How Careful Do I need to be?

I got my PM three weeks ago and now that my surgery wound is getting much better and I am getting more active, I have begun to wonder just how careful I need to be about the implant site. The only information I received was to not engage in activity that results in "pressing" on the PM site. How easily can damage occur? If I bump into a wall, slapped on the chest, or hit during a pillow fight....will those things cause damage? Any insights?

Jack

4 Comments

when's the pillow fight?

by bambi - 2007-08-23 01:08:13

Sounds like fun! Seriously though- I don't think damage to the pacemaker itself is the cause for caution. Your pocket is still healing as well as the incision. Not only would it be pretty painful to hit or bump this area, but a pillow fight would be an activity that could pull out your leads at just 3 weeks post surgery. That's great that you're feeling so good to want to engage in activities! Keep posting!
Bambi

I think it's early yet!

by ela-girl - 2007-08-23 01:08:44

Hi, Jack!

That's great that you are feeling better, but I would continue to nurse yourself a bit and take an easy until the 6 week mark or you are released by your doctor. Especially watch your arm and be sure not to lift it over your shoulder. You don't want a longer recovery time and another surgery if you pull out your leads! You should also not be lifting anything more than 5-10 pounds until cleared, too. I agree with Bambi that your pocket is still healing, so you should be careful. I know after I was 3 weeks post-op I started to feel better, too, and it is hard to be patient sometimes...but it is in your best interest!

Happy pacing!
ela-girl

6 weeks

by randrews - 2007-08-23 09:08:06

Everyone says to wait 6 weeks. That is critical. I've had my pm for 5 months now and I wrestle with my kids and have had pillow fights. It's fine and I don't think I will cause the pm any damage but I do find that if I hit it directly on something it hurts still.
Have fun but be careful,
Rusty

Yes be carefull

by peter - 2007-08-24 05:08:15

You are advised to avoid contact sports. Rugby Tennis Cricket.etc. Alway be conscious of where your pacemaker is. A really hard knock from a car door top corner or a tail gate on your car for example could cause a problem.

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