Just started and need advice

[hazegirl]

Okay, so a week ago, I started going back to my nutritionist to help me loose some weight. Well, with that I also started trying to hit the gym on a regular basis.

Last week was horrible, my office was moving and so of course, I lifted more weight than I should. Plus I was going to the gym. I haven't done much of anything besides walking on the treadmill.

I've been flare free for at least six months and now its acting up again. I'm having issues with UTIs and I haven't had a UTI in 6 months either. I don't have health insurance right now so I can't see my doctor...Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I'm not eating anything different than what I have been. I just need help. I hate that I'm trying to make myself a better person...and I just get all this pain instead!

HELP!!!

[kadi]

HI Hazegirl:)
One of the frustrating things about IC is how easy it is to flare up:(
These things have worked for me:
Starting with yoga, "gentle" yoga classes.
The treadmill flares me, but the rowing & elliptical machines don't.
Starting really small: 10 min on rowing & 10 min on elliptical on lowest resistance settings & gradually working my way up.
If I'm already on the edge of a flare, I don't go to the gym, I do stretches at home or take a slow walk, if I'm up to it.

Wishing you better days soon!

[ese]

I really feel for you, and I understand completely! The best type of wokout that I have found is yoga. Target sells a kit (about $29 - but I've seen it on sale for as low as $15) with a large inflatable ball and a 30 minute video. The only problems that I had were the pelvic-type moves, but gradually it got better. It's also a great workout b/c it's quiet and not bouncy-bouncy. I'm a fairly high-strung person, but I actually enjoyed it!
As far as over the counter help, this is what I do when I've gotten sick of Drs (like right now!) and I'm flaring: I take Nyquil quite often - don't know why it works, but it does- and 600mg of Advil liquid gels every 6 hours (the liquid gels work MUCH better than the regular stuff). I also use a pain relieving gel "down there". Summer's Eve has a new pain relieving gel that works really well. The only problem is that it pees right off! :)
I hope you find some relief!
Good Luck!
Ese

[hazegirl]

Thanks! I will definately take it easy the next few days. I have a power yoga tape but I'm thinking I might need to get a different one. I love the elpitical...so I might go back to that. Thanks for the hints!

[ICLori]

Hi, Hazegirl, I second the elliptical trainer, it doesn't stress my bladder out at all, compared to other types of exercising.

Hope you feel better soon.

Blessings, Lori

[ICNDonna]

If you have a UTI, you are going to have to see a doctor to be treated --- otherwise it can take literally weeks to recover.

Donna

[CourtneyY]

I used to run 6-10 miles a day. I felt great and loved the runner’s high and loved my body. Gradually I got into more and more pain. I have finally given up running which is sad for me. But, I do use the eliptical for about 45min 3-4 times a week and walk on my lunch break. I actually had increased pain with a lot of yoga moves.I love the yoga exercises that strech the back and sides, but the ab strengthing exercises hurt my bladder. Riding a bike, even the stationary ones hurts me too much. I can ride my horse with out increased bladder pain...but it hurts my lower back.
Go slow....start out with 10 minute cardio..and at a pace you can comfortable talk at. I talk on my cell phone when I work out!
Good luck!

[Specs]

I used to flare up when I was just starting, but found that taking it in moderation and starting slowly really helps. I'm now up to doing weights 2 times a week and cardio (usually elliptical) 3 or 4 times a week.

The best thing to remember is.. Listen to your body! If you're flaring, take it easy. Go for a short walk, or if you can't do that, then just rest. But.. don't let IC become an excuse for not doing your exercise, because there's no better way for your body to heal itself than through proper eating and regular exercise.

[Julie B]

We had a physical therapist come to our local support group meeting in November. She gave some specific recommendations about yoga tapes and books. She also gave us a great site where you can order the low impact exercise equipment.......it is a fun site to look at.

Here are pictures of the meeting on my website:

Beaumont November 2004 meeting - Sherry McLaughlin, PT (http://nutraconsults.com/Beaumont%20IC%20Support%20Group.html)

[Sherry5]

I used to do high impact step aerobics on a double step and kick boxing. Needless to say I can't do that anymore. I use the eliptical trainer now, and do wights. I also have learned to LOVE yoga! It stretches my body and and relaxes me. two days a week I do the yoga class after my usual workout. It really helps. Good luck!