The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive procedure to treat a condition known as pectus excavatum -- a defect where the breastbone is abnormally depressed. This procedure is often performed when pectus excavatum leads to breathing difficulties, shortness of breath and chest pains. Robert Wood Johnson Hospital indicates patients normally spend five to seven days in the hospital. During this time, leg exercises can help prevent patients from forming blood clots in their legs and help them to maintain strength as they recover.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor or physical therapist. Never perform any exercises without permission from those in charge of your care.
Step 2
Complete ankle pumps. Lie in bed with your legs fully extended in front of you. Gently pump your ankles up and down as if you were pumping the gas or the brakes of a car. Complete one set of 20 repetitions, twice a day.
Step 3
Move your ankles in circles. Make circles with both of your ankles going clockwise for five minutes. Next, perform an additional five minutes of ankle circles going counterclockwise. Repeat twice a day. Move only your ankles, avoid moving your hips, knees and lower legs.
Step 4
Perform straight leg raises. Lie on your back with your legs fully extended. Your heels should be touching your bed with your feet pointing toward the ceiling. Gently raise one of your legs -- while keeping your knee straight. Raise your leg about one foot off the ground. Hold this position for two seconds. Relax and repeat 10 times. Complete an additional 10 times with your opposite leg. Repeat straight leg raises twice a day.
Step 5
Walk around. Once you have permission to get out of bed, get up and walk around. Walk around your hospital room or walk through the halls. For your safety, bring a friend, family member or hospital staff member along with you. Walk for five to 10 minutes at a time, two to three times per day.
Tips and Warnings
- Wait for the approval of your doctor to begin more vigorous exercise. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital indicates vigorous exercise should be avoided for one month and contact sports should be avoided for three months following a Nuss procedure.
- If you experience pain, numbness, swelling or tightness in your legs, inform your physician. This may be a sign of a blood clot.
References
- "National Academy of Sports Medicine: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training"; Scott Luccett; 2008
- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital: Pectus Excavatum Treatment
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