Whether you have sutures due to a laceration or because you are recovering from recent surgery, you are going to have restrictions on the types of activities you can and cannot participate in. However, this does not mean you are unable to exercise. With activity modification and the permission of your doctor, you can participate in low-impact exercises as your arm recovers.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor. Discuss the types of exercises you are permitted to participate in with sutures in your arm. This may vary based on why you have sutures. For example, restrictions are likely to be different if you are recovering from surgery from a fractured arm than if you are recovering from a small laceration to your arm.
Step 2
Keep your wound covered. Use clean bandages to help keep your wound safe from bacteria and sweat as you exercise. As for your sutures, Brown University notes that sutures are typically removed between seven and 10 days, at which time you may no longer need bandages -- but ask your doctor to ensure your safety.
Step 3
Participate in low-impact cardiovascular exercise. Try brisk walking, low-impact aerobics, using an elliptical machine or riding a stationary bike. Exercise for 30 minutes per day, five days per week to reap the benefits of cardiovascular exercise, which includes weight control and prevention of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, according to the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Step 4
Strength train your lower body and core. Avoid exercises that involve your arms. Try lunges, squats, situps, crunches and leg extensions. Perform exercises in one set of 20 repetitions. The National Academy of Sports Medicine recommends two to three strength training sessions per week. Sessions should last 30 minutes.
Step 5
Walk more frequently. With activity limitations, minor changes in your lifestyle can help you to gain opportunities to exercise. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator or park farther away from your destination.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid swimming. The University of Northern Iowa Student Health Clinic indicates your wound should be kept dry for the first 24 hours, and then you are permitted to shower. However, do not swim or fully submerge your arm in water until you have the approval of your doctor. Avoid exercises that place stress or pressure on your arm -- such as pushups or weightlifting.
- Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, swelling or drainage coming from your incision site.
Things You'll Need
- Bandages
References
- University of Northern Iowa Student Health Clinic: Suture Care
- "National Academy of Sports Medicine: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training"; Scott Lucett; 2008
- Brown University: Suture Care Instructions
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