Safe Recovery After Cardiac Device Implantation: Your Path to Strength
- Jamie Pickett
- Sep 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 3
Understanding Cardiac Devices
If you’ve had a pacemaker, ICD, S-ICD, or CRT device fitted, careful movement and a progressive return to activity are essential for a safe recovery. In the first 4–6 weeks, avoid heavy lifting and overhead arm use on the implant side. Keep your wound protected and gradually build up walking and light activity. Long term, most people can enjoy moderate exercise (Borg RPE 9–13) with only a few restrictions.
What Are Cardiac Devices?
ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator): This device detects and treats dangerously fast heart rhythms with pacing or a shock.
S-ICD (Subcutaneous ICD): This device sits under the skin without leads into the heart. It delivers shocks but does not pace the heart.
CRT (Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy): This device coordinates the contractions of the left and right ventricles. It is sometimes combined with defibrillator function (CRT-D).
These devices significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest and help regulate heart rhythm. However, they require short-term movement precautions while the leads and wound heal.
Early Movement Guidance (First 4–6 Weeks)
Arm Movements
For ICD/CRT with leads: Avoid lifting your elbow above shoulder height on the implant side. Gentle mobility below shoulder height is encouraged.
For S-ICD: There are fewer restrictions, but still avoid strong pressure or heavy stretching near the wound until it has healed.
Wound Care
Keep the site clean and dry. Avoid tight clothing that rubs against the wound. Healing usually takes about 6 weeks.
Lifting
Avoid heavy lifting, such as shopping bags or weights. Stick to light loads only.
Walking
Daily walking is safe and encouraged. Start with 5–10 minutes and progress gradually.
Driving
Restrictions vary, especially for ICDs implanted after a cardiac arrest. Always check DVLA guidance and consult your healthcare team.
"A little progress each day adds up to big results." – Satya Nani
Long-Term Movement & Exercise
Aerobic Exercise
Aim for 150 minutes per week of light-to-moderate activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, once healed. A Borg RPE of 9–13 is a safe target.
Strength Training
Strength training is safe after 6 weeks. Start light and progress slowly. Avoid breath-holding (Valsalva manoeuvre).
Swimming
Swimming is safe once wounds are fully healed. Avoid swimming alone until you regain confidence.
Sports
Walking, golf, bowls, tai chi, yoga, and cycling are suitable activities. Avoid contact sports, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or high-impact training due to the risk of trauma or inappropriate shocks.
Warm-up and Cool-down
Extend both warm-up and cool-down phases to lower the risk of arrhythmias.
Safety Considerations
Shock Events
If you receive 1–2 shocks but feel well, contact your device clinic for a review. If you experience multiple shocks or feel unwell, call 999 immediately.
Medical ID
Carry your device ID card at all times for safety.
Travel & Lifestyle
Airports
Walk steadily through scanners, show your device card, and ask for a hand search if needed.
Equipment
Most appliances are safe, but avoid strong magnets, welding, or leaning over car alternators.
ICD Patient Info
Phones
Keep your phone at least 6 inches away from the device and use the opposite ear for calls.
Sexual Activity
It is safe to resume sexual activity. Any possible shocks will not harm your partner.
Emotional Wellbeing
Feeling anxious about shocks, device awareness, or exercise is common. Cardiac rehabilitation sessions, counselling, and patient support groups can help restore your confidence.
"Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up." – Brené Brown
SMART Challenges
Short-term (First 6 Weeks)
Take a daily 10–15 minute walk, keeping effort at RPE 9–11 (“very light to fairly light”). Keep your implant-side arm below shoulder level.
Long-term (By 12 Weeks Post-implant, Once Cleared)
Achieve 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity and add 2 weekly strength sessions at RPE 12–14.
References & Further Reading
Arrhythmia Alliance: ICD / CRT / S-ICD Booklet
Heart Rhythm Charity: ICD Patient Information
Boston Scientific: S-ICD Patient Brochure
Imperial Cardiovascular Health Service: Physical Activity & Exercise Advice for Patients with ICD or CRT-D
British Heart Foundation – www.bhf.org.uk
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If you need further guidance, have any specific questions, or would like a personalised plan, please get in touch.
This health guide was written by Jamie Pickett, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Health Facilitator, & Founder of My Movement Medicine.