Staying Active With an LVAD
June 9, 2025
Safe, simple ways to move your body and boost your mood post-implant.
June 9, 2025
Safe, simple ways to move your body and boost your mood post-implant.
Physical activity plays a big role in recovery, confidence, and overall quality of life after LVAD implantation. Movement can help improve circulation, maintain muscle strength, reduce stress, and boost your mood. It does not need to be intense or complicated to be effective. This article provides safe and simple ideas for staying active after getting an LVAD, based on real experiences from patients and caregivers.
This is not medical advice. Always talk to your LVAD team before starting or changing any exercise routine. Every patient is different, and your care team can help you understand your unique limits and possibilities.
After LVAD surgery, it is common to feel hesitant about getting back on your feet. But once your team gives the green light, physical activity can support your recovery in a powerful way. It strengthens your body, helps fight fatigue, improves balance, and can even reduce the risk of complications like blood clots. It also helps fight off feelings of depression, isolation, and frustration that many patients face post-implant.
The key is to move with purpose but not push past your limits.
1. Listen to your body
Pushing too hard can lead to setbacks. Start slow and increase intensity only as tolerated. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, out of breath, or experience pain, stop right away.
2. Protect your driveline
Make sure your driveline and equipment are secure before doing any type of movement. Avoid motions that tug, twist, or place pressure near the exit site. Wear your gear in a comfortable, stable position.
3. Stay hydrated and well-fueled
Even low-intensity activity requires energy. Drink water and eat a small snack beforehand if needed. Keep your body fueled for what you are asking it to do.
4. Choose balance over intensity
Consistency matters more than intensity. A few minutes each day adds up. The goal is progress, not perfection.
Here are some patient-tested activities that can be safe and effective for many people with an LVAD. Again, confirm with your team before beginning anything new.
1. Walking
Walking is one of the best and easiest ways to stay active. It can be done indoors, outdoors, or even at the mall when the weather is bad. Start with short, flat distances and gradually work up. Consider using a treadmill at home if available.
2. Light resistance exercises
Simple bodyweight movements like wall push-ups, seated leg lifts, and light dumbbell curls can help build strength. Focus on form and go slow. Avoid anything that strains your core or involves heavy lifting unless cleared by your team.
3. Seated exercises
Chair-based workouts are great for those with limited mobility or balance. March in place while sitting, extend your legs, or use light resistance bands. These movements still engage muscles and promote circulation.
4. Stretching and flexibility
Gentle stretching keeps your muscles loose and improves range of motion. Focus on your arms, shoulders, neck, and legs. Stretch after warm-ups or at the end of a walk.
5. Breathing and mindfulness routines
Controlled breathing, gentle yoga, and mindfulness routines can reduce stress while improving posture and core stability. Avoid yoga poses that place pressure on your abdomen or involve lying flat.
Avoid contact sports or anything that risks a fall or hit to your equipment.
Skip abdominal crunches or exercises that strain your core without clearance.
Stay out of hot environments during workouts to prevent overheating.
Watch for warning signs like fatigue, shortness of breath, or changes in your LVAD controller alarms.
Always carry your equipment in a way that protects the controller and batteries while allowing freedom of movement. Many people use chest harnesses or secure belts designed for exercise.
Exercise is not just for the body. It can help reduce anxiety, increase confidence, and improve your mood. Feeling stronger physically can boost your emotional resilience. If you feel isolated or unmotivated, movement can be the first step back toward feeling like yourself again.
Staying active with an LVAD is not about training for a marathon. It is about reclaiming your day-to-day life. Movement helps patients reconnect with their bodies, improve strength, and regain independence. Start small, stay safe, and keep showing up. Progress is built one step at a time.
LVADStrong does not provide medical advice. Always consult with your LVAD team before starting or changing any activity. These tips are shared from the collective experience of patients and caregivers to help support your journey forward.