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Pacemaker & ICDs: Introduce Yourself & Meet Others
Pacemaker & ICDs | Last Active: 1 hour ago | Replies (269)Comment receiving replies
Do ICD users recommend a particular shoulder pad to be worn on the car seatbelt over the ICD? Also a particular sling to wear at night to prevent someone who has just gotten an implant from putting their left arm over their head? I am a 75 YO man.
Replies to "Do ICD users recommend a particular shoulder pad to be worn on the car seatbelt over..."
@bri793 I never needed a shoulder pad for my seatbelt, it naturally lays between the device and my neck. Also, it was late November and outer clothing provided good padding.
I hope someone can tell us about your left arm over the head issue. I slept in a recliner for the first while; I now sleep on my left side with no problems. I used a sling when I went out for my daily walks to prevent unnecessary movement during the healing time.
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@bri793
This subject came up Mayo Community Connect (MCC) several months ago. Many posters posted things they did and products they purchased.
What I did was to lower the seat belt to under my arm pit. This moved the seat belt to below the ICD/Pacemaker I have. It works for me, but emphasize "Me,"
One poster mentioned the seat belts were designed to be worn not to be under the arm pit. That is very true. But at least for me, and only me, it moved the seat belt below my device.
I did try the pads but still caused discomfort and rubbing on the site. Most notably during the time period after surgery and area very sore and sensitive. My electrophysiologist told me to avoid any pressure on the site. What I notice is when you move with seat belt on it can really add some pressure of the belt over the surgery site and location of your device.