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rotar cuff surgery

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2 weeks ago today, I had a surgery for rotar cuff tear, spur, shavings of the base of collar bone and repair in my bicep tendons/muscles. All went very well as my surgeon said in my post op visit. I have to be in a sling for 6 weeks. I was told to go for pt and to try to take off the sling at night and at times at home but deffinetly to have it on whenever needing for protection and especially when I go out. also been instructed not to use the arm. how long is it going to be for me to startusing my arm WITHOUT any pain to do at least normal chores as simple as combing my hair!? this is very frustrating.. Also when will I be able to drive? thanks so much for any help you can give me

3 comments

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    9 10

    I had my shoulder fixed on Dec 11. I took my sling off after a few days for short periods, but always kept my upper arm to my side. After about a week, I started doing the arm rotations (leaning forward, with my arm hanging free & rotate it). I started PT about 4 weeks after surgery & about that time I started to raise my arm but slowly. I work in construction & after 6 weeks of PT, I was able to go back to work, but slowly @ first. I have about 95% of the strenght & 100% range of motion. I probably do my other shoulder soon. Take your time. Do the PT & it will all come back.

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    9 10

    I recently fell and I was told by my chiropractor that I might have pulled my rotar cuff? What does the surgery entale and how can you tell if you need the surgery? My x-rays didn’t show anything. What type of tests are available. The pain is still in my left shoulder and goes down to my fingers. I have tried ice and shots and steroids and nothing seems to help. Any suggestions.

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      9 10

      Hi Wendy,
      I had x-rays first which showed little tear in my rotar cuff, then my dr required an MRI which verified the findings… he had me on cortisone shots 2 in all and at the same time I went through physical therapy for 4 weeks. Usually that helps a lot of people but not with me. my pain continued without any improvements for 4-5 months till I saw this new surgeon that told me that nothing will help me and eventually I would need the surgery, so finally I did. it’s not fun at all and i’ve had lots of pain for the 2 weeks following surgery. in my case i’m so glad I went through it because I know it’s going to get better eventually, inspite of the pain i’m starting to get movements in my arm with less pain than I had before surgery. you have to explore all the options in your own particular case with your dr and do not go for it unless you feel in peace with doing this decision.good luck to you

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