rotator cuff surgery help

[annieoakley]

I go in for surgery  plzzz  someone help with sugestions to make this easier when i return home.
Hello,
I fell a year ago and broke my hand, had surgery on that..since I fell i have had shoulder pain had a MRI It showed 3 tears in my left rotator cuff and two cyst,,I'am  haveing rotator cuff surgery on jan 22nd by a orthopedic joint specialist and starting therapy on the 25th of jan. My question is i have alot of pain in scapular area also,hopeing this has to do with the shoulder,  would like to know if thoes that have had this surgery what to exspect and I also live by myself, what are some good ideas to make this easier for me and how long before I wil regain use of my arm as this is gonna be just me recovering by myself. Thank you in advance look forward to any responces.
Annie

[lafnjim]

you are singing my song! Holy Cow! I am one moth post shoulder surgery. I simply fell, broke fall with right  arm.  I thought Ouch that hurt. But I could not raise arm over
shoulder. MRI said torn rotator. Well, my 1.5 hour surgery was 4 hours. 9 anchors.
2 hours in recovery trying to get pain handled. Blood pressure through the roof.
I scratched all night, was allergic to morhine!
Went home the next afternoon. And tried to do this myself. No Luck.

I got a 24 hr nurse next night. He plied me with Percocet every four hours.
He left I went to ER with more BP issues of pain.
Gave me delaudid and BP medicine (i dont have High BP)

I went to Fentanyl Patch after ER for 6 days. loved it but was afraid of addiction.

Tried no pain killers, it was awful. Now, I get No Sleep. Until I take 3 Vico Profins maybe four. But I hallucinate. I am not a drug addict that is for sure!

So, every day, 5 times a day I do the exercises. And by day, I run the business form home. (I have not left home in a month!, except to PT 2 times already!)

The pain is awful. I have an ice bag on right now. All night is the ice machine.
I don't want to sleep, because of nightmares, hallucinations and having to go to the bathroom every hour on the hour.

So, where are we in this TRIP? The riders ahead of me. WHEN DOES THE PAIN STOP!!!!!!??????

I have 5 pain killer types, antiinflammatorys, muscle relaxer, pain cream RX which is pretty good. I have used it twice. I am scared to take anything.
VicoProfin is it.

Im listening! I hear, my surgery was OVER THE TOP! And i am out six months.
if it was an athlete it is a career ender. I am 53. And in great shape, but now a mess.

HELP

[Wlbaglady]

I laughed at first, then cried re your duct tape comment.  I'm scheduled at the first of the year and my "girls" are 40 E's.  I actually tried to tape them this morn because on a normal day the get in the way of just wiping myself.  I often get tingles if I'm on my side too long.  I fear this is going to be a real problem.  Then I ran across your note and I seriously wonder if its something I should mention to my doctor.

[gallopinggranny]

I am having open rotator cuff surgery on Dec 5, 2012. I was glad to finally find some true conversation about the pain involved. I too have spinal issues.  I have had 2 cervical fusions and currently have herniated discs and am on Methadone for pain management.  My biggest worry now is what are they going to do for the pain from the shoulder surgery.  I am scared to death of more pain.  And the therapy...OMG, more pain infllicted? Anyway, I appreciate the honesty between you and annieoakley.  Wish me luck.

[gallopinggranny]

I am having open rotator cuff surgery on Dec 5, 2012. I was glad to finally find some true conversation about the pain involved. I too have spinal issues.  I have had 2 cervical fusions and currently have herniated discs and am on Methadone for pain management.  My biggest worry now is what are they going to do for the pain from the shoulder surgery.  I am scared to death of more pain.  And the therapy...OMG, more pain infllicted? Anyway, I appreciate the honesty between you and annieoakley.  Wish me luck.

[gallopinggranny]

I am having open rotator cuff surgery on Dec 5, 2012. I was glad to finally find some true conversation about the pain involved. I too have spinal issues.  I have had 2 cervical fusions and currently have herniated discs and am on Methadone for pain management.  My biggest worry now is what are they going to do for the pain from the shoulder surgery.  I am scared to death of more pain.  And the therapy...OMG, more pain infllicted? Anyway, I appreciate the honesty between you and annieoakley.  Wish me luck.

[geminigirl1963]

Hi Annie!

I'm glad that therapy wasn't too bad for you, but very sorry that it hit you later on.  Unfortunately, that type of thing happens to me all the time with just general every day activities.  I, too, like to take long, very warm showers.  I can't handle them if they're too hot - it seems like they may help at first, but then I guess it's when my body starts to cool down, I've found that the pain level actually increases if the shower has been too hot.

Don't worry about crying from the pain - it's quite normal and I do it a LOT!  I also find myself pacing the floors, but again, because of my arthritis, I end up suffering even more from doing THAT!  it's a never ending battle with me I guess. **SIGH**

My shoulder replacement mostly was because of severe arthritis in the joint, but I also had a pretty good size tear in the rotator cuff, along with some tendon and ligament damage.  About 4-5 months before I really started having trouble with my shoulder, I had slipped on teh floor coming out of the bathroom at my parent's house.  I instinctively reached out to grab something to keep myself from falling and what I grabbed was the edge of my mother's desk.  I was able to keep from falling, but in the process, totally stretched my shoulder way too much and that's where the tear of the rotator cuff and other injuries (other than the arthritis) came from.  I tried all sorts of non-surgical intervention before finally giving in to have the surgery done - medication, physical therapy, icing, heat, cortisone shots, etc.  My pain was only increasing and my ability to move my arm was decreasing.  When the surgeon talked to me after the surgery was done, he told me my shoulder was one of the worst that he has seen - and he's a shoulder specialist!!  I did pretty well right after the surgery (done in Sept 08), but have been having more and more problems with it (pain and loss of range of motion) the past several months.  I go back to the surgeon who did it next month and I'm hoping he doesn't tell me I need to have something redone to it already.  My scar from the surgery is probably 12 inches in length and I had 37 staples that were absolutey HORRIFIC to have removed.

I know what you mean about it feeling good when you take your sling off - just having your arm in the same position all the time can be very uncomfortable - I kept getting pains in my elbow because I wasn't moving it.  That might be part of what's causing you the "chilly bumps" feeling - could also be nerves regenerating.  I would mention it to your surgeon, but I don't think it's too much to worry about.

The bra is going to be a problem/hassle.  I'm very well endowed in that area, so definitely needed to wear something when I went out of my apartment, but it was so uncomfortable for me, I couldn't wait to get back home so I could take it off again.  I found for quite a long time I wasn't able to wear the strap on the affected side - I would wear the opposite side as normal, but just "pull up" the surgical side to "cover up".  My immobilizer actually helped in this regard - once I "pulled up" and adjusted, it gave me enough support even without the strap so I didn't feel like I was falling out all over the place.  Sometimes I wish I could have just used some duct tape to hold the ladies up! LOL

What did your doctor say about the valium with the pain medication?  If they won't let you take that, you may want to ask them another muscle relaxer - I believe it was Robaxin that I had (not positive though) - it worked pretty well for me.  I've also taken Soma in the past, but I think the Robaxin worked better than the Soma does for me.  For me, flexeril and skelaxin do nothing.

Keep me posted on how you're doing and if I can answer any more questions for you.  Even when the pain is horrible, just try to remember that each day will get a little bit better.

Gentle hugs,
Robyn

[annieoakley]

WOW GEM U HAVE BEEN SUCH A GREAT HELP THANK U SO MUCH...SO SORRY TO HEAR U HAVE SUCH PAINFULL DISEASES, I HAVE A DAUGHTER IN LAW WHO HAS LUPUS AND SUFFERS TERRIBLY. THERAPY WAS NOT TOO BAD IN FACT FELT GREAT TO REALISE MY ARM FROM THE SLING,,LMAO IT WAS AFTER THERAPY LIKE 1 HOUR LATER THE SEVERE PAIN SET IN, I ICED, I CRIED, CUSSED MY DR OUT IN MY MIND..SLEPT 2 HOURS NOW IM UP TO 11 HOURS OF SLEEP SINCE FRIDAY..ITS TUES AM AND PAIN IS FINALLY SOMEWHAT CONTROLLED. I TOOK SLING OFF, TOOK SHOWER DID THE ARM MOVEMENT THERAPY IN SHOWER, STAYED IN SHOWER FOREVER I HAVE THE HOT WATER SYSTEM THAT NEVER RUNS COLD, TOOK TWO OXYCODONE AFTER AND ICED AND NOW PAIN LEVEL IS BETTER AGAIN. I ALSO LIKE U HAVE STARTED HAVEN SPASMS IN NECK AND SHOULDER, I HAVE 10 MG VALIUMS..I PUT CALL INTO DRS OFFICE TO SEE IF I CAN TAKE THEM WITH THE OXYCODONE,ALSO THIS WAS SUPPOSE TO BE ARTHOSCOPIC, IT LOOKS LIKE HE STARTED THAT WAY HAVE 4 HOLES WITH SITCHES BUT ALSO HAVE A STUTURE WITH  6 STITCHES I DID SIGN FOR OPEN PROCEDURE IF NECESSARY. PLEASE REFRESH ME WHY DID U HAVE SHOULDER REPLACEMENT AGAIN? ONE THING THATS DRIVEN ME BUGGY I KEEP HAVEN LIKE CHILLY BUMPS JUST IN ONE ARM FROM THE SHOULDER DOWN.. WEIRD.
GONNA TRY AND DO  DA BRA THING AND PUT THE GIRLS UP TOMORROW...LOL,,,I'AM A 40D AND HANGEN IS NOT PRETTY! GONNA BE ALOT TO TRY AND GET EM  IN..LOL MAYBE I INVENT SOMETHING TO PUT UNDER BREAST  LIKE STICK ON TO HOLD EM  UP. TAKE CARE, THANKS AGAIN!
HUGS,
ANNIE

[geminigirl1963]

I was hesitant to tell you about the pain I endured after my block wore off - I didn't want to scare you, but maybe I should have mentioned it in order to prepare you a little.  I, too was awake for about 36 hours after surgery simply because of the pain.  I was in the hospital for 48 hours of that time. The nurses at the hospital I had it done at were wonderful in trying EVERYTHING to reduce my pain, even calling my doctor for his suggestions without me requesting they do that. I was on a PCA with fentanyl for 24 hours after surgery, which didn't even touch the pain once the block wore off (they told me I'd be numb for about 12 hours, but mine lasted only about 5-6 hours).  the feeling coming back into my fingers was gradual - the pins and needles thing, but the feeling/pain coming back to my shoulder was instantaneous and shattering.  The doctor considered putting a long-term block back into my shoulder, but that scared me because of not being able to feel/use my arm at all and also I found with teh block, it made me feel like I was having trouble getting a breath (I have asthma so this is especially scary to me).  I mentioned this to the anesthesiologist that put the block in before surgery (they gave it to me about 1/2 hour before they wheeled me in) and he said that was normal, but it certainly didn't feel normal to me and made me very nervous.  I was also worried that whenever they did stop the block that I'd be back to square one with trying to get things under control, so we opted for the oral medication route.  It took a while to find the right combination, but we finally achieved something where I was somewhat comfortable - certainly no where near pain free, but not writhing around on the bed hollering in pain either (I was when the block wore off)  For about 10 days after surgery I was on a long-acting morphine every 12 hours and dilaudid 8 mg every 4 hours, plus Robaxin (muscle relaxer), so I was on some heavy duty meds.  After the 10 days, we were able to remove the long acting morphine and change the dilaudid to two vicodin 10/325 every four hours if needed (I needed it!) (I'm allergic to percocet) - but still had to stay on the Robaxin as I was getting a LOT of muscle spasms, adding to the pain level.  I also have other pain issues - fibromyalgia, lupus and severe arthritis in all joints, so my pain tolerance is pretty low and I'm sure that added to me needing more medication than maybe somebody else would have.

Therapy is bound to be very painful to begin with - be sure and medicate before each session - about 45 minutes to an hour before so the meds have a chance to start working - and if they allow you, ice your shoulder after the sessions to help reduce swelling and pain.  It's important to do your therapy, even if it's painful, so as to work through and avoid stiffness which will only make the pain worse.

I know what you're saying about staying in the same clothes - the nurses and therapists helped me to change into my own fresh nightgown the day I was being discharged (glad but not glad to get rid of the "lovely" hospital gown), I rode home in my nightgown and robe slung over my shoulders and stayed in my nightgown for three more days until I was permitted to remove the immbolizer long enough to take a shower (that in itself was quite a feat and I'm sure comical if you were to watch it!!)  I had been dealing with the shoulder pain and loss of movement for several months before my surgery, so I had already adjusted the way I did things to accomodate for the lack of movement and pain, but had to adjust things even more after surgery.  The therapists at the hospital showed me a good way to be able to wash the underarm area of the surgical shoulder -- with the sling/immobilizer off, lean over at the waist (if you can with your back) and just kinda let the affected shoulder gently fall forward.  this way you're not actually using the shoulder itself to move the arm, but it will open up the space between your body and your underarm so you can get a washcloth in there to wash.  I also used this "technique" to get my bra straps and shirt sleeves on.  Also, when you are dressing, make sure you put the affected arm into your shirt sleeve FIRST and when undressing, take it off the affected arm LAST.  This again helps you to be able to avoid overusing the shoulder.

If I can answer any more questions, please let me know.  I hope you get some pain relief soon and also hope therapy isn't too unbearable.

[annieoakley]

Well surgery is over, had 3 tears in rotator, also aslap repair and 2 cyst removed. OMG..6 hours after surgery nerve block came out,,was not prepared for the pain..it has been horrible..was awake for 36 hours after surgery,finally have managed to get 6 hours of sleep in since friday 22nd. Its monday, and my pain is somewhat undercontrol,,taken oxycodone 2. 5 mg/325 every 4 hours, at the 3 hour mark really need the meds but hold out now till the 4 hours was taken evry 3 hours and that would only last 2 hours, so I guess there is improvement..also started taken ibprofin 800mg and i believe thats what has brought the improvement...I start therapy in 3 hours how in the world imma ever gonna do this after reading your post and the dr's response about therapy causen u the severe pain..this is way hard being alone and going through this...i'am in the same top since friday been able to wash  my important parts and thats about it..lol..have not removed the sling ..untill i go to therapy and they can show me how to put back on,, no bra girls are hanging..lol hope therapy understands..i look a messs...will get back to u all after therapy....have had low back fusion 2 level cervical fusion nothing has been this painfull.
hugssss
Annie

[geminigirl1963]

My shoulder surgery was not exactly the same as yours so not sure everything I'll say will relate to your surgery or recovery.  I had shoulder replacement surgery and rotator cuff repair in September 08.  I also had the nerve block and general anesthesia for it.  you will be numb for about the 12 hours after surgery with the nerve block.  That, for me, was pretty freaky - being able to see my arm, but being totally unable to feel or move it.  At one point shortly after surgery, my affected arm had come partially out of the immobilizer they had put me in after surgery and the nurse was trying to get me to move my arm slightly to get it back in the right position.  With being unable to feel or move my affected arm, I had to grasp my fingers with the opposite hand and move it that way.  So be prepared for that strangeness.

Sleeping definitely was a problem - if you try to sleep in bed, be sure to use at least one pillow behind your operated on shoulder to help support it and keep it from "falling backward" when you're laying down.

I was in my immobilizer for six weeks post of - I was permitted to remove it for therapy, showers and dressing ONLY after three weeks.  Getting dressed, using the rest room, showering, etc. were all a chore and I definitely had to adjust how I would have normally done things to allow for the shoulder.  I found that elastic waist pants were the easiest for me to deal with - no zippers or buttons to mess with.  Be aware also that you're definitely going to need help getting into your bra!!  That was the absolute worst for me!  since I also live alone, I would normally "go without" when I was at home and would only wear one if I was going out for therapy, doctor's appointments, etc.  The easiest way I found was to hook it in the front of me, then slide it around so the hook was in the back and then put my arms in.

I was not permitted to drive for the entire six weeks that I was in my immobilizer - don't know what your restrictions on that will be.  Whenever you are allowed to drive again, start off slowly around locally before you try to drive on the highways or a longer trip - to make sure that you are able to maneuver the steering wheel and make quick movements if necessary.

Best of luck - by now your surgery is over and I hope all went well.  Keep us posted!

[annieoakley]

Hi Ella,
Thanks for the responce, wow u are young to have had this surgery, I don't have a recliner but I'am a side sleeper fortunately not on the surgery side. I'am prepareing food today for easy pop in micro. Hope I can do this alone, so therapy is the painfull part? I start monday jan 25th, when were u able to drive? as it is right now I have a driver service to take me to therapy which is costly..If I am unable to sleep in a bed I will just sleep sitting up, I have a comfortable rocker. Lol  just hopeing I can get my pants down to use the rest room. i'am haven general anathesia and a block in my arm which they say should last about 12 hours after the surgery..I believe the big problem i'am gonna have to getting up from sitting as i have a bad back and use my arms to brace myself to stand. Surgerys tomorrow morning, will get back with u to update you,, I feel  now i have support  here.
Thank  you so much!!!!

[Totie]

I am some what stressing over how I will do things once I have my surgery next week.

I am having Anthroscopy SAD & subpecteral biceps tenodesis (really don't know what those mean), but hoping it stops my pain...

I work in an office, my only question is will I be able to drive. I know I can drive with one arm, I have been doing it since the pain in my left shoulder, but will the doctor tell me "no driving".

[ellagrace]

Hi Annie.

I had shoulder surgery about 8 weeks ago. The surgery is ok but the rehab is the main thing to be prepared for.

If you have a recliner chair, use this to sleep in for the first few weeks because it will be much more comfortable. You will also want to make things around the house easier for you to reach and use as you will only be using one arm for a while.

You are welcome to email me if you need to chat or want some more tips. My email is ***@****.

Best wishes
Eloise