It can be a little tricky exercising when you have bandages. You may need to modify your workout routine and take extra precautions with your bandages to prevent the risk of infection. Never exercise while wearing a bandage without physician approval. Your physician may recommend a modified exercise regimen that you can perform until your injury has healed.
Ankle Sprains
If you have a sprained ankle or foot, your doctor may allow you to perform certain exercises that either applies little or no pressure to the injured foot. He may recommend aquatic exercises if you only have a sprain and are wearing a soft bandage, as your body is virtually weightless in water. He may allow you to bicycle as it's generally safe with a sprain, according to FamilyDoctor.org. You can still perform balance exercises; you will only use your noninjured foot to balance your weight.
Knee Sprain
Your doctor will likely have you wear a flexible knee bandage for a knee sprain. This allows you to adjust the bandage to make your injury more comfortable while you exercise and perform normal daily activities. Depending on the severity of your knee sprain, your doctor may allow walking and light running. You may also bicycle, provided the pain isn't unbearable, and swim. Knee injuries can become easily aggravated because you move your knee so much with just about any movement your body makes. If you have knee pain, talk to your physician about pain relief options. He may recommend non-anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, to reduce swelling and decrease pain. These types of medications may cause kidney problems and stomach bleeding; use only as directed.
Shoulder Surgery
If you've undergone shoulder surgery, it's important to remain active to keep your core strong, but your doctor may advise you that your exercise options are limited. Due to the nature of shoulder injuries and surgeries, a lot of movement can complicate recovery time and induce further damage. Your doctor is likely to advise you to keep your sling or immobilizer on at all times. Your physician will refer you to a physical therapist to learn exercises that are safe to perform while your shoulder heals. Walking is generally safe, as long as you wear your immobilizer to reduce the risk of injury.
Considerations
Follow all physician orders to the letter. Do not try to overdo any physical activity, including exercising. Make sure you change your bandages if they become soaked in sweat, as this can increase the risk of infection. The moisture from your bandages can trap dirt, bacteria and other debris. Consider wearing an adjustable bandage, if your physician approves, to make it more comfortable when you exercise. Waterproof bandages may also be another alternative.
