared for anything I can do. (12 days out)

I'd say a firm No. Even body weight squats engage the core more than i would think is wise after abdominal surgery. I lifted heavy regularly before surgery, and did weighted squats etc. and I waited for six weeks to intentionally lift anything heavier than a pitcher of water. I REALLY hated being in the hospital and didn't want to end up back there with a hernia!

Walking is great after surgery to get your blood and nutrients moving around your body- but realistically I think doing anything else for the first month or so post op is kind of counter productive because you wont be able to do it with any intensity that with result in any real strength preservation/gains or any cardiovascular health gains and even if you manage to you are still redirecting precious body resources from healing and are putting yourself at risk for an injury.

But I'm not a medical professional so take that as you will.