Just got my first PM 3 days ago. I am in a sling now so the leads can heal. How lon before i can go for long walks? Also, how long before I can lift weights again?

Thanks!

 

 

All drs vary, but rule of thumb...
-you can lose the sling now, most drs only have us in it for 24 hrs

-assuming you don't have other health problems, walking is ok as soon as you feel up to it, but run it by your dr first.

- lifting weights, 6-8 weeks.

It's usually ok to start light aerobic exercise and it's good to use the left arm immediately, but don't lift on the left side (assuming your device is on the left) or raise the arm above shoulder level for 6 weeks so the leads have time to grow into place.

 

The above advice is what I was told.
They should have went over this upon discharge.
One hard piece of advice: Do not cheat and keep that arm below the shoulder.
The sling is only to help you not to forget and because most people when sleeping do just that.

 

I walked about a mile the day after getting the pacemaker and was up to 3 miles a couple of days later. It is really a matter of how much the bouncing along is painful. In my case I picked up a better sling at the drugstore for more support. The hospital thing was useless.

I gave my wife the job of warning me about stretching my arm above shoulder height. She threatened to tie the arm down! Don’t panic if you forget. The chances of pulling a lead lose is really pretty small. In fact my cardio didn’t have a problem with full use after about 2 weeks, which is unusual.

frank

 

Always ask your Dr. first, but you should be fine for the walking.
As far as the lifting? At least 6-8 weeks. Ask your Doc to be sure.
Liz