Post-Surgery Exercise Guidelines for Internal Hemorrhoid Patients

Exercise During Hemorrhoid Ligation Surgery

Hello Doctor, today I visited a physician due to pain while using the restroom caused by internal hemorrhoids.
The doctor explained that I have thrombosed internal hemorrhoids, and performed a ligation procedure in the outpatient setting.
I was advised not to engage in vigorous exercise, cycling, or hiking for the next three weeks, and to only walk.
Since I usually have an exercise routine, I am not quite accustomed to this restriction.
I would like to discuss with the doctor whether I can still perform some light exercises, such as core workouts or push-ups that focus on the upper body.
Is swimming permissible? Thank you for your response.

Mr. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

If the physician's advice is to avoid vigorous exercise, I wouldn't suggest ignoring it.
After all, only the physician who performed the ligation knows the severity of your hemorrhoids.
If you disregard the medical advice and end up causing significant bleeding from the wound, I cannot take responsibility for that.
It would be best for you to discuss in detail with the physician who performed the ligation about what exercises you can safely do.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

After undergoing a procedure for internal hemorrhoids, particularly one involving ligation due to thrombosis, it is crucial to follow your physician's post-operative guidelines to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. The recommendation to refrain from vigorous activities, including cycling, hiking, and any strenuous exercise, for at least three weeks is standard practice. This period allows the surgical site to heal adequately and reduces the risk of bleeding or other complications.

Exercise Guidelines Post-Surgery for Internal Hemorrhoids
1. Walking: Light walking is typically encouraged as it promotes circulation and can aid in recovery. It is a low-impact activity that does not put undue strain on the surgical site.

2. Avoid Strain: Activities that involve heavy lifting, straining, or any form of high-impact exercise should be avoided during the initial recovery phase. This includes exercises that engage the core heavily or put pressure on the pelvic region.

3. Upper Body Exercises: While your inclination to engage in upper body workouts such as push-ups or core exercises is understandable, it is essential to approach this cautiously. These exercises can inadvertently engage the core muscles, which might lead to increased pressure in the abdominal area and potentially affect the healing process. It is advisable to consult your surgeon or a physical therapist before starting any upper body workouts.

4. Swimming: Swimming can be a good low-impact exercise; however, it is essential to ensure that the surgical site is adequately healed and that there is no risk of infection. If your doctor has not specifically mentioned swimming as a restriction, it may be permissible, but again, it is best to confirm with your healthcare provider.

5. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any discomfort or pain during activities. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as increased pain, bleeding, or swelling, it is crucial to stop the activity and consult your doctor.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: After the initial three-week period, you can gradually reintroduce more strenuous activities. Start slowly and monitor how your body responds. If you feel comfortable, you can slowly increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

7. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and recovery progress. If you have any doubts about what exercises are safe, do not hesitate to reach out for clarification.

Conclusion
In summary, while it is understandable to want to return to your regular exercise routine, it is essential to prioritize your recovery following surgery for internal hemorrhoids. Adhering to your doctor's advice and being mindful of your body's signals will help ensure a smooth recovery process. After the initial recovery phase, you can gradually reintroduce more activities, but always with caution and under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Exercise Guidelines for Internal Hemorrhoid Ligation

After hemorrhoid ligation surgery, is it safe to (1) walk on a treadmill for one hour a day (at a slow pace), (2) swim for one hour (approximately 1500 meters), and (3) do 20 push-ups at a time? Appreciate in advance.

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Since the wound from internal hemorrhoid ligation is located inside the anus, regular exercise is generally not affected as long as it does not cause pain or discomfort. However, it is advisable not to overexert oneself during the first week after the procedure.

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