shoulder and upper arm discomforts

I had my pacemaker put in over 6 months ago I have noticed over the past month I am getting non cardiac shoulder pain that goes half way down my arm between the shoulder and the elbow depending how I move it with limited range of motion.  The PM was put in on the left side.  Any one else been through this.  I am 46 yo female


4 Comments

Frozen shoulder

by Gotrhythm - 2018-04-19 13:55:33

If we restrict the movement of the arm and shoulder too much and for too long after pacemaker surgery, we can wind up with a condition called frozen shoulder. Becaue they are not being moved and stretched the tendons and ligaments become shortened and very tight. The longer it is untreated, the more painful it becomes, and the more movement is restricted.

Deep tissue massage and gentle, stow stretching can be helpful. You can fine range of motion shoulder exercises online.

You might want to consult an orthopedist and/or get physical therapy.

pain

by kmg021 - 2018-04-20 10:55:22

I have been ensured it is not cardiac related and the EP has referred me to PT.   Thank you for you advice

Same

by Mugz1221 - 2018-04-20 18:36:00

I too have this pain. I'm 6 months post op now. I was in therapy and then stopped which was a bad idea. My cardiologist performed a stress test to assure me my heart is perfectly fine. I was one to go to ER Everytime I felt any shoulder or arm pain. I also live in Erie PA where warmer weather has yet to come. My cardiologist and doctor say between lack of activities and cold air I have muscle issues. Yes it still scares me Everytime but I read the letter from my cardiologist assuring me I'm healthy. I would strongly suggest going into physical therapy. It will work

6 weeks post op - also sore

by RoseOfOz - 2018-04-30 08:56:29

Hey I took the six week thing literally- and didn't fully stretch my arm till last week - but was otherwise active. But I did some "moving stuff around" the house on the weekend and have a sore spot in my upper arm - and it hurts to move it more now ... like I strained a bicep or something. Just massaging it at present. Didn't feel like I over did it. 

But it feels like the pacemaker site got a Bit annoyed with me 🙁

You know you're wired when...

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