Post LCD & Pacemaker Shoulder Exercises

Although pacemakers and LCDs (internal defibrillators) can help save your life after a cardiac event such as a heart attack, that is not to say that these devices are not without consequence. According to a study published in the October 1999 edition of the Journal of Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology, implantation of pacemakers and other LCD devices can lead to development of a "frozen shoulder," a stiffening of the joint that requires manual therapy -- such as exercise -- to treat.
  1. Stretching to the Front and Back

    • Perform regular shoulder-stretching drills to alleviate the symptoms of a frozen shoulder, providing some relief from the side effects of your pacemaker implant. According to information from the University of Washington Sports Medicine School, aim to perform shoulder stretching at least once per day, and again if you feel the joint begin to tighten up unexpectedly.

      The most basic exercise is the overhead stretch. While standing or seated in a comfortable position, clasp your hands together in front of your body, keeping the elbows locked. Initiate the movement by bringing your arms up in an arc over your head, stopping when you feel anything more than mild discomfort. Hold in the peak position for 10 to 15 seconds, repeating the drill two to three times to reach your full range of motion. After performing shoulder stretching to the front of your body, repeat the exercise with your hands clasped behind your body (raising them upward toward the ceiling) to stretch your shoulders from another angle.

    Lateral Stretching

    • Perform lateral (cross-body) stretching to work the joint through another angle, further improving the symptoms of frozen shoulder. Take the affected arm and hold it across your chest, "locking" it into place by using your other arm to cup it around the elbow, pulling the arm closer to your body and accentuating the stretch. Hold here for 10 to 15 seconds, repeating two or three times (and with both arms to keep your flexibility even).

      After completing the cross-body stretch, stretch your arm laterally to the outside by using a wall for support. Stand facing a wall, holding your arms out to either side at shoulder height. Press your chest and arms against the wall, then turn your torso slowly away from the injured arm while keeping the arm held tightly against the wall. You should feel a strong stretch in your shoulder and chest. Hold here for 10 to 15 seconds, repeating two or three times to complete your frozen shoulder workout.

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