Arm pain

recovery

by Tracey_E - 2017-09-02 13:13:54

Everyone varies in how much pain they have after, but some need more pain meds than others. Have you been icing? I found that helped even more than the pills. 

Recovery post procedure

by Ozzie - 2017-09-05 17:47:52

Hi Skyedad,

   No need for you to worry about your post op procedure. I too had my ICD implanted in April this year and was subjected to the same symptoms. It is important to keep your arm in the 'down' position, so much so, that I tied my dressing gown cord around my waist and attached to my wrist when in bed at night.

    Your pain will get better over the next few months when the scar tissue heals and the implant settles in place. However, once you gain more freedom of movement, you may experience a dull ache in your left shoulder which may be due to the inactivity of your arm. Again this will become less the more you use the arm.

Any problems contact your cardio nurse or consultant and they should give you the advice you are seeking.

   I hope I have been of some reassurance.

   Best of Luck

  Ozzie

Arm/shoulder pain

by JB970221 - 2017-09-14 02:11:07

Hi Skyedad.  I got my pacemaker 2 weeks ago and wanted to comment on your arm/shoulder pain.  I was told "no overhead activity" with my left arm for at least a couple weeks after getting the pacemaker.  I wore an arm sling for 7 days after surgery.  Did a few gentle exercises but nothing over my head.  After 7 days doc said I could remove the sling, and I was so relieved, untl I tried carefully to move my arm upwards gently and cried out with the worst pain I have ever experienced.  Went to my general doctor and he said I had developed "frozen shoulder", also known as adhesive capsulitis. I decided to exercise and try to help myself on my own without going to a physical therapist.  After 8 days of total pain in my shoulder, lots of hot showers while gently doing range of motion exercises and pain pills, I am so glad to say I have about 50 percent more movement.  I will continue my exercises until I regain all of my shoulder movement.  I found lots of exercises on the internet. Wish someone would have told me the shoulder will become frozen if not moved for a whole week.  I was just trying to be really careful!!  As always, check with your doctor first before starting exercises, etc.  Good luck to you and I wish you the best.