Actually the sternum is surprisingly unpainful (like, not at all). I actually wouldn't mind if it did remind me not to put any strain on it, even if I am being extremely careful, as directed (and aware how central it is to most upper body movements). I hope the fact that I've not had any sharp pains means I'm doing OK with my limited movements.
Didn't know that about seatbelts, so on the very few journeys, it's been a cushion under the seatbelt to spread the pressure. Not that I can legally drive until the six weeks are up.
I'm not allowed to ride a bike till the end of the 12 weeks, but am wondering whether they'd be happy with my riding a recumbent trike instead: the bike ban is (I think) simply to prevent a fall and cracking the sternum open. I have to say, I'm surprised how tidy the scar is: only a couple of stitches where the drain was, the skin was superglued otherwise, and the wiring is more or less invisible.
