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Exercise and Prednisone


Mon, December 01, 2008 2:55 PM

Okay so now I'm currently on a series of Prednisone with decreasing doses over a series of time.  My doctor told me that while my ability to workout and such is not inhibited by my Crohn's, but I'm worried about being on Prednisone and training.  I'm on a collegiate crew team and our coach works us really hard with 2 workouts everyday.  I'm wondering if this may be too extreme, especially with the drugs that I'm on and the resulting stress that the intense workouts put on my body in general.  I will be talking things over with my coach tomorrow morning but was just wondering what anyone else thought.  Any input is much appreciated.  Thanks.  PS - I just came off my first flare-up which was pretty hardcore.

FPO heckyeah09
Joined Nov 23, 2008

Mon, January 05, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for heckyeah09.

I have been working out while on prednisone and other medications for the past 20 years, and never had any problems.  I find working out helps me emotionally and builds confidence.  My symptoms usually go away during a work out.  Weight training and calcium with vitamin D can also prevent osteoporosis, which can occur from the chronic disease and prednisone.  I recommend you exercise, eat well, and consult with your doctor and team.

FPO artie
Joined Jan 5, 2009

Thu, December 18, 2008 12:04 AM

 Reply posted for NJgal.

Hi there.  I'm currently doing in grad school for exercise physiology and, because I've been on prednisone A LOT, I've done some research into the effects of prednisone on exercise.  I would only have two real concerns in your situation.  First of all, really intense workouts suppress your immune system for a number of hours after exercise.  Combined with immunosuppression, you may want to be more careful than usual when it comes to hand-washing, bundling up, and the like.  Do your best to stay healthy.  Get your vitamin C, take your vitamins (children's if you are having absorption issues).  Now for the second concern, prednisone can cause increased muscle soreness and even some muscle weakness.  So, you might actually be decreasing the weight that you lift during your leg workouts.  Please make your coach and trainers aware of your condition.  Also, work with the team physician and dietician.  Let them know your situation and ask for advice.  Good luck and have a happy winter break!

FPO fruitloop
Joined Nov 2, 2008

Tue, December 09, 2008 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for heckyeah09.

Only wya you'll know for sure isif you try, I'm sure it will be fine, just listen to your body.

 

FPO pb4
Joined Apr 8, 2008

Tue, December 02, 2008 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for heckyeah09.

I have always been incredibly active.  My activity level never changed due to the medications I have taken.  I only decreased my workouts during flares when my body wasn't able to keep up with the demand.

FPO kar
Joined Aug 4, 2008

Mon, December 01, 2008 4:53 PM

 Reply posted for heckyeah09.

Those flare-ups can take your breath away.....I was on 40mg prednisone and then taperd off 2x this year.  I'm 55 yrs and I make myself exercise 3-5x a week.  I haven't felt out of sorts or grown huge muscles.  Don't let the crohns hold you back just pace yourself. Your body will tell you when it needs a break.   I'm currently on 1mg prenisone and remicade IV infusions.  They combo works good for me with the exception of sporadic severe back aches.

Stay positive and enjoy yourself...

FPO njgal
Joined Jul 26, 2008

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