Rucksacks and pacemakers

Hi.I've just had a pacemaker fitted (not sub-mammary as I didn't know to ask about this). I do a lot of hillwalking and need a fairly heavy rucksack for Scottish winters. Has anyone used Softtouch on rucksack strap? And does this protect the pm enough?? I'd prefer to keep everything away from pm but imagine that an asymmetric sack or balance pockets might fell a bit lop-sided? I'd be very grateful for any practical advice or experience please.

Also wondered if there are any members in the Edinburgh area?
Fiona
Scotland

5 Comments

wires

by Tracey_E - 2013-11-10 03:11:52

There are a very few people who have their pm very close to the surface and the wires protrude so yes, they need to take care. Most people have it low/deep enough that it's not an issue.

I love to hike, also. I got my first pm in 1994 so I've had a few more years than you to get used to it, to push limits and learn from experience that we aren't going to hurt it. I rarely give it a thought now. It really doesn't have to keep us from doing anything we want to do!

Thank you

by FionaB - 2013-11-10 04:11:31

Thanks very much, Bill and Tracey. That's very reassuring and I'll try some sheepskin too. Best wishes Fiona

try it

by Tracey_E - 2013-11-10 08:11:29

Don't worry about protecting the pm. It's titanium, you aren't going to hurt it. Your skin will bruise long before the pm is damaged. Go for what is comfortable. We're all built differently so once you heal, give it a try. Some people don't have any problems. There are some really nice packs now with one strap but they may not hold enough. They also make packs with adjustable torsos so you may be able to find one that fits comfortably.

You have lots of sheep!

by BillMFl - 2013-11-10 09:11:04

Get a couple of sheep skin pads that attach with Velcro. Nothing like a thick layer of wool to soften the load. I don't worry about the pm, but my leads are just under the skin and I use the pads to protect them. I use the same type of pads on my seat belt too.

Rucksacks and pacemakers

by FionaB - 2013-11-10 09:11:20

Thanks, Tracey. I've read concerns about disconnecting the pm from the wires so that was in my mind too! Very grateful for your can-do approach and I just want to get a system where I can enjoy normal activities again. Best wishes
Fiona

You know you're wired when...

You make store alarms beep.

Member Quotes

So, my advice is to go about your daily routine and forget that you have a pacemaker implanted in your body.