Catheter Ablation recovery

[CycloparkRunner7]

My post to the group.

I had my Catheter Ablation on 25th July, all ok and back into Sinus Rhythm. Previously been running for 15yrs. I would like some advise on returning to running; ie when to start back safely so as not to revert to Atrial Fibrillation.

My last run was 22nd July, also because of my Atrial Fibrillation my 5 & 10km times have tumbled. Not interested in fast race running anymore, but something in keeping with my age profile

[Gerry15]

I would urge you to contact your cardiac team first of all concerning a return to running. Your ablation procedure will need time to heal inside the heart and, just like a burn/abrasion on the skin outside the body that can be seen, will need care and attention to ensure full healing.

Having said all that, well done for wanting to continue running. Like you I’m a runner but with a pacemaker and have had to accept slower times.

What helped me after a full eight week healing process was to start by running/jog/ walk for one minute out and one minute return. Next day, two minutes out and two minutes return. You get the pattern. If at any time I felt strange ( I didn’t’) then back to the beginning.

Also, measure your heart recovery rate after exercise which can be done very simply either by counting your pulse for fifteen seconds then times by four, or use a smart watch. If your heart rate returns to its ‘normal’ resting rate within twenty seconds all good.

This is all very generalised but you can find far more detailed information by googling heart rate recovery.

Good luck with your running but please allow yourself a full recovery time.

[CycloparkRunner7 in reply to Gerry15]

Thanks for the advice. I’m on day 7 at the moment, slow steady walks each day, increasing distance each time, only 2km today, but not pushing it.

I’ve got a Cardio appointment on 16th September, so will ask the running question then. I quite content to run slower from now on, great for stress relief and mindfulness.

We have been doing Yoga for over ten years, but even this will wait till about week 6 as some of the moves are quite demanding. I’ll do gentle twisting and relaxation from next week.

Thanks 🏃🏼🙏

[Driver11]

Hi Same age with CA 6yrs ago and AF on and off for 4yrs.6 cardioversion and 2 ablations

Difficult to return to normal life because of fear not because things may go wrong

My advice is do what you are comfortable with and don't overdo it

Good luck

[CycloparkRunner7 in reply to Driver11]

Thanks for your reply. Listen to your own body, if it feels wrong back off & rest.

Good luck with recovery and future treatments 🙏🙏