Update on shoulder surgery

[Tiggy70]

A few weeks ago when I posted that I was having a difficult time with my PMR journey many of you replied with positive thoughts and support.  That helped me so much.  I mentioned at the time that I was awaiting shoulder surgery and some of you asked me to let you know how I got on.  I had the surgery 3 days ago and so far so good.  I was admitted as a day patient at 7.15 am and was home by 6.30 pm.  I had arthroscopic surgery but on opening up my shoulder the surgeon discovered that my injury was far worse than was first thought.  As well as the full thickness tear in the supraspinatus tendon and osteophytes I also had a torn bicep tendon. This has now been reattached.   I had a reasonable first night as I had no feeling due to the nerve block but the second night was difficult when the nerve block wore off.  I was well medicated but the pain was excruciating.  Currently I have some aching, stiffness and a lot of soreness and sleeping is difficult.  I know I have a long journey ahead but I’m hoping for a good outcome.  So far I haven’t had to increase my pred so that’s a good thing.  Tiggy70 💪 x

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Ouch, having had a shoulder replacement know how awkward it can be afterwards, so all the very best, and plenty of TLC required.

Don’t be reticent about increasing Pred and try to tough it out…..it will only be a temporary measure and if you need it you need it, but if you don’t then fair enough.

Wishing you a speedy recovery…🌸

[PMRpro Ambassador]

All the best. Hope the pain improved.

This day surgery and send them home is appalling in terms of pain management which is so crucial for ALL surgery,

And I agree with DL on the pred front - your body may need Sick Day Rules to cope with the stress of surgery and post-op pain.

[anutycrixp]

I have had both shoulders replaced so I understand how it is.what painkillers are you taking?Need adequate pain relief to be able to do required physio etc!

[Tiggy70 in reply to anutycrixp]

hi thanks. I’m basically on Paracetamol (2x500mg) every 4 hours (up to a max. of 8 pills in 24 hours and a drug called Celecoxib (one 100 mg tablet every 12 hours). The Celecoxib is used for RA and Osteoarthritis and after surgery as a pain killer. I’m allergic to opioids. I’m feeling very spaced out and sleepy but still have a lot of pain. I’m managing to do my physio three times a day as the movements have to be very small. I’m icing every three hours for 15 minutes.

[powerwalk]

oh that sounds so painful. Wishing you a speedy recovery and hope you get your pain under control. Best wishes.

[Tiggy70 in reply to powerwalk]

Thank you. I just have to tough it out !!🌸🌸

[anutycrixp]

Worth reporting to your surgeon or g.p that you have inadequate pain relief during this immediate post-op period? best wishes.