I spend a lot of time resting so my muscles are slack; can I exercise?

[Blinkysmom]

Part of the reason I can't walk well is because it took two years of being bedridden to be diagnosed so my muscles are weak. I'd like to build them up.

[clivealive Forum Support]

I use a sit upon in my armchair, electrically powered "exercise bike" for twenty minutes a day and have done so for the past two years since being diagnosed with diabetes and told to exercise.

Having had P.A. for 45 years and knowing my energy levels I nearly laughed out loud but the little machine has really helped. And No! I'm not on commission.

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The girl in the picture is a lot prettier than me

[Gambit62 Administrator]

you will need to exercise to build them up again.

exercising too much after a long period of activity could be problematic - any chance you could get a referral to or see a private physio to guide you through the exercises that are most likely to be effective. They will also be able to suggest exercises to help improve balance generally.

[bquoss]

Yes, exercise will help, but it's tricky. When I began B12 injections several years ago, I could barely walk from peripheral nerve damage, etc. I had a recumbent bike that saved me, and I still use it or walk outside. I use small weights for upper body and various stretching or strengthening exercises -- not all at once! Sometimes I overdo it and have to avoid exercise a while. But my muscles are stronger and I have better balance. Measure your progress by a 6 to 8 months basis and you will see improvement. Do not give up and take your time. Muscle strength will give you a better life, and that is surely what you want. If you decide to work with a physical therapist, they should work with you the way they would work with frail elderly, who also take it very slow to get better -- and they do! You can too.