Sternal healing time

I had a quadruple cardiac bypass procedure performed on 8/8/2011. I had no symptoms whatsoever prior to my procedure; however, a treadmill EKG revealed 1-3 mm depressions of the ST segment during exercise at approximately 8 minutes. I felt totally fine during the treadmill test, even though the EKG indicated otherwise. A  resultant angiogram revealed left main disease, which then resulted in my quadruple bypass procedure. After 4 weeks, I am already walking  2 miles in the AM and 2 miles in the PM without any difficulties. I played tournament competitive men's softball in Florida monthly prior to my procedure and I look forward to playing softball once again. When I played,  I was typically the best player on my team and I could still run fast, throw hard and hit home runs. My question is as follows: How long does it take for the sternum to heal post surgery and when could I begin playing softball once again without any fear of opening my incision or adversely affecting my sternum. I would also hit 100-200 softballs weekly prior to my surgery. even though I am 52-years-old, I am still young at heart. No pun intended.

[ed34]

Everyone recovers at a different rate, but I wouldn't be expecting to swing for around 9 months. A friend of mine who loves golf has been told at 6 months he can putt, but no swings yet. My recovery took 12 months at which time ALL discomfort was totally gone.

[phil123106]

Ed, thanks for your insight and your information regarding your friend. Maybe it is hopeful thinking on my part that I will be able to play in 5 months. Once agin,  I was told that I could play softball in 5 months; but it is possible that they may be patronizing me somewhat. I will have to wait as long as necessary and take the advice of my surgeon, cardiologist and physical therapist once I begin cardiac rehabilitation. I feel so good after only 5 weeks that I believe it may be possible to play softball in 5 months; however, only time will tell. For example, I walked 5 miles without stopping and without any difficulties just a few days ago, which was a little over 4 weeks since my quadruple bypass. You indicated your recovery took 12 months. Do you still worry about your sternum after 12 months and how do you know that you recovered after 12 months? Thanks again.