Help With Exercise

[Gjohnso]

Hi. I am about 2 months out from my L5 fracture. It was my 5th since October. Dr. said I could slowly start exercising. I have a treadmill but walking slowly for 5-10 minutes brings pain. I was originally scheduled for physical therapy but can’t go because of the virus.

What do you use for aerobic exercise? I’ve been researching recumbent bikes. Does anyone use one?

[Gjohnso]

Thanks. Where would I find such exercises? Also, the aerobic part comes after I had pneumonia in early February. I want to strengthen my lungs because of the virus.

[HeronNS in reply to Gjohnso]

You may find something helpful here:

nof.org/preventing-fracture...

americanbonehealth.org/exer...

osteoporosis.ca/bone-health...

[Nanaedake]

I found any bike exercise in the gym too hard on my lower back. Just my experience.

[Met00]

I used a reclining bike following a slipped disc. It gives support to the back, so avoids injury (whereas an upright bike can cause too much stress on the spine). However, any kind of cycling, although good for other areas of health, does nothing to strengthen the bones as it's low impact. Some people find walking with poles is helpful, because it helps you maintain good posture.

[Gjohnso]

Thanks for your advice! Do you recommend a particular type of walking poles? Thanks.

[Met00 in reply to Gjohnso]

I've seen people recommend Nordic walking poles, but you'd then need instruction in Nordic walking! I'd guess any kind of pole that gets you working your upper as well as lower body when you walk could be helpful.

[Gjohnso in reply to Met00]

Thanks. I will look into it.