10 Exercises for Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Recovery: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Pediatric patients who have undergone cardiac surgery require specialized care to ensure their proper recovery. In addition to monitoring their medications and nutrition, exercise is an important component of their rehabilitation. Proper exercise can help children improve their strength, flexibility, and overall health, while also reducing their risk of complications. Here are the top 10 exercises for pediatric patients after cardiac surgery:

1. Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that is safe for most pediatric patients after cardiac surgery. It can help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and increase endurance. Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration and distance as the child's strength and stamina improve.
2.  Breathing exercises: Breathing exercises can help strengthen the muscles used for breathing and improve lung function. Encourage children to take deep breaths and hold them for a few seconds before exhaling slowly.
3. Arm stretches: Gently stretching the arms can help improve the range of motion and reduce stiffness. Have the child extend their arms straight out in front of them and slowly raise them above their head, holding for a few seconds before lowering them back down.
4.  Leg stretches: Stretching the legs can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of blood clots. Have the child lie on their back and raise one leg at a time, holding it in the air for a few seconds before lowering it back down.
5. Shoulder shrugs: Shoulder shrugs can help improve posture and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders. Have the child raise their shoulders up to their ears, holding for a few seconds before relaxing them back down.
6. Sit-to-stand exercises: Sit-to-stand exercises can help improve leg strength and balance. Have the child sit on a chair and stand up, then sit back down, repeating for several repetitions.
7. Bike pedaling: Pedaling a stationary bike can help improve cardiovascular health and leg strength. Start with a few minutes of gentle pedaling and gradually increase the duration and intensity as the child's strength improves.
8. Treadmill walking: Walking on a treadmill can help improve endurance and cardiovascular health. Start with a slow speed and gradually increase the duration and speed as the child's strength and stamina improve.
9. Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness. However, children should avoid swimming until their surgical incisions are fully healed.
10. Yoga: Yoga sessions can help improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Encourage children to participate in gentle yoga poses that are appropriate for their age and abilities.

It is important for pediatric patients to exercise under the guidance of a healthcare professional who can monitor their progress and ensure their safety. Parents and caregivers can also play an important role in encouraging children to participate in exercise and helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle after cardiac surgery. By incorporating these exercises into their rehabilitation program, pediatric patients can improve their physical and emotional well-being and enjoy a better quality of life.

The physiotherapy expert Dr. Niraj Patel provides individuals with best-in-class quality treatment and effective exercises after Pediatric Cardiac Surgery.