Home Exercises Following Groin Lymph Node Dissection

These exercises will help you have full and easy movement of your hip(s) following your groin surgery. You may start doing these exercises after your drains are removed. They should be done 2 to 3 times per day. These exercises are not meant to hurt - do not strain and do not hold your breath. If you feel more pain after exercising, stop until you have talked to your provider.

1. Knee to Chest

Lie on your back on a flat surface. Bring your affected knee to your chest.

Hold 20 seconds.
Repeat 5 times.

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2. Bent Knee Fallout

Lie on your back and bend your affected knee. Slowly lower the bent
knee out to the side without moving your foot.

Hold for 20 counts, and then return to the starting position.
Repeat 5 times.

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3. Lower Trunk Rotation

With your feet on the floor and both knees bent, slowly lower your knees to one side.

Hold for 5 counts, and then bring them to the opposite side and hold for 5 counts. Repeat 5 times.

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4. Bridging

Bend your knees, lift your buttocks off the floor. Keep your stomach muscles tight. You should feel a comfortable stretch across your incision.

Hold 10 counts.
Repeat 5 times.

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These exercises should not be painful. If you are having more pain after exercise, please call your provider. You may need a referral to a physical therapist (PT).