The prostate gland is located within the male reproductive system, near the bladder, and is roughly the size of a walnut. As men age, the prostate gland can become cancerous, causing symptoms such as urine leakage, blood in the urine or semen and delayed urine flow. Common treatments for prostate cancer include radiation and surgery. If you have prostate surgery, exercising is an important factor in your recovery.
Features
Prostate cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death among men of any age, and the first among men over 75, according to MedlinePlus. Higher risk factors for prostate cancer include being African American, a male over 60 and having a father or brother with the disease. Prostate cancer isn't normally found in men under the age of 40.
Kegel Exercises
After prostate surgery, you may have problems with urinary or fecal incontinence. Performing Kegel exercises is a way to strengthen the muscles necessary to control your bladder and bowels. To do Kegel exercises, simply squeeze the muscles you would use to stop your flow of urine once you have started. You can even practice while you are urinating to make sure you are contracting the proper muscles. Follow a schedule and repetition range as set forth by your doctor.
Schedule
The Floyd & Delores Jones Cancer Institute at Virginia Mason says it will take between six to eight weeks before you return to your pre-surgery strength and endurance. It is important to pace yourself and not jump right into strenuous exercise too soon after surgery. Follow the protocol given to you by doctors and listen to your body. If you have difficulty or feel any pain when exercising, stop.
At Home
On the day you arrive home, you can begin a walking routine. Walk for five to 10 minutes in the morning, afternoon and evening. Increase the total duration to 45 minutes in the first week, and 90 minutes in weeks two, three and four. Stretching can be part of your routine right from the start as well. Stretch lightly for five minutes on day one, 10 minutes twice a day during week one, 15 minutes twice a day in week two and 20 minutes twice a day in weeks three and four. During weeks three and four you can begin exercises like golfing, light resistance training and swimming.
Considerations
Nurses will likely help you out of bed to get you moving on the same day as your surgery or day after if it was performed later in the day. If you experience any weakness, nausea or dizziness during exercise at any stage, you have pushed yourself too far and should scale back.
