A common question of patients with an ICD is wanting to know if it is safe to exercise. The simple answer is yes, however a full answer depends upon your type of arrhythmia and your proposed exercises.

          Unfortunately some ICD patients are not offered a cardiac rehabilitation programme and are deprived of advice and guidance. The Arrhythmia Alliance have produced a booklet “Physical activity and exercise advice for patients with an ICD” which is available either by post or download from the Arrhythmia Alliance. The booklet answers many of the questions you may ask and is recommended reading.

          Patients who decide to maintain exercise through a keep fit center or gymnasium are advised to ensure that the center has staff with a British Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation (BACR) Phase IV certificate. The BACR, supported by the British Heart Foundation, has developed the Phase IV training course for community based exercise instructors. The aim of the course is to equip students with the requisite knowledge and skills to prescribe and deliver safe and effective exercise for individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD) who have already benefited from a hospital based rehabilitation programme.

          The implantation of an ICD is a surgical intrusion and in most cases the physical after effects are minimal. In some cases, there can be some form of pain around the incision and the surrounding muscle area including the shoulder and upper arm. If not dealt with properly, a frozen shoulder may be experienced.

          At our second meeting, Nicola Knowles, a Chartered Physiotherapist gave a presentation of Exercise regimes after an ICD implant and in particular the physiotherapy exercises that need to be done after an implant to prevent a frozen shoulder. Click on the image to view the complete presentation.

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