Weightlifting alternatives

I just had my pacemaker replaced a few days ago. My doctor told me that I should not have been lifting like I have been after he talked to my family after my surgery. I never was told any restrictions before and now no overhead presses (military presses, bench press or inclines) as the repetitive motion would stress the main lead and possibly fracture it. They replaced the secondary lead when they replaced my pacemaker. I have lifted all these years (I am 45 years old) and I have competed in bodybuilding before (which I can do without)...but this not doing any bench or shoulder or back exercises is already screwing with me mentally. This has always been my stress reliever. Is there any doctors out there that know of any other way to hit the chest, shoulders and back muscles without putting stress on the main lead wire? I can do without maxing out on benching and all of that now. I just want to maintain what I do have. I don't want to waste away to a stick figure but only if I have no choice. I need help before I get even further depressed about this.

3 Comments

Website

by batteryrequired - 2007-06-29 03:06:38

Here is a link to my website on Bodybuilder.com so that you can see what I need help with hopefully.

http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/batteryrequired/

Thanks in advance for any help.

Lifter

by randrews - 2007-06-30 10:06:54

Hi,
I don't really know much about lifting but I remember I read about a website called cardiacathlete.org. I've only looked at it quickly but perhaps it will help. Can you do less weight but real slow reps to stress your muscles.
Take care,
Rusty

Weight Lifting

by julzteachey - 2007-08-04 11:08:08

My doctor simply emphasized how important it was not to lift more than 5 pounds with my left arm and not to lift it above horizontal for 6 - 8 weeks. I washed my hair with one arm and had to find a hair dryer stand to help dry my hair but I am now at 12 weeks. I am carefully getting back into normal (non-contact) activities. I would think that after 2 months you could slowly work back up to about 75% of what you were lifting but allow the lead to heal properly and get a solid connection in your heart before you worry about your physique.
PS. I am also 45 and getting a PM so young is enough to make you a little depressed but just appreciate what medicine can do for us and don't push it too much too soon. J. Teachey

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