arm

Hi I haven't had my PM too long (Aug 21) and this is probly a stupid question compared to most, but I do need to know. My Dr on my 2 week post opp check up said I can do anything now except raise my left arm straight up. But he didn't say how long till that heels and I would be able to extend it. Any suggestions or expiereance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you diane

6 Comments

Hi Diane welcome to the club

by Hot Heart - 2009-10-04 01:10:21

Not a silly question, its one that we have all gone through. I was told 6 weeks, but I got a bit paranoid and didnt tend to stretch it right up for a couple of months. I'm still always aware and I never overstretch it, but do use it properly. Take care HH

no dumb questions!

by Tracey_E - 2009-10-04 10:10:26

That's not a dumb question at all. They usually say to keep the left arm down anywhere from 4-6 weeks. This gives the leads time to grow into place. You can extend it, just don't lift anything over 5 lbs and don't raise it above shoulder level. After 6 weeks, anything goes!

My experience

by golden_snitch - 2009-10-04 10:10:56

Hi Diane,

if this is your first pm, you need to be careful a little longer than after replacement because newly placed leads are at risk to become lose when you raise your arm (suddenly). But from my experience - after five pacer surgeries with leads placed twice (transvenously and epicardially) - six to eight weeks should do. It's very important that you don't spare the shoulder too much or too long because then the shoulder joing stiffens. After my last three pacer surgeries I always had some physical therapy, and that helped a lot.

Best wishes
Inga

Hi Diane,

by GMan - 2009-10-05 08:10:18

I'm at 11/weeks and lifting my arm a little. But who cares? I use my right hand. I can't think of why I need to lift my arm over my head unless to strtch a little for exercise.

Gary

hi

by bradnissan - 2009-10-12 10:10:24

hi, I`m new to this, dr wants to put in a pm, I`m hesitant. I have afib sometimes and a normally slow rate, meds make it too slow. I live in orange county, ca, you are the first local person. how has this affected you emotionally, I`m scared as can be, no family around, littkle support. trying to do all the research I can to make the right decision

2 months

by Beckes76 - 2009-10-14 08:10:22

When I got my leads put in they told me not to drive for 2 weeks after surgery. Don't lift anything for a month and do not raise my left arm above the shoulder for 2 months. My DR told me to excersise my arm up to the shoulder a few times a day so it won't hurt as much. It all depends on how well you heal.

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