Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Necrotizing fasciitis? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with Necrotizing fasciitis to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have Necrotizing fasciitis


Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that affects the soft tissues of the body, including the skin, muscles, and underlying fascia. It is characterized by rapid tissue destruction and can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly. Given the severity of this condition, it is crucial to prioritize medical treatment and follow the advice of healthcare professionals.



When affected by necrotizing fasciitis, engaging in physical exercise may not be advisable during the acute phase of the infection. The primary focus should be on receiving appropriate medical care, including surgical intervention, antibiotics, and wound management. Physical activity can potentially exacerbate the condition, increase the risk of complications, and hinder the healing process.



However, once the acute phase has passed and the infection is under control, exercise can play a role in the recovery process. It is important to note that the timing and type of exercise should be determined by a healthcare professional who is familiar with the individual's specific condition and overall health.



Low-impact exercises that do not put excessive strain on the affected areas are generally recommended during the recovery phase. These exercises can help improve circulation, maintain muscle tone, and promote overall well-being. Some suitable activities may include:




  • Walking: Taking regular walks at a comfortable pace can help improve cardiovascular fitness and promote healing.

  • Swimming: Swimming or water aerobics can provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints and muscles.

  • Cycling: Riding a stationary bike or cycling outdoors can be beneficial for cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on the affected areas.

  • Yoga or stretching: Engaging in gentle stretching exercises or practicing yoga can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation.



It is crucial to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise as tolerated. Listening to the body's signals and avoiding any activities that cause pain, discomfort, or excessive fatigue is essential. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene and proper wound care during exercise is vital to prevent any potential complications.



While exercise can be beneficial during the recovery phase, it is important to emphasize that each case of necrotizing fasciitis is unique, and individual circumstances may vary. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before initiating any exercise regimen.


by Diseasemaps

Follow your Physical Therapist recommendations.

7/28/20 by Necrotizing Fasciitis Foundation

Not till in recovery and then your PT will give you exercises

3/9/17 by Tim Timmy 2575

I think its important to start out with exercise that you are comfortable doing, but increase as you heal. If you dont try to keep mobile, it will be harder to regain strength and muscles will get sluggish if not used. Intensity of exercise should be discussed with a medical doctor who is knowledgeable in this area. Each person is different, and of course, it depends on what area has been affected. I think its important to keep reaching for improvement, don't let one bad day get you down.

3/9/17 by Lauriann 1000

You will be unable to exercise while you are losing body parts.

3/29/17 by Elizabeth 1000

Yes, physical exercise is needed to heal.

7/28/20 by Hayden72 4070

Yes to get your health back, however start slowly

7/28/20 by Georgia 1600

Dependent on extent and location of injury. I was fortunate to be able to use a NuStep machine, recumbent elliptical, which allowed me to sit and still work my full body. Each person will have a personalized exercise or rehab program.

10/1/20 by Tammy 1950

Exercise very lightly at first, it's not a race, little steps You will find all your strength has gone, so slowly increase exercise to build stamina. Physiotherapist will devise a program to help

10/10/20 by Philip 1150

Depending on how much overall strength you have you should be involved with physical therapy. As you recover physical therapy should be looked at as your job. It will change the rest of your life. It hurts, I know it does, but some pain now is going to give you more movement in the future. Get up, do your job, appreciate every extra movement you can do, give yourself credit, and don’t worry if you have a plateau or slide backwards a little bit. You can do it!!!!

1/9/21 by Colleen 1300

Yes, yes, yes. Exercise is one of the best things survivors can do. Depending on where you were infected will dictate what you can do but there is always something. I'm my case anything sitting, or stretching of buttock made it difficult to do things like squats, sit ups, etc.. So instead I used hand weights for upper body. After a while I could walk longer which kept my legs strong as well. Do whatever you can. Utilizing a PT would be advised for severe cases.

3/23/21 by NF Survivor 400

Excerzing is good. Do what you can. Stay healthy. Move it or lose it

9/23/21 by Karen 2450

I personally could not exercise while I was in the hospital. I was on bereft for almost the whole 3 weeks I was in the hospital. It was very difficult to learn to walk again afterwards

12/18/21 by Celia 2200

Top questions

What is the life expectancy of someone with Necrotizing fasciitis?

Celebrities with Necrotizing fasciitis

Is Necrotizing fasciitis hereditary?

Is Necrotizing fasciitis contagious?

Is there any natural treatment for Necrotizing fasciitis?

View more questions of Necrotizing fasciitis

World map of Necrotizing fasciitis


Find people with Necrotizing fasciitis through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Necrotizing fasciitis community.

There are 148 people in the map. View Map of Necrotizing fasciitis