Re: Rotator Cuff surgery, so far, so good

[BRatliff]

Week one update

Hey everyone, thanks for the replies and well wishes. Today marks one week since my surgery. I am doing quite well so far.

The pain is much less than I expected, more of an annoyance than anything. Took a few pain pills the first few days, none since Saturday.

Sleeping is a bit difficult for more than a few hours. Mainly due to the fact that one can only sleep in a limited number of not very comfortable positions.

The worst thing for me is having my arm immobilized in the sling. It makes even simple routine tasks pretty difficult. Ever try shaving or opening a bottle of pop with one hand? It's not as easy as you would think.

I go back to the Dr. on Friday for a post-op exam. They will remove the bandages then. Hopefully I won't have to wear the sling 24-7.

Best regards, Bob.

 

[Jebus35745]

Glad so far everything is on track. When you feel you can shoot or just want to get away, remember the retired guy shoot at NOSC where the S&W Bunch meets. How long will you be out of work? Sure you don't miss it, Larry

 

[halvenut]

Wishing you a speedy and successfull recovery!

 

[Grip_Maker's_Wife]

Bob, I am glad your surgery went well. Know that surgery takes time to heal so best of luck with your PT and strength building and wishing you a full recovery.

 

[soFlaNative]

Good Luck on the recovery.
Bet you know who your real friends are after a visit to the can!

 

[BRatliff]

Re: Post-op update

Went back to see my Dr. this morning for my post-op evaluation. He said everything went great! While I had a nearly complete tear, he was able to reattach the tendon. He seems very confidant that I will make a complete recovery.

They removed the stiches this morning. Eight very small incisions, about twenty stitches total.

I start physical therapy July 12th. No openings next week due to the 4th. of July holiday.

I will update this thread as time passes. Many thanks for all of y'all's support.

Bob

 

[gnystrom]

Been down your road. Had both shoulders done the same year six months apart. As others have said DO YOUR EXERCISES. I am still doing them four years later. It took about one year to get back to feeling like "the old days" but now at 72 I shoot rifles, large caliber handguns, and shoot a compound bow (56#) three days a week. Overall a really great outcome for me. I hope the same for you.

Did I say DO YOUR EXERCISES?

 

[vipermd]

Today marks one week since my surgery.
Sleeping is a bit difficult for more than a few hours. Mainly due to the fact that one can only sleep in a limited number of not very comfortable positions.
Best regards, Bob.

Bob: Glad you are feeling better. When sleeping you should try to put pillows or sandbags, in front and behind you to keep you from moving too much in your sleep. Even though it is healing, we tend to move around while sleeping and it can cause significant pain. Try it. Be Safe,

 

[soFlaNative]

Lost some velocity on the fastball but I'll bet you still have your curve...

 

[nachogrande]

AS A FORMER ORTHO RN

I wish I had practiced what I preached. Although hips/knees/spinal lamies were my bread & butter, Rotator cuffs are incredibly common. Since it happened to me last November I wish I had done the rehab. WE truly are the worst patients, I'm living proof, if you call this living. That rehab advice is spot on. I have a whole new respect for how fragile a shoulder joint CAN BE, how painful, how so many moves require your shoulder ESPECIALLY when it's on your strong side.