Ask a Texas Heart Institute Doctor
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Question:
Does mitral valve prolapse prohibit weight lifting or running? I have Mitral Valve Prolapse. I want to start getting in shape. Can I lift weights or run?
submitted by Mike, from Atlanta, Georgia, 2/3/09
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, J. Alberto Lopez, MD 
It depends less on the mitral prolapse and more on the severity of any mitral valve insufficiency (leaking) that may be present. Aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling are probably okay for the large majority of persons, even with some valvular insufficiency. On the other hand, weight lifting, squatting and any exercise that significantly increases the abdominal and thoracic pressures should be avoided.
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Updated February 2009
