Rotator Cuff shoulder surgery

fordson

fordson

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After almost a year of increased right shoulder discomfort, it's been determined that I need rotator cuff surgery. It's scheduled for the end of the month. Doc indicated I'll be in a sling till Christmas or so. Start therapy within a week of surgery.

So, from all you veterans that have had this procedure, what can I expect? Pain management? Therapy and recovery periods? When can I reasonably expect to return to "normal" and use power tools, pull start equipment and get back to the range? Advice and counsel and your experience. Sea stories are welcome.
Thanks.
 
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It all depends on how bad the tear is and things like has the muscle detached etc. Just from my experience if he says sling until Christmas the surgeon must have reason to think your situation is worst case. Sorry
My shoulder was not to bad no detachment and turned out not tears just stretched and thinned. However I did have bone spurs and cartilage problems. I was only in a sling for about a week. Therapy started quickly and was not any fun but you gotta do it.
How fast you can get back depends on so many things that it is hard to predict when you can get back to normal but a hint don't rush it but also don't blow off therapy.
 
Twodog Max's summary seems to agree with my recent experience.
I had the surgery a couple of weeks ago, and it was explained that the longer I waited, the more damage is done, and more extensive the repair procedure, possibly with progressively worsening end results.
Painful post-op, after the nerve block wore off. Double dose of Ibuprofen worked better than opioids.
Bought the recommended shoulder ice-therapy unit for about $180, and kept it on for three days continuously, recharging with frozen water bottles. Then use three times a day for two weeks.
Started physical therapy after a week. Told to expect sling use for six weeks minimum.
Imagine I won't be skeet shooting this year.

Good luck.

Sent from my Moto G (5) Plus using Tapatalk
 
I had a fantastic surgeon

A great Physical Terrorist is just as important as the surgeon. The patient needs to understand they must do the exercises at home as well as attend all Terrorpy sessions in order to make a full recovery.

Will it hurt; yes, but not excruciatingly. "Uncomfortable" becomes the norm. Support the arm with the sling, pillows, or homemade devices. A length of swimming pool noodle wrapped in a hand towel can be stuffed in a tube sock for a firm but light weight support used when sitting or trying to sleep. Most folks spend a few weeks sleeping in a recliner after surgery.

Good luck with this. I had a SLAP repair on my left shoulder 1/3/14 and returned to work several months later. It has held up fine. I have full range of motion and have remained free of pain.
 
Had surgery on my left shoulder about 2-1/2 years ago. The main issues for me were arthritic growth and bone spurs causing pain, limiting range of motion, impinging on the bursa (like a conduit for the nerve), and detached bicep tendon. Surgeon also found a tear in the rotator.

Due to my age at the time and the fact that I am retired, no need to return to work, the doc left the rotator alone, explained to me that this would keep my recovery period measured in a few weeks instead of several months.

Sent me home the same day with a supply of oxycodone and morphine sulfate tablets, as needed for pain management. Took one pill the evening after surgery to help me sleep; the remainder of the opiates were locked in my safe until the next chance to drop them off in the disposal box at the VA clinic. Depending on the extent of your surgery your results will probably be different, but for me serious pain was not an issue after the surgery.

About 10 days in a sling and sleeping in my recliner with pillows to stabilize the shoulder. Then a month of home physical therapy with weekly clinic visits to evaluate and issue orders for my next week of exercises.

Recovered about 90% range of motion, generally good function overall but noticeable loss of arm strength, lifting abilities. Much better than the year prior to surgery with constant pain, very limited range of motion, unable to pick up a gallon of milk, etc.

Good communications with your surgeon, knowing what to expect, commitment to follow-through on your physical therapy. Follow instructions on post-surgery meds, manage your pain/discomfort so you can heal properly.
 
The Doctor told me 3 months recovery. He told me an out right lie. It was a year before the pain stopped. It works like it should now.

Have a blessed day, and a quick uneventful recovery.

Leon
 
Sept 25, 2020: removal of arthritis on had of humerus and around labrum, subacromial decompression, and double anchor rotator cuff repair. Very painful. Needed prescription pain medicine for sleep, naproxen sodium and tylenol during day. Immobilizing sling for weeks, not sure how many. Started pendulum movements and bicep curls (no weights) after 2.5 weeks, formal physical therapy after 5.5 weeks. Initially, had no range of motion without significant pain, gradual improvement, and gradual adding of stretches and strengthening exercises per therapist.

Finding a comfortable position to sleep was a challenge. Tried recliner, Sleep Number bed options, lots of pillows. Still have to be careful about sleeping on shoulders (had surgery on other shoulder 4 years ago, subacromial decompression and disarticulation of AC joint due to severe arthritis).

I made charts to discipline myself to do the stretches and exercises three times a day. I had an "A" day set and a "B" day set allowing muscles to rest and recover for a day. I was very dedicated to doing the exercises, and I think that assisted me to finish with the therapist sooner than originally projected.

I think I have 100% of range of motion and close to that in strength; however I still do the stretches and exercises, although not three sets a day as I have resumed activities and usual exercise program. Still have some pain when doing stretches and exercises, but pain level not a problem.

Doing the PT is not fun, especially early in the process when range of motion is non-existent or minimal. However, the benefit of the PT is HUGE!
 
I had both of mine done in the past 6 years, the most recent being about 3 years ago. Both were complete, 'massive' tears that were separated by around 5 centimeters. The surgeries went OK, although there were some complexities that necessitated the separation and reattachment of the biceps tendons. I don't think I used a sling more than a couple weeks although I was very mindful of my movements. Anyway, the first couple days were pretty uncomfortable, but no where near as bad as I was told they'd be. I slept in an easy chair for several days as it was the only way to get somewhat comfortable. I tried to stay ahead of the pain I was expecting, but it never really came, in fact I think I still have some the original Percocet prescription laying around.

As others have said, PT is of the utmost importance. I gave it my best shot for a few months and it paid off. There are a few spots in my range of motion that still 'twing' on occasion, but I'd say I'm probably 95% or better, and I don't have the constant ache that I had pre-surgery.

Hope this helps, and good luck.
 
It's been about 8 years ago, but my rotator cuff surgery turned out to be unsuccessful. Rather than go through it again, with all the attendant PT afterward, I decided to just live with it. After a year or so, it became almost normal on its own, and I hardly notice it today. I am happy I didn't go through a do-over.
 
First off demand an ice machine or pay for it out of pocket,man there great!! Listen to the PT and due the exercise at home. I also had a machine I would strap into at home that would move arm various degree. I would increase motion/ rotation weekly. At the end this device almost had it up to my ear. Its a slow process, dont rush it, or youll be back under the KNIFE.
 
rotater cuff

surgery can be evoided by excercize !! no nee to get a ball and socket, it works for me -- 2 years !
 
vinn said:
surgery can be evoided by excercize !! no nee to get a ball and socket, it works for me -- 2 years !
Click to expand...


You can't exercise your way out of a "full thickness tear… "
It's not possible. I have had 2 rotator cuff surgeries and reverse shoulder replacement on both shoulders. The later I wish they had done initially. I shoot .44 magnums, 500 magnums without any problems. The right shoulder is stronger than before.
Just listen to the Dr and do the PT. Exercises after surgery are critical. I have full range of motion on my last ( left) shoulder replacement and that was only 5 months ago. April 15th. It will be about a year until that shoulder Is at full strength. Good luck!


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I had the surgery about 10 years ago, after months of pt the doctor had to put me under and work my arm manually after that I wore the sling 2 more days.
After removing the sling everything was back to normal
(almost).
To me the pt was worse than the surgery but it was definitely worth it. I forgot I had another 4 weeks of pt.

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Kenna said:
First off demand an ice machine or pay for it out of pocket,man there great!!
Click to expand...

I've seen it work. My brother had rotator cuff surgery in March. My sister and I were preparing to spend a month taking care of my brother after his surgery. The ice water machine cut the time we had to take care of him in half.
 
Good luck with your upcoming shoulder repair fordson. Follow your surgeons and PT orders to the T.

In 2017 I tore my rotator cuff fighting a house fire and had to have the same surgery and PT. My surgeon came highly recommended but was a brutally blunt "tuff guy" which I really appreciated. He told me that if I didn't put my 100% into my rehab I'd be back and he'd be happy to charge me again for a 2nd fix.

I was thankful he demanded I get the cold water flow rehab machine...think of it as half of a set of football shoulder pads pumping ice cold water all around your shoulder. I could put it on and connect it myself after a few days of help. It sure beat ice packs and bags of frozen peas! A friend had the same surgery done by a different surgeon in the same practice and his surgeon DIDN'T require the cold water flow machine. His recovery was FAR longer.

Everyone I knew who also had this surgery kept telling me that the PT was the worst pain they ever endured. Well ya my PT pushed the limits and stretched me hard but it sure wasn't the WORST I've ever felt. I made it through all the rehab and followup visits. My surgeon was very satisfied and so was I. Luckily I got ALL range of motion and strength back. He had also fixed a frayed bicep muscle from the same incident instead of having me come back for a followup surgery and additional PT. I really appreciated that!

So, go at the PT hard...it is a must. Sure it was painful and I thought some of the stretches were going to RIP my arm off...but it was necessary. As they say: "No pain No gain!"

Good luck!
 
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All — Thanks for all the input and the good advice. I do appreciate the lessons learned from your experience. The shoulder ice therapy is a good idea. And the discipline to stay with the physical therapy. Thanks again.
 
I suggest that you read this older thread below on the same subject. Good advice in there, but for my money the best advice is to get one of the ice machines that sharply reduces swelling and pain. That device and devoted adherence to the prescribed PT will get you the best result.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge...ed-tendon-shoulder.html?603726=#post140584639

A torn rotator cuff repair is fairly routine surgery these days. The technique has greatly improved and so have the results. Even so, count on at least 6 months post-surgery before you stop thinking about your shoulder all the time and one full year before your shoulder is completely healed.
 
I had this surgery in April 2021. I am still recovering. The pt is essential as well as the followup exercises. I take celebrex for the inflammation. The pain comes at 0130 to -0230 each morning. My PT tells me that is because the bone and muscles start to heal at that time. I take 500 mg of Tylenol to dull the pain and go back to bed. Was told that recovery is individual specific from 6 months to 1 year. Am glad I did the surgery tho. Just hoping that full recovery will come soon.
 
Do the rehab and all will be well.
I've had both sides done 10 years apart.
Knowing what was ahead, pulling the trigger on the
second one was tough.
 
Make sure you have a recliner. Impossible to sleep without it.

I had labrum repair (tenodesis, orthoplasty, and 3 staples). Doctor had to drill 3 holes to rebuild everything. It's not like a knee or hip surgery where you are up and walking in a week, these take months to even use your arm again. Listen to the surgeon and PT. Proper recovery is vital for successful surgery. I was in sling for 6 weeks and it took a year to surpass where I was prior. I destroyed my shoulder competing in masters swimming overzealously. Rotator surgeries do have shorter post-op times than labrum repairs, but tend to hurt a little more. Ice is your friend. Get some bands and use them for now on to avoid future issues with other shoulder.

Good luck

Any questions after the procedure this thread might help
 
hemiram is correct. If your shoulder is on your dominate hand side, practice taking care of your personal needs with your other hand. It is awkward at first but necessary. Good luck. As for the discussion of pain above, it is not exaggerated. I found the PT exercises mimicking getting your wallet out of your back pocket the most painful.
 
My wife had her right shoulder rotator cuff large tear repaired on 9/24. Surgeon used plastic screws in the repair procedure. Nerve block worked for a day, the pain pump worked for two days, first narcotics made her ill, now acetaminophen and a very mild narcotic allows her enough pain relief to get some needed rest. Brace stays on for 6 weeks, PT begins in maybe 4 to 6 weeks, already had the left one done previously so she knows the drill. Is adjusting to using left arm for everything. Knowing her, she will be back doing physical chores she should not do. A tough cookie.
 
Don't be surprised if the surgery gets postponed once or twice, or more. I have had two hospitalizations in the last 5 weeks. The first required a 13 hour wait in the ER due to a lack of staff and other issues - most of the staff in the hospital were reassigned to ICU care. The second was planned surgery that had to be out-patient even after it got more complex; I was darned lucky to even keep the date when all "non-emergency" surgery was cancelled. Most of the OR staff are being redeployed in the same manner to the ICU. The additional prep for my surgery was interesting, and new.
 
Rotor cuff surgery

Fordson; I've had three rotor cuff operations. All of them were quite painful.

They all required cortisone shots for pain management, and much orthopedic, and self-therapy.

I believe, your recovery, depends on you, and how hard you push yourself in your exercises, and self therapy.

Before my last operation my surgeon informed me, that I wouldn't regain much use of my arm, but the operation would alleviate, most of the pain. Nevertheless, through extensive exercise, I gained full recovery of my arm. It totally amazed my surgeon.

My methods might not work for everyone, but they certainly did for me. I still have near normal use of both arms.
 
1] Before surgery understand and know how to correctly wear the sling. Make sure your wife also knows.

2] Don't be stupid. Eight hours after surgery you will be in PAIN ! Know what max dosage is and take the pills if the pain is bad. 12 hours of relaxed sleep beats 12 hours of pain and agony. I called my doctor -- my wife was WRONG.

3] Know and understand the therapy information. My surgery (more severe) did not match my post-surgical instructions or therapy instructions. I called and asked what is going on? I started slow careful movement of my arm on a supported counter top on day 3. My wife started a gentle massage on my shoulder as I could tolerate it. Her gentle massage eliminated 75% of post surgery discomfort and therapy pain.

I used a sling for 2 weeks, but had my arm supported for 4 weeks by recliner arm rest and desk chair arm rest. This helped my range of motion.

I had my first post-surgery exam. My recovery at 4 weeks was at 7 to 8 week level. Doctor said "Raise your arms above your head." I did full extension with both arms, right shoulder surgery. He started yelling at me. I was OK, he calmed down. I told him everything I had done for home therapy. At that point we realized that my surgery did not match my post-op instructions, but I had not injured my surgery sight, I was cleared for physical therapy.

Day #1 of physical therapy for me was the same as starting week 3 for most patients. My therapist was amazed at my range of motion and lack of pain. I requested Dave, because he worked with me on my knee replacement. We followed the standard exercise plan, but day 1 was normal, day 2 was day 4 plan, and day 3 was day 6 of plan. After 2 weeks my recovery matched week 4 of therapy play. I finished physical therapy 3 weeks early with 98% range of motion.

Again, I emphasize that my wire's massage therapy contributed 75% to my rapid recovery.
 
5 years ago I had a total tear of right shoulder, workmans comp case. I was operated on end of Jan. and was back to work by mid Sept. Therapy twice a week. Opioids first 5 weeks. Now I'm in therapy for left shoulder rotator cuff, plus they had to cut and re-attach my upper bicep. I think he took a Metabo to clean up inside the cuff. This was back in June. I still don't have good movement, it hurts like all hell, and I believe I'll be in therapy till January. I also exercise some at home. It hurts alot.They took me off opioids about 3 weeks after operation. (Just lousy 5mg Vicodin.) Wakes me up at night.
Do what the therapists say to do and don't miss any appointments.
If you have a tear , all the therapy in the world won't fix it. Do it, and good luck to you.
 
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