thorocotomy with one hand

[mistyamber]

i wuz born with no right hand so i guess u could say i am very left handed. 2 years ago i had to have a thorocotomy which occured on my left side. i am still having severe pain in my back, side, and i have a hard time breathing, mainley in the heat or sometimes just from the restroom and back. it is very hard to deal with this  pain because i only have my left hand to use. i have children and am very independant but i find myself very limited in normal activities yet i am not able at times to rest my left hand and side because it is the only one  i have. this is becoming very stressfull. i have always overcame any obstacle when it came to me having one hand, i really need help from someone to overcome this time. im not sure if theres something in the book on this one,but, any advice is greatley appreciated.

[BlueEyes1022]

I am a post thoracotomy X2 patient. I also have a great bit of pain but I put a small curved pillow (for between knees) under my arm on the bad side & it helps keep the arm up and level due to rib removal in the 2nd surgery. I would love to help you with some of the tricks I have learned and would be more than happy to talk to you if you want to call me or personal note to me I will give you my number or you can give me yours. Everyone here is very supportive adn loving. You can read my post and see that mine is similar only twice in as far as surgery. You sound like a strong person and will get through this!
Blueeyes1022

[Tuckamore]

Hello Misty,

I am so sorry to hear about the pain you are experiencing post-thoroctomy. I am glad that you found us at MedHelp and welcome you to the Pain Management Forum. You sound like a very brave woman that has faced many challenges and obstacles successfully.

Can you share with us why your had the thoroctomy? According to what I have read you should have regained your strength and the shortness of air should be easing. What reasons does your physician give for the way you are feeling?

I don't know what state you live in so I am unsure which type of physician follows and treats chronic pain. In my state it is the PCP. Have you seen or are you seeing a PMP? If not I suggest that you consider it. There are also PM Therapist that may be able to help you sort out the issues that you are now facing. Many have found a good therapist to be helpful. Do you have a good PCP that can advise you or refer you to a PMP or order PT/rehab and some thing to control your pain?

Have you been through a good rehab program to help strengthen you? They can also offer suggestions and training on dealing with your new limitations. You have been through a lot and it may be time to ask for some guidance.  It is not a sign of weakness to need help.

We are here to support you. I hope you  will consider becoming an active memeber of our community. I have found great support and information here. Our members are compassionate and caring. Please let us know how you are doing. I wil look forward to your updates.

Take Care,
Tuck