Arm Exercises With Sternal Precautions

The sternum -- which is commonly referred to as the breastbone -- lies on the front of the chest wall and attaches to the collarbone and ribs. Individuals who experience damage or trauma to the sternum, such as that which occurs during an accident or certain types of surgery, may be required to follow sternal precautions. In most cases, these limitations will be in place for four to eight weeks, as the sternum continues to heal. Be sure to alert your health-care team if you notice sternal instability or symptoms that may indicate infection during this time period.

Lifting Restrictions

• Individuals who are recovering from trauma to the sternum must follow specific lifting restrictions. In fact, Hawaii Pacific Health states that those who have undergone invasive cardiac surgery may not lift more than 10 pounds for four to eight weeks post-surgery. Those who want to maintain a resistance-training routine may be able to incorporate some arm exercises with light dumbbells, such as those which total 10 pounds or less. Using both arms to lift heavy objects -- either during resistance training or while performing activities of daily living -- can help prevent excess stress on the sternum, says Hawaii Pacific Health.

Aerobic Restrictions

• Individuals who enjoy aerobic arm exercises may also need to follow specific precautions following sternal trauma. Rowers, arm ergometers and ellipticals with arm levers are prohibited during the four- to eight-week recovery period, notes Hawaii Pacific Health. Instead, exercisers may want to opt for aerobic exercises that do not put stress on the sternum -- such as treadmills and stationary bicycles. Discontinue these activities if they cause pain or discomfort in the upper body.

Athletic Restrictions

• Athletic activities can place a great deal of stress on the arms and upper body. It should come as no surprise, then, that many of these events are restricted during sternal recovery periods. Bowling, golfing, swimming and racquet sports -- such as tennis or squash -- are especially dangerous for individuals with sternal precautions, and should be avoided at all costs. Transition slowly back to these activities after sternal precautions have been lifted to ensure optimal results in the recovery process.

Additional Recommendations

• Even those who follow sternal precautions to the "T" may still experience adverse events during sternal recovery. Individuals who notice redness along their sternal incision line may be suffering from an infection and should alert their health-care team as soon as possible. In addition, patients who experience an increase in shortness of breath, fever, soreness along their incision site, or clicking/clacking along the breastbone should discuss their symptoms with their physician. While it can be difficult to monitor for these adverse events, it is crucial to ensure optimal results following sternal trauma.