How long before I can return to the Gym after my Graft?

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jayuk
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How long before I can return to the Gym after my Graft?

Postby jayuk » Wed 08 Nov 2006 6:56 pm

Having a Corneal transplant; regardless of type (Penetrating Keratoplasty - PK or Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty - DALK) can be a daunting time for people. Whilst the procedure is relatively simple and quick; the recover can be anything from 8-24 months!.

During this time, its important that you follow instructions from your Eye Specialists on when you can return so specific activities.

The one Im referring to here is the Gym. From personal experence this was a big issue for me. I had been training since I was 15 and had my graft when I was 27. So to be told that I couldnt go to the gym, for possibly 12 months was a shock...as it was basically Cold Turkey!

However, following my PK, I returned to performing light cardio at the 6-8 week mark and returned to performing weights at as 10-12 week. This was a gradual return and it does require that you be extremely careful when performing any exercise in the gym

First and foremose; do not even think about returning unless you have got the ALL CLEAR from your eye specialist.

Following that, try and refrain from straining doing any movements. Multi joint movements such as Squat, Deadlift, Overhead Presses, Heavy Bench Presses and the likes need to be performed VERY light.

Do remember that any strain, CAN POTENTIALLY cause sutures around the cornea to break.

Therefore, you will need to overexaggerate the Breathing and if possible Close your eyes durng the movement (thats if you can! If you need to see during the movement than OBVIOUSLY DO NOT CLOSE THEM!!!)

Return to the gym in a slow and gradual manner ensuring that you ALWAYS get the ALL CLEAR from your eye specialist!

With regards to times!..Well it really does depend on your recovery, type of graft, eye specialist, etc

Jay
KC is about facing the challenges it creates rather than accepting the problems it generates -
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