Mitral valve repair April 19,  2017  4:24am EST

Hi Frankie! Welcome to our support system. I didn't have what you did but, I did have a HA and had 2 stents placed. Cardio Rehab is the best thing for recovery. Don't deny your body the chance to rebuild in the right atmosphere. Wishing the best for you Bev

Frankie, I had a bovine mitral valve replacement one year ago. The pain from the incisions, especially on the side of my breast were very painful. Give your body the time it needs to recover. I found that I could do a little more each day. I agree that it felt like the recovery was slower than I anticipated. Stairs were really difficult for me. I did not go through cardio rehab but I know that many people find it helpful. A good support system is important. I made the mistake of putting on weight. Family cooked and shopped for me and I was doing less physically than usual. Now that I feel fine, I am walking 3-5 miles a day to try to lose the extra pounds. It seems harder to lose than ever but a positive attitude is important too.

Thank you ladies, I guess I am not patient enough as I was very active and now feel lost not being able to do the the things I am used to. I also wasn't prepared for this. The constant pain is just driving me insane, and I don't like to take medications. I approximate your advice thank you

I am so sorry that this happened to you! What type of surgery did you have?

Did this a year ago and rehab was great. I'm going in for my second surgery soon and plan to do rehab again.

HI, I've had 3 surgeries, The last one was 3 years ago, replaced my aortic valve with a pig valve. Fixed several holes in my mitral valve, 2 by-passes and a maze procedure. Having your sternum opened is like having multiple broken ribs and the pain takes time. quick for some longer for others. Do not push yourself if it hurts. Talk with your care giver if the pain continues. I did cardiac rehab this last time.