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Getting back in shape after being bedridden for 4 months?

3 min read

Asked by: John Hampton

How long does it take to recover after being bedridden?

Remobilisation. On remobilisation, disuse weakness is typically reversed at a rate of around 6% per week with exercise. It typically takes about four weeks to recover from the disuse atrophy caused by immobility, which is slower than the recovery from direct muscle trauma (Halar, 1994).

How long does it take to get back in shape after 4 months off?

And if you exercise regularly, over time you will gain even more fitness benefits. “At 6 to 8 weeks, you can definitely notice some changes,” said Logie, “and in 3 to 4 months you can do a pretty good overhaul to your health and fitness.” Strength-specific results take about the same amount of time.

How do I start working out after bedridden?

You can, and should – just start very slowly. Begin with 2 to 5 minutes of walking the first week, repeating it a few times during the day if you can. Increase that by 5 minutes each week. Set a goal to be able to do 15 to 20 minutes of light exercise per session by the fourth to sixth week of your recovery.

How long does it take for muscles to atrophy when bedridden?

Muscles. Disuse of the muscles leads to atrophy and a loss of muscle strength at a rate of around 12% a week (Jiricka, 2008). After 3–5 weeks of bedrest, almost half the normal strength of a muscle is lost.

What happens if you are bedridden for too long?

A bedridden patient becomes vulnerable to various health complications like painful bed sores, circulation and respiratory problems, depression and contractures, due to lack of activity for long periods.

How can I build muscle while bedridden?

Exercises for Hands, Arms and Shoulders:

  1. Palm Stretches. Palm stretches are one of the most basic exercises a bedridden patient can do. …
  2. Shrugging Shoulders. We shrug our shoulders every day. …
  3. Arm Raises (Forward and Lateral) …
  4. Bicep Curls. …
  5. Arm Crosses. …
  6. Wrist Rotation. …
  7. Arm Pushes. …
  8. Finger Bends and Spreads.


How can I strengthen my legs to walk again?

Open up step to the right bend the right knee keeping the left leg straight and step back into the middle all lunges strengthen all parts of the lower leg. Try front lateral.

How can I strengthen my legs when bedridden?

Leg exercises



Lie on your back and have your feet straight. Slowly bend your knees by sliding your ankle upwards. Slowly straighten your leg out, sliding your ankle downwards. Repeat this 10 times for each leg.

How long does it take to regain leg strength?

You’re likely to see some results two to four weeks after starting a leg exercise program. This includes slightly better stamina and a little muscular definition. However, depending on your starting fitness level, it usually takes three to four months to really notice and tell improvements in leg strength and stamina.

How do you rebuild weak leg muscles?

9 Best Exercises to Strengthen Your Legs

  1. Alternating Knee Lifts. It’s smart to start any strength training workout with an exercise that doubles as cardio and a muscle builder. …
  2. Squats. …
  3. Lunges. …
  4. Calf Raises. …
  5. Side Hip Raises. …
  6. Knee Extensions. …
  7. Knee Curls. …
  8. Leg Extensions.