Can yoga and pilates help people recover from a leg fracture?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been feeling like my body has turned to stone after being on rest for a while due to a leg fracture. I want to get back to moving freely without feeling stiff and rusty all the time. I am not sure where to start, though. I know I need to work on my flexibility and agility, but what kind of exercises should I be looking at?

I have heard about yoga and pilates, but I am not sure if they are the right fit for someone recovering from an injury like mine. Should I try something more gentle at first, or can I dive into stretching routines right away?

I do not want to overdo it and end up hurting myself again, but I also do not want to feel like I am 80 years old when I am just trying to tie my shoes. I am eager to feel like myself again and not worry about every little movement.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

You can start with low-intensity workouts and gradually increase the intensity according to the response of the body.

First, it is important to understand your body and start accordingly.

Start with light aerobic activities.
Stretches should be included in the warm-up and cool-down phases.
Upper extremity, trunk, and lower extremity stretches can be done.
Bodyweight calisthenics can be included on a repetition basis.
Hydration of the body is important.
Customized programming is required to get a better result.
Initially, high repetitions and low intensity can be followed, then intensity can be increased.
Active free exercises of the joints every two hours can be scheduled to increase flexibility and mobility.
Resistive training can be incorporated later on.
Regular activities like mat stretches, yoga, and sitting posture correction can be done.
Every day, 30 to 35 minutes of physical activity should be done to see the results.
But remember to rest in between and have proper pre- and post-workout meals for better strength and results.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.