Should Running or Heavy Lifting Be Avoided After Testicular Torsion?

When the spermatic cord that supplies blood to your testicle becomes twisted, this condition is called testicular torsion. The condition requires surgery because the lack of blood flow will cause your testicle to die otherwise. Testicular torsion repair is a procedure in which this cord is untwisted and anchored to your scrotum in its proper place. There is a recovery period following the surgery in which activities including heavy running and heavy lifting are restricted.

Onset

Testicular torsion can occur after strenuous exercise or trauma to your scrotum. It also can occur without such factors if you have inadequate connective tissue within your scrotum -- sometimes even in sleep. No matter what the cause, you need to halt physical activities such as running or weightlifting and get surgery as soon as possible. If your surgery is performed within six hours, your testicle is likely to be saved, according to PubMedHealth.gov. Call 911 or go immediately to the emergency room if you experience this condition. Symptoms include sudden and severe pain in one testicle, scrotal swelling, nausea and light-headedness.

Surgery

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While the surgery is often a same-day procedure, meaning you get to return home the day of the surgery, you might leave with a bulky scrotal bandage. You will likely need medication to manage your pain for one to three days. Expect your scrotum to have significant swelling.

Post-Operation Care

Once home, you need to rest in bed as much as you can. Keep your scrotum elevated with a small pillow to minimize discomfort. You will need to clean your wound and put on a new bandage, following directions from your surgeon. Also monitor the area for possible complications such as infection.

Return to Activity

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Your surgeon might allow you to return to work or school within a few days to a week, but any strenuous physical activity, such as weightlifting or running, will be restricted for several weeks. Do not return to any sort of activity without consulting your surgeon. Once you are allowed to start running or weightlifting again, always remain cautious about your testicles. Consult a doctor immediately if you have any testicular discomfort. Also wear protection if you participate in contact sports.