Hand swelling, pain in clavicle

[edmo3700]

I am currently about 8 months into my rehabilitation from a rotator cuff repair (on June 10, 2009, I had a small tear in my supraspinatus repaired), and I am still experiencing swelling in my surgery-side hand, usually more noticeable after using my shoulder.  It started out with numbness in my thumb and forefinger, which have gradually subsided.  At about 3 months, I had a nerve conduction study (and an MRI on my hand at 7 months), both of which have come back "normal."  At this point, my doctor has told me that I may just have the swelling for the rest of my life, and a second opinion from the same institution confirmed that.  The only other pain I have is an intense/sharp pain in my clavicle when I go "down" during a push-up.  The swelling is something I am trying to accept, but it is difficult, because I came into the surgery with a healthy hand, and healthy blood flow.  Any suggestions (exercises, etc.) or ideas on how I may be able to reduce the swelling would be greatly appreciated.  I am not looking for sympathy, but similar stories are welcome... it helps to not feel so isolated with this issue.

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Although I am not aware of how many cases of RSD you have seen, there are extremes to every medical problem. You may have a mild form of RSD. You have certainly ruled out everytrhing else.  Find an expert on RSD and make an appt.

[edmo3700]

There was numbness for about 3 months, but to answer your question, no, no vascular studies have been done.  The swelling is slight compared to most cases of RSD I have seen... any advice?

[Michael L Gross, MD]

you mentioned nerve conduction studies, so I assume there have been some nerve symptoms as well, such as numbness.  No mention of vascular studies, but have these been done.  Have you rulled out complex regional pain syndrome, aka RSD?