returning to exercise after recent ICD placement

[LucyLaundry]

Good morning

Following a VF arrest about 4 weeks ago I’ve now got an ICD fitted. Before the arrest I was running 10km every day and going to various exercise classes at our local Sports Centre

Being active was sort of my thing. I’ve got an appointment with the Cardiac Rehabilitation team in a couple of weeks but I’ve already had conflicting advice as to what I should be doing and what I can expect

Anyone got any hints or tips for getting back to an active life?

I know we are all individuals and I know I have to listen to the health professionals. I understand that there are broad guidelines that are designed to keep us safe during our recovery but I’d be really interested to hear how other people have bounced back

Many thanks

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

The Cardiac Rehab is just the service you need! They are trained and experienced in exercise work for cardiac patients, and will guide you each step of the way, to get back to your best level of fitness, but not taking risks. They are there to answer your questions. I also gave and received encouragement and great support from the others there.

[Zbignieva]

Hi Lucy,

Same same. While I was only running 5 km outside through this last winter (I think the severity of my stenosis was impacting my CV fitness), I was doing strength and HIIT training 4-7 times per week.

I know it is unclear, however this is the issue: in-stent thrombosis.

The risk now is much lower than it used to be with the drug-eluding stents and dual anti-platelet therapy, but there is still a risk in the first year (it is either <1 or 3% from memory).

From research/experience , we know that activity/exercise can be a trigger for cardiovascular events.

The cardiac rehab team has a lot of experience in this area, so follow their advice and they will assess you and get you back to running within what they know to be safe parameters.

I am walking quite a bit and my yoga practice is really inspiring me, I can now hold crow pose for about 5 seconds, something I haven’t been able to do for decades.

After assessment by the cardiac rehab team, I have also been given the all clear to walk/jog (almost all exercises) as long as my HR does not get above 125.

Just trust the process and enjoy your recovery.🙂

[LucyLaundry in reply to Zbignieva]

Thank you very much ZbignievaThat’s really interesting re thrombosis, it all adds to my understanding of what’s happening to me and how I can adapt going forward

I’m looking forward to the Cardiac Rehabilitation appointment so I can get some appropriate advice on how to move forward

Hope your recovery continues

Cheers