Exercise with PN/PNE

[chemjim]

I can see that this topic comes up from time to time, but what do you do for exercise with PN/PNE?
I was an avid cyclist until the pain arrived suddenly. I'm grateful to be able to say that my pain is managed fairly well with amitriptyline and Lyrica. (amitriptyline seems to help the most, but side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, weight gain, poor visual accommodation have been problems). Anyway, as long as I avoid sitting too much (my employer was generous enough to provide me with a standing desk) and many other forms of activity, my pain levels are in the 2-4 range. However, I've put on >20 pounds, and bp and cholesterol are going up right with it. For crying out loud, I started cycling to lose weight and bring those other problems under control. Now I can take long walks - no hills - without too much difficulty, but the pounds keep coming. I see people have had some success with swimming. Is there anything else folks have done with doesn't cause a flareup?

Jim

[Violet M]

Well, Jim, it looks like none of us have any good ideas beyond walking and swimming. These are the two main exercises that generally aren't contraindicated for people with PNE. Maybe you could do some upper body weights or rowing machine?

[fangshi]

Hi, I am not sure if I suffer from Pudendal Neuropathy yet, but I think its related because I share many symptoms.

But for me running, body-weight exercises and light weight lifting makes me feel better, it relieves muscletension, makes me feel more energetic and in general has a positive effect.

Are you saying that in classical PN sufferers exercise aggravates symptoms or it should just be avoided?

[Violet M]

Fangshi, exercise can be one of the causes of PNE. Weightlifting is what caused PNE in my case and is one of the exercises to avoid if you have PNE. If you are experiencing PNE-type symptoms and you are a weightlifter, you probably want to see a physicial therapist who is trained to treat people with pudendal neuralgia for an evaluation of your pelvic floor muscles, pelvic ligaments (stability), and pelvic alignment.

Violet