Running Post-robotic prostate surgery

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Long time listener first time caller? Something like that. Just looking for some others experiences with returning to running/biking after robotic surgery.
Short version of my story-49-find Prostate cancer b/c of a bike accident-weird-more for another time. Was diagnosed in March-Gleason of 7-removed in May and now at 11 weeks out. Was doing ok (down to 2 shields/day when walking as workout only) after 5 weeks then did too much lifting and yard work and went back 5 weeks (3-4 pads/day). Am now back to 2-3 shields per day wearing all day.
I was in the midst of training for my fourth Ironman Triathlon in 2019 when the bike accident derailed that. Began training again in Jan 2020 for this Sept. and then the cancer. Covid deferred the race to 2021 so want to return to training levels by January. (weekly-3-5miles swimming/200 biking/40 running)

OK now the question- want to return to running-currently walking 5-8 miles/day over 2-3 separate walks. Wondering about others experiences returning to running and what products worked for them. I know I will probably go backwards with some control but hoping the body will retrain itself. Anyone have any experience returning to higher level distance running post surgery? Any tips/thoughts are appreciated.

And waiting on the bike for week 12- then 5min/day adding 5min/day each week-
I miss my bike and I miss my running shoes
THANK YOU

 

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I am 70 and had surgery just over a year ago (Aug 2019). I am not a triathlete nor do I run anymore but do ride a stationary bike. I believe in exercise (after being pushed by physician) as I found it helped my diabetes and have been at it for many years. My current cycle is a Precor upright bought about 8 years ago and for a song. Prior to surgery my goal was 5 days a week for an hour and held to that fairly well. Post surgery I stopped cycling. Changed to walking daily. Dealing with bladder leakage was rather consuming. My reduction in activity also allowed me to put on about 10 lbs. that I didn't need. Last Dec decided it was time to get back on the cycle. This was challenging. I found cycling caused more leakage and was hard on bladder control as my leakage overall was improving. Post surgery I used diapers with pads for added help. It took weeks but I was able to return to level 12 cycle resistance and 5 days per week. But I wasn't losing any weight. So last Feb I decided to change my workout to 7 days a week and allow myself to do shorter workouts if necessary and to watch food intake. This change has worked to my advantage. About 3 months later I dropped the diapers and men's pads and now use my Hanes underwear with smaller female pads. I still push myself 7 days a week on the cycle. Slowly increased resistance to level 13 in steps. Now can do a full workout at level 13. Thinking about starting level 14. I have lost all the weight I put on and am even a couple pounds less than pre-surgery...and would like to loss more. Cycling still causes leakage. Post cycling there is sort of a recovery time. When I go to take a leak I find my bladder does not empty completely. Overall I still use (need) the pad in my underwear. Coughing, sneezing or getting in and out of cars is still a challenge but I've greatly improved and learned to live with my situation. Hopefully, still to improve.

 

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I’m glad to learn, as I’ve also read in other posts, that I’m not the only one who struggles to be continent when getting in and out of vehicles, and when exercising. The car thing happens more frequently and is more aggravating because it’s so public. I’ve definitely changed the way I get in and out of cars because of damage/scoliosis in my lumbar spine. I think I must look ridiculous, so I’m always embarrassed when I’m in a car with another person other than my parents.

 

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@Mxblues98

I like how you started your post. Clever. Sounds like you are on the way to improvement and your goal of competing in an Ironman. That is awesome!!! Tough Mudder is about as extreme I have gotten in participating in an organized specialty athletic event. It was awesome and I was drained by the end.

Best of luck to you in your continued conditioning routine as you reach your goal.

JT

 

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Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement. Went today and AM walk was 2 miles- ran the last 1/4 of each mile w/no issues. Repeated tonight with 3 mile walk. Let the process begin. Now for the bike build. 2021 IM Wisconsin for fourth time is the goal. A journey of 1000 miles (or 140.6) starts with a single step.

 

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Hi MxBlues98,


My husband used to struggle with this and he used feminine hygiene pads or other homemade remedies. I recently came across a new product called MDP (Male Drip Protection) and I'm happy I did. It is designed specifically for active lifestyles and uses 2 straps to attach right to the penis. Works great for drips and dribbles and especially when moving around a lot. If you search on google I am sure you can find them.

 

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Just wanted to update that things are improving. It has been a process and what worked for me was sticking with the Kegels (every time I go to the bathroom I finish with 10x). Also keeping a positive attitude- it is called "stress incontinence" for a reason. Have improved and started running full time the last two weeks-not where I was BUT I have always said Moving is a good thing. Had some "mild issues" with returning to school under current conditions and not wanting to bring anything home to my wife, puppy, or our parents. To all who are struggling- it will get better-stay positive and things will happen when the time is right. Good luck to all and THANK YOU TO THE NAFC and all who have posted and replied to me on various posts here. My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you go through this-you are not alone.