Problems After Subacromial Decompression Surgery

by Martin
(Aarhus, Denmark.)

I've read your excellent article - however it failed to mention side effects after this procedure.

I have had this surgical procedure done - removing the subacromial bursa. However, I have found that this has given me some other problems after surgery. I am not a doctor but I have educated myself on the anatomy of the shoulder joint and it would seem that the biceps nerve which goes through the shoulder joint is somehow scraping against the acromion - now that there is no bursa to smooth things out.

Could you maybe point me some directions on any articles or material that describes any possible side effects of this surgery?

I am trying to educate myself, since I have found that most doctors unfortunately treat people like myself with legitimate questions as either hypochondriacs or they are too arrogant to really listen to a non-doctor trying to figure out what the hell went wrong.


Regards,
Martin

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Problems After Subacromial Decompression Surgery

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Aug 08, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Biceps tendon?
by: Bart - SII

Hi Martin - I think you must have meant the biceps tendon (biceps longhead) which does run through the shoulder joint between the humerus and the acromion - the nerves of the brachial plexus and upper extremity all run anterior or inferior of the humerus and course through the axilla on their way to the arm.

You are right, there isn't as much padding to prevent impingement of the soft tissues of the shoulder on the acromion - however, there is more space in the subacromial space, so you should have less impingement.

The key to this surgery working is re-establishing good muscle control to keep the humeral head centered on the glenoid and avoid excessive riding up onto the acromion.

After surgery you should be focusing on improving your shoulder strength, but also the strength of the muscles in your upper back.

The most commonly seen problems after a subacromial decompression surgery are

Loss of range of motion or inability to fully regain all shoulder motion, decreased strength, continued pain, pain at night, increased pain with weather changes.

Most of these problems are alleviated with proper rehabilitation following surgery.

hope this helps - comment back with other questions
Feb 16, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Bicep Pain after subacromial decompression
by: Cathey

Martin -

How long since your surgery? Mine has been about 5 weeks and my bicep pain has not improved. My surgeon insists it has nothing to do with my surgery; however, it was not there before surgery and is intolerable now. I am having increased trouble sleeping due to the pain and discomfort.

Any recommendations?
Apr 05, 2009
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star 		to martin
by: dani

I hear you on how doctors treat us...dang. I'm one year since my injury &10 months since surgery. I have constant pain. Guess I'll never be able to hook a real bra again. Can not get my arm behind my back past my waist. My shoulder blade area hurts constantly, & believe it or not, the worst time is when I eat> What"s up with that? Therapist sez maybe injury in back or neck? xrays show nothing. Cold weather is hell. Why's that? It is the pits & I just came on your site, trying to find some answers. Well, not your site, but boy did I understand what you were saying. Best of luck in recovery, Dani
Apr 29, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Glenoid fracture
by: Jeff Hubbs

I had a glenoid fracture, recieved therapy and am still having pain after two years. I have two pins in my shoulder I cannot sleep seeing as it is 0300 hr's here in Illinois. I was knocked off a ladder it has effected my sleep my sex life and everything I am tired of Narcotics for pain I have gained 70 lbs from not being able to work out and still have pain. what can I do
May 01, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Had both shoulders operated on
by: Donna

I'm glad I am not the only one. I had subacromial decompressions and debriement on both of my shoulders following a cervical fusion of the C5/C6 five months prior to them. Shortly after my cervical fusion I developed pain in both of my upper arms...it was bad, could barely lift my arms from the pain. I had the shoulder surgeries done 6 weeks a part. The first surgery was 3/08 and the 2nd at the end of 4/08. I am still in PT, still taking anti-inflammatories which are eating up my stomach, and still in pain. Although the original pain has improved, the new pain seems to be worse. I have been getting trigger point injections with minimal success. I too would love to have my life back.
Jun 15, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		glad i had the op
by: Anonymous

i had my first surgery just over a week ago, it was hell and first and i thought no way was i having the other done, but now a week on from my op the only thing bugging me is my stitches as i had open surgery on it, i can now reach up my back still struggling at lifting my arm up but the pain is so much better then before my op.
Jul 18, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		not encouraging
by: jaxx

I this surgery July 2 and i can't tell if my pain is coming from insertion points of the tools (they did grind through my arm to get inside), or from the bursa sack removal and bone smoothing. it seems the top of my bicep right below incision sites hurts just from the pressure of placing my hand over my muscles. i do my exercises every day and after 2 wks (maybe still too early( it feels tight and i can't lift it up much without pain.

i was told most people with this surgery do at home rehab w/ pulleys but i think i'm going to head over to rehab with people who might actually know what they're doing. i don't want to not work it enough and never get my range of movement back.

is anyone sleeping on their shoulder after a year?
Jul 18, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sleeping on Shoulders
by: Donna

It has been almost 1 1/2 years since I had both shoulders done and I am just starting to sleep on my shoulders, but not without pain and discomfort. I can fall asleep sometimes on my side but it almost always wakes me up with pain and I have to roll over. Even sleeping on my back causes discomfort because your shoulders drop back. If you use a thin pillow and just lay it under your upper arm it will really help.

I wouldn't try sleeping on your side just yet because you will only aggreviate it and make for a miserable day the next day.

There are still many things I cannot do because I don't have the strengh back - due to set backs in PT. Everytime I got passed the stretching exercises and tried to move on to strengthen they would flare up and usually caused me having to go back on steriods.

Finally after 1 1/2 years I am doing strengthening exercises to strengthen my upper back. It is slow going but after switching PT places I am making improvement and feel soon I will see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Whatever you do - do not do anything while holding your arms over your head for quite sometime. I am told this will surely aggreviate and damper you progress.

Donna
Jul 18, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		When will the bursa come back
by: jaxx

I was told the bursa sack would rejuvenate itself and come back. How long does this take? Without it, aren't we more prone to tear our rotator cuff muscles?
Jul 18, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Bursa Sac Growth
by: Donna

I don't recall the surgeon stating that it would grow back. I thought when they shaved the acronim that was to free up some space so everything would glide better. I certainly hope mine doesn't grow back...I don't ever want to go through this again.

Donna
Jul 18, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		RE: Bursa
by: jaxx

I do believe some of it will grow back. I'll try and find a good source. Bursa itself is not the issue.. you want this to protect your tendons and rotator cuff muscles from rubbing against bone and tearing/fraying. Inflamed bursa is the problem and what causes pain (less room for muscles to move around). I have a follow up appt. coming up, I'll confirm some things and post them.
Sep 03, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Subacromial Decompression Surgery
by: jake regan, england

i had Subacromial Decompression Surgery to my left shoulder 18 months ago. it hurt for about 3 months after and i was worried that the operation hadnt worked.After physio and rehab it seemed to be much better.about 3 weeks ago it started to ache alot and i wondered what i had done wrong.I dont remember having an accident or bumping it.I have been taking a ibuprofen gel anti inflamitory 3 times a aday but it hasnt helped.what should i do?
Sep 03, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		To the poster above
by: Jaxx

My surgery was two months ago, at what point did your shoulder feel better (before it started to hurt again)? I put pressure on it last Friday and it went "POP". I've been in a lot of pain since, and my movement is back to where it was a few days after surgery. Pain too.

Before last Friday it was feeling much better, and my movement was great (for two months out).

Are you icing it?
Sep 16, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		No Problem Here
by: Baseball9

I had my right shoulder done on halloween in 2007 and it feels great now. It took me about 2 months before I could sleep in my own bed comfortably. Also, After my surgery I was told I wouldn't be able to throw a baseball until late January of 08 but I worked hard at my rehab and was tossing a ball 4 days before Christmas. My shoulder healed up nicely and I haven't had a problem with it. I am now going to have my left shoulder done in 2 weeks and I hope I have as much good luck with it as I did my right one.
Sep 22, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		still frozen
by: zabrina

i had the decompression surgery w/ removal of bone spur and manipulation on july 20 2009 i have been in physical therapy every sinse and i have had another steroid shot as well sinse surgery and my shoulder still is frozen and week i have a little less mobility than what i had before surgery i dont have a lot of pain or inflamation prior to surgery i had 20 weeks of p therapy and a steroid shot nothing frees it up what can else can be done anything or am i just stuck with this condition permnantley
Sep 22, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		still frozen
by: zabrina

i have had 26 weeks of physical therapy 2 steroid shots and subcromial decompression surgery that i had on july 20 2009 and my shoulder is still frozen i have no better mobility than what i had before surgery i have missed almost three months of work can they do anything else for me or is this it?
Oct 26, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Subacromial smoothing
by: Sharon Hunt

I had Subacromial smoothing surgery on 9-14. I started physical therapy the week after. The PT was uncomfortable, but not unbearable. Last week my shoulder started to hurt so bad that it brings me to tears several times a day. I can't imagine living like this. I am wondering if the pt and home exercise program is too much. I am desperate for relief and answers. Is there anyone out there that had this surgery performed, had a LOT of pain, but got better eventually? I would LOVE some words of encouragement.

Thank you.
Oct 28, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Response to Sharon
by: Donna

Hi Sharon,

I had both shoulders done (you can read my previous posts with issues). It has been about 1 1/2 years since my surgeries and just in the last month or more have I finally gotten some relief. I had a lot of flare ups with PT trying to find the right balance of stretching and strenghten. My doctor told me not to do too much because it can set you back in pain. You have to keep it moving though or you will have pain, but it takes a lot of patiences. I know it is very frustrating. I still have difficulties sleeping on my sides, but the pain has lessen. The turning point for me was seeking a second opinion on the pain and starting with a new PT person. They concentrated on releasing the knots that had accumlated. Good luck...hang in there.
Donna
Oct 31, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Problems after subacromial decompressions surgery
by: Sharon Hunt

Hi Donna,

Thank you so much for writing. I am returning to work on Monday and am in a near panic in trying to figure out how I am going to work and deal with my pain too. A year and a half is a LONG time Donna.... I feel so bad for you as I know exactly what you have been going through. BUT, by you saying that you are finally feeling better, has given me a little bit of light down that very long tunnel to look forward to. Your comment about finding a PT to work out the knots hit home with me. I had been thinking that one of the main things that has been causing me so much pain was my spasming muscles, and I was thinking that I would start paying someone to massage my shoulder a couple of times a week. The doctor keeps saying, "stretch, stretch, stretch," and my PT does work on this during my sessions, along with a little bit of massage, followed by several exercises in the gym. They do tell me to stop if any particular exercise causing me a lot of pain. When I try and stretch my arm at home, it causes me SO MUCH pain that I have to stop. I don't want my shoulder to "freeze up," but it feels the best when I don't push things. Please keep me posted as to your progress and any "tips" you might have. I will do the same. You can email me directly at "theorchardhouse@verizon.net" Take Care!Sharon
Nov 07, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		sub decompresion
by: ivor

i had my shoulder op on 16.10.09 after a fall last year made it intolerable.since the op i have difficulty in moving the muscles in my arm and sleeping on my side.given the choice i would not go through it again.i was not told about any side effects by any medical personelle.shame on them.
Nov 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		This is tougher than I imagined
by: Byron

I had surgery late October. Initially, pain was controlled via med's and coming off of being numb. But once overdrive kicked in I was like oh, oh, oh 12 out of 10 pain range. The med's did nothing except help me sleep.

I had no clue it would come on so strong. I've gotten past the worse "I believe" but still am at a constent 4-5 out of 10 range of pain.

The problem I have is Physical therapy. I go in a 5 and leave there an 7-9 pain range. I'd like to recover quickly but Physical Therapy almost seems to set me back vice pick me up.

I'm talking this regiment is violently painful. Please tell me it'll get better and soon. My doctor says to have the therapists scale back but the therapists have one gear "full throttle".

Nov 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Response to Bryon
by: Donna

Bryon - RUN from that physical therapy place and run fast! Recovery from this surgery is slow and you have to listen to your body. You shouldn't not be in that range of pain when you leave the PT's office. Some discomfort is the norm, but it should just be discomfort not pain. If you push your shoulder to its limit it is going to fight back with pain and only set you back.

There are those PT people who are aggressive and some that don't do enough. You have to find someone in the middle and mort importantly someone who will listen to you and your body. Unless you live in a remote area I am sure there are other PT places around. Find someone who is use to working with the arm/shoulder - there are PT people who specialize and that may be better for you.

The pain will get better, but you have to listen to your body so you don't have a setback and end up taking more predisone then is necessary. I have found Aleve to be very helpful. Ask you doctor how much you can safely take because you can take more than what is recommend. Also, using a bag of frozen peas an ice pack really works well because it conforms to your shoulder. It was my best friend for months!!

Hope tomorrow brings a better day for you.
Donna
Nov 11, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Going for this operation tomorrow
by: Anonymous

Hi Everyone,
Just found your site trying to get some information as to whats going to happen tomorrow.
I am having subacromial decompression surgery, and biceps tenodosis tomorrow afternoon, not really looking forward to it, but hoping I will have less problems than i am doing at the moment.
I slipped on my stairs 2 years ago come February and it has took me all this time to get to where i am now, i have had the Physio, the cortisone injections and no relief, so I am pinning all my hopes on this working for me tomorrow.
Nice to read all of your postings.
Kathy
Nov 11, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Response to Bryon
by: Donna

Sorry if this is a duplicate - I sent a reply yesterday and now I don't see. ;-( Anyway...If you are going in to PT at a 5 range they should be doing light stretches, massage to loosen the tight muscles and ultra sound to reduce the inflatmation and that is it. You shouldn't leave there in that much pain. They are doing you a disservice.

You need to find a new PT person and/or a new PT place to go too. There are some PT people who are very aggressive with deep tissue release techniques...they are not for everyone. There are then those who have a very light touch and while they are good while you are hurting you really need to find someone in between. You need someone who is going to listen to you and your body and they should be able to tell you "No, you are babying your shoulder and you can do more or You are doing too much we need to back off for a week and then slowly reintroduce that exercise."

Of course everyone will heal at a different rate, but what you are describing in concerning. I was told when I did PT and ended up with that much pain that we were moving forward to fast and that I needed to listen to my body - this was by the surgeon. Even the PT person was concerned and went back to the doctor for additional input on changing the regimate that was originally established.

It has been 1 1/2 years now since I had both shoulders done. I am finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Most days I don't even notice the pain anymore and am down to one Aleve a day. I had been taking 4 a day and prior to that 2400 mg of Motrin a day. So, it will get better but you have to know when to do more and when to back off. You will have to do this on and off for months.

Take care and I hope you pain resolves quicker then mine did.

Donna
Nov 19, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		I'm back
by: Byron

I meant to mention this was my left shoulder. My last visit with the Physical Therapist brought up the subject of possible (FSS) Frozen Shoulder Syndrome or tear somewhere else. I'm still going in "same PT" and they're trying stretch it out.

Not sure if I'm going to receive another MRI or X-ray to narrow down the complications I'm suffering from after S A D surgery. I know one thing for sure I'm hurting and feel as though I'm adding to my injury during PT sessions.

Pain is still at a 24 hour (5-6). They've changed my meds but they simply get me more sleep.

I'll continue to check your notes to assist myself in making better choices.

Dec 08, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		33 years of shoulder pain
by: Bruce

WOW everybody!! Now I don't feel so bad for having shoulder pain(4 surgery's on the same shoulder; ugh!) for the last 33 years!!! I thought surgeons would have better practices and knowledge after all these years...
Today I have almost zero lateral rotation and can only lift my arm high enough to be parallel with the ground. I know how painful shoulder injuries are and I sympathize with you all!!!!! My pain is daily and I've learned to live with it after kicking the addiction to percocet. I cried the day my Dr. cut me off. I love watching the TV show HOUSE because he reminds me of what I was going through with pills and helps me live with pain. Back in the day, the physical therapist pushed me to unbearable pain, only to find out in a later surgery that I bent the #10 cortical bone that was subsequently removed. I've done everything possible and have accepted I'm handicapped in the left shoulder with daily pain. Sucking-up and bearing it. Good Luck All!
B
Dec 09, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hanging in There (literally!)
by: Sharon Hunt

Hello,

I am almost three months past surgery on my right shoulder, and have finally started noticing an increase in my range of motion. I have been in PT since the second week. Since this is a Workman's Comp issue, I am always worrying about being "cut off." My doctor keeps saying I need more PT, but the WC people make my therapist "jump through" hoops in her reports to keep the therapy going. I am waiting to hear from the WC people if I can continue going to PT after this week. I do have an attorney, but they don't seem too concerned about this. Although I am finally seeing improvment in range of motion, I am still not back to where I was before my surgery. My pain, although better than a month ago, is still high (3 - 7 on most days); and the pain medication does little but to help me sleep... which is a GOOD thing so I won't knock it! Would I do this again... probably NOT... but I am hoping to look back on this a year from now and say yes! I pray that I will be able to continue PT, because there is little hope for improvement if I am cut off.

Sharon
Dec 21, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		New years eve surgery
by: Lori

I am due to have subacromial decompression surgery on new years eve. I have had shoulder pain, maybe a 3 from April to August that increased to a 5 off and on and now a 7 off and on. Did the cortisone shot and 6 weeks of PT which made it significantly worse. I have near full ROM and little weakness. Somewhat hesitant considering I may lose this after surgery but the pain is becoming more of a constant thing with little everyday tasks becoming more and more painful and difficult. MRI shows a calcium deposit that possibly enters the rotator cuff.
Dec 22, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Subacromial smoothing
by: Sharon Hunt

Hi Lori,

I am highly biased because my surgery has not been that successful. One of the reasons I did decide to have the surgery was a hope that my pain level would decrease... it didn't. But I have found in my "research," that for every case that was less than a success, there is one that WAS successful. In retrospect, I wish that I had given physical therapy more of a chance to work. Although my Workman Comp group "cut me off;" I wish I had demanded through my attorney more PT before I agreed to the surgery. Maybe you should try another PT group? What ever you decide to do, make sure that your surgeon has excellent credentials. Do NOT compromise on this! I wish you the best of luck Lori.

Sincerely,

Sharon
Dec 28, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		new years eve surgery
by: Lori

I did the PT and it only made it worse. My surgeon specializes in shoulders and has added credentials in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. He performed a manipulation under anesthesia last year for my other shoulder when I broke my collarbone and later developed a frozen shoulder. One month later, with intense PT, I was moving it normally. I have total confidence in him.
Jan 14, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Young Painter with severe shoulder, neck and back pain
by: Noel

Hey Everyone
I had a SAC on my right shoulder back in August of 2009, and after going to PT for at least 3 months (2x week), I'm in much worse pain than I was immediately following surgery. My PT instructor immediately told me that not only is my shoulder blade out of place (2 inches off), but my first seven vertibrae are impinged on the right and causing severe radiating never pain down my arm and back. Considering I never had a trama incident to cause the shoulder injury, and therefore it is probably just anatomical deformity, I am afraid that the nerve pain won't go away. I'm only 22, but painting is my professional career, so if anyone has recommendations to deal with the compounded injury, I would appreciate it. I feel like my PT instructor doesn't understand how to deal with the neck and nerve pain, and pushes me too hard. I'm going back for a follow up with my surgeon soon, so please give me recommendations!
Noel
Jan 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel:
by: Sharon Hunt

Hi Noel,

I think the first thing you need to do is see your surgeon and share with him or her what your PT told you. I would not panic until you do so, because it is entirely possible that your PT does not know what she or he is talking about! I can't imagine your doctor not being able to diagnose a congenital deformity of the magnitude indicated by your PT. My gut instinct is that you should find another PT group to go to as well. That said, I do know that personally, I was in TREMENDOUS pain for about 4 months post surgery which seemed to be exacerbated by my PT sessions. I am STILL in pain, but thank God it IS finally getting better.

The second thing is Noel, maybe now is the time to think about a NEW job. You are very young and have a lot of time to retrain for something else. You are probably on disability, and I think that WC might pay for you to be retrained if your injury will prevent you from continuing on with your current line of work. Find something where you can "push a pencil" instead of a paint brush... it is a lot easier on the body! The health care industry is booming now and looks to keep doing so for many years to come.

Good luck kiddo!

Sharon
Jan 21, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		SAD surgery bad results
by: Sue

I just had my 2nd SAD surgery yesterday--to manipulate & and remove scar tissue to relieve a "frozen shoulder" as result of the 1st SAD surgery done in Sep 2009.

I went to 35 PT sessions since the 1st surgery and still ended up 'frozen' and going back for second surgery. I feel handicapped now and back to square one and 100% worse off than before the initial SAD surgery. I wouldn't do it over again if I could go back. I'm still too young to not be able to lift my main arm past waist level. So sorry & SAD I did this surgery.
Jan 22, 2010
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starstarstarstar 		Successful decompression etc
by: Anonymous

Had decompression and reconstruction where my biceps tendon should be. My surgeon cut the tendon and then reattached it to the proper place at the humeral head within the bicep groove. One week out and I feel tight..no real pain. I was told no PT for 4 weeks until the joint heals from the trauma of surgery. He had given me my limits on ROM and no lifting using my bicep muscle.
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		I am not alone
by: Anonymous

I had subcromial decompression 8 weeks ago. I was informed 2 weeks after my surgery by the doctor that he had found a bicep tear during the procedure (which explained the huge bruise just above my elbow). He really did not explain anything to me, PT has been hell, getting meds is a pain and people keep telling me to suck it up. I too will never be able to put a bra on in a normal fashion (guys never understand this) , getting dressed in the morning is a huge pain and I wonder when my pain will end. I feel like the surgeon wants things to be one way and physical therapy wants it to me the other and I am simply a "monkey in the middle" they they get to manipulate to their liking.
I wish that I had never had this surgery but am glad that I am not alone with the things that I have experienced.
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		I am not alone
by: Donna

You need to modify the way you do things. For starters - switch to a racer back bra that closes in the front. The racer back will keep the strap from digging into the shoulder - HUGE help...believe me I know. I had both shoulders done 1 1/2 years ago. Still have pain, but it is manageable on most days. The front clasp allows you to put your own bra on.

As far as PT and the surgeon. Go for a second opinion. I felt like a yoyo between the two as well. I finally got fed up after about 6 months and sought help elsewhere. I switched to a new practice that sent me to a new PT person and within the first week I could feel some improvement...it was slight, but felt monumental at the time.

Hope you are feeling better soon!
Donna
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		cortisone shot
by: Noel

I was having pretty severe pain after my shoulder surgery (subacromial decompression), even with three months of pt, I felt I plateaued at a constant state of pain ranging between 4-7 depending on the activity. I went back to see my surgeon to get some suggestions on what I could do, and he gave me a cortisone shot into my shoulder. It has helped tremendously. While not a permanent fix, it lowered my pain to a 1-2, and relieved a ton of stress on my shoulder blade and shoulder. I feel I can do my exercises better and when there is less pain and stress on the body, there is more room for healing. For some people, my surgeon said the shot lasts a couple months, for others, a couple weeks. However, I would strongly recommend asking about it.
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks Donna
by: Anonymous

I am a Donna to so I posted as not alone. I am going to see my surgeon for the second time since my 12/11/09 surgery on 2/2/10. I should be interesting what he has to say, as PT says I have actually lost more range of motion than I started with right after the surgery. I am taking my husband with me, who happens to be an attorney , and will let him ask the questions that were not previously discussed. It is a rather dubious position as my husband is something of a bulldog and I may be looking for that second opinion on 2/3 if he has his way.
Thanks for the advice, I have been hooking the bra in front and swinging it toward the back but I have been doing that since May.
Let me ask you this, what do you think of asking for another block for pain, or something that would prevent the pain like cortisone did previously?
Another Donna (formally anonymous)
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Donna
by: Donna

You may just need to give it time. You are only what 6 weeks out of surgery. You are going to have to keep it moving. My original surgeon told me it would take quite some time and that if you try to rush it by doing too much you will only set yourself back. I did several bouts of steriods, which helped tremendously. But once I had to stop it was horrible.

You can always go for that second opinion and just see what someone else has to say and more importantly if they are saying the same things as your surgeon. Also, not sure if you have ever used a PT person prior to this, but they are all different. Make sure you are using someone who listens to you and your body...so, so important. You don't want some one who just goes by the book because it says patient should this or that at this interval. Everyone is different and they should be tailoring to your personal needs. Although I liked my first personal trainer, the second one did wonders for me.

I doubt they will do another pain block. Besides they are only short lived. Are you still using the ice machine? Keeping the inflamation down and under control is so important. I switched to bags of frozen peas. They conform to your shoulder nicely and you can just keep refreezing them. My surgeon also had me on 2400 mg of Mortin a day - it really helped.

Donna
Jan 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		rotator cuff involved...
by: Lori

Well surgery on new years eve turned out different than i planned. I found out on my post-op visit 6 days later that my calcium deposit was well attached to the rotator cuff and once removed, left a hole in it that needed to be repaired. So, 4 weeks off work, with annoying sling and no driving. I've been doing pt for three weeks to keep it from getting too stiff.Now the pt is becoming more difficult and painful. Very painful at night when I sleep. Dr. says it is irritated from pt and home exercises and take 9 Advil a day for 10-14 days and ice before bedtime.

I'm hopeful this night pain subsides. I've had to take 2 Vicodin to knock it out and it doesn't last very long. Back to work Monday with regular sling. No lifting with arm for 1 month and sling up to 2 more weeks
Feb 04, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		2 operations and still painful !
by: Sarah

Great forum.. lucky I found it!.. I had an RSI in 2008 in the wrist from PC at work.. this went to pains in arm/elbow and resulted finally in frozen shoulder. Then had an MUA which gave me more movement but still painful - PT was sometimes helpful but very painful too. I returned to work after 6 months off (cos it was RSI) and carried on with exercises now an then but thought it would never get to 100% painfree and full movement. In June 2009 at hospital check up a junior doctor discharged me but had such a bad attitude I complained about him. The specialist saw me to apologise etc and then after examination told me I needed a Sub ac Decompression and acrominal joint excision !!.. Dont know how this happened and why I needed another op but I had it done finally last Nov. They also removed the bursa as well. I'm still in pain but exercising like mad which is killing !.. I'm now not sure if the exercises are too much as I have to do them 4 times a day.. really fed up with it all seems as if I've had shoulder pain for years !! Does anyone think exercises can cause more damage and should they really hurt that much ? I dont know whether to ease up on them or what to do ??
Feb 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Me too!
by: Anonymous

Glad I'm not the only one having problems. Had subacromial decomp sept 2007 biceps tendonesis. Went fairly well for a while and then froze. Had manipulation (oh god how painful) then two months later hydrodilatation (better). My surgeon had me convinced that the problem was all in my head!!! Which I almost believed until I was told recently that the bio-tenodesis screw can cause inflammation and swelling while it is dissolving! ( my head ? oh yeah!) May have to have surgery now to remove remnants of screw. I get angry, fed up and very frustrated but you have to keep going. Wish you all a good nights sleep!!!!!!!
Feb 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Second visit with my surgeon
by: Donna 2

So I have posted before and said I was seeing my surgeon on 2/2/10, I took my attorney husband with me this time. The doctor came in and looked at me and talked some. I mentioned that my bicep hurt and I supposed that was from the bicep tear he had found during my surgery which he told me about in my first post op visit. The surgeon said "I never told you that you had a bicep tear." *Huh*? I went through the comversation that we had had at that appointment and he said " You have a rotator cuff tear." Now I know a little about anatomy having been an aerobics instructor and science teacher for 10+ years and I do know the difference between my bicep and rotator cuff. Needless to say my husband jumped in with a bunch of questions finally deciding that the doctor probably had the wrong chart during my first post op visit. The doctor showed us all kinds of pictures of my shoulder during the second visit and spent a great deal of time with us. He ended up saying I am about 2 weeks behind schedule and that there is a possibility of a frozen shoulder but that it is easily treated with a second surgery.....In the end the "men" decided I should go to the doctor's office for my physical therapy as my previous therapists were probably babying me and that my husband should be at all of my doctor's visits!. The doctor did say he would give me a cortisone shot next month but not yet.
What sound does a duck make!?
Donna
Feb 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Comment for Sarah
by: Sharon Hunt

PT WILL definitely be painful for the first several months, if not more. I do remember that for the first two months I was in tears almost every time, but it did get better. The worst part was having my PT manipulate my shoulder to stretch it and keep it from getting frozen... but it still became partially frozen even with all her hard work. It takes a LOT of work both at home with the home therapy exercises and at the PT sessions. After 4 months workman's comp cut me off. I am now no longer progressing like I was because I don't have my therapist manipulating and stretching my arm. Good luck, and stay in PT as long as you can. If you really think your therapist is not a good one, ask to change to a different group.
Mar 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Post SAD pain 10 months on
by: Sammy

I had SAD keyhole surgery (right shoulder) and part of the clavicle removed in May 2009 because of Osteoarthritis (I was only 39) and I have only recently stopped the Morphine and Dihydrocodeine but I am still in pain, have limited mobility and weakness. There is also a 15mm partial tear in the tendon that was not there prior to the surgery! I had an MRI scan at the weekend and muscle and nerve tests, to find out what has gone wrong. I won't know the results of the MRI until April 1 but the muscle and nerve tests were ok. I wish I had not had the surgery as I am much more worse off than before. The plan was to do the left shoulder too once the right one had healed but that will not be happening.
Mar 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Post SAD pain 10 months on
by: Sammy

I had SAD keyhole surgery (right shoulder) and part of the clavicle removed in May 2009 because of Osteoarthritis (I was only 39) and I have only recently stopped the Morphine and Dihydrocodeine but I am still in pain, have limited mobility and weakness. There is also a 15mm partial tear in the tendon that was not there prior to the surgery! I had an MRI scan at the weekend and muscle and nerve tests, to find out what has gone wrong. I won't know the results of the MRI until April 1 but the muscle and nerve tests were ok. I wish I had not had the surgery as I am much more worse off than before. The plan was to do the left shoulder too once the right one had healed but that will not be happening.
Mar 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Clavicle operation
by: Sarah

Great forum.. lucky I found it!.. I had an RSI in 2008 in the wrist from PC at work.. this went to pains in arm/elbow and resulted finally in frozen shoulder. Then had an MUA which gave me more movement but still painful - PT was sometimes helpful but very painful too. I returned to work after 6 months off (cos it was RSI) and carried on with exercises now an then but thought it would never get to 100% painfree and full movement. In June 2009 at hospital check up a junior doctor discharged me but had such a bad attitude I complained about him. The specialist saw me to apologise etc and then after examination told me I needed a Sub ac Decompression and acrominal joint excision !!.. Dont know how this happened and why I needed another op but I had it done finally last Nov. They also removed the bursa as well. I'm still in pain but exercising like mad which is killing !.. I'm now not sure if the exercises are too much as I have to do them 4 times a day.. really fed up with it all seems as if I've had shoulder pain for years !! Does anyone think exercises can cause more damage and should they really hurt that much ? I dont know whether to ease up on them or what to do ??


-------------------------------------------------
Poor you Sammy hope they can help you and dont blame you for not having the other shoulder done !
..Following on from my story (above) I was told this week that my clavicle is now sticking up at the end (following the SAD op) and the only option is open surgery to remove the end of it.

Cant believe how long shoulder problems take to improve.. If I go ahead this will be my 3rd operatio. Had a steroid jab this week too but so far no great improvement as its still aching from the shot.
How much of the clavicle did you have removed?

Mar 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD and Distal Clavicle Resection -- Problems Started About 6 Mos. Post-Op
by: ldcapri

After having chronic impingement in my right shoulder for about 9 months, I had SAD and distal clavicle resection (I had 1 cm of the clavicle removed). I completed a full course of physical therapy and felt great. Range of motion was not 100% but close enough. After 6 mos. or so, I started getting terrible shooting pain in my bicep. The AC joint and the end of the collarbone that was cut became very sore and hurt to the touch. Had an MRI which indicated I had biceps tendonitis -- for no apparent reason because I was not overusing the shoulder in any way. This continued to get worse...I tried everything massage, acupuncture, trigger point injections. They were only temporary fixes.

I cannot sleep on my right side, can't get my arm behind me, can't lift it past the shoulder. There is constant pain. It almost feels like a tendon was sewn too tightly -- does that make sense?

When I'm holding something in my right hand with my arm at my side, it feels like something is pulling. I feel like asking my surgeon to just open it up and do something. Obviously, he's not going to do that unless he can see something specific. Has anyone had a second surgery? What did they find?
Apr 11, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Arthroscopic AC Decompression
by: GW

Hi guys. I'm so sorry to hear you've all had such a hard time. I found this site because I wanted to find out what can go wrong after surgery as I'm waiting for mine in May. Now I don't know what to do though really. I want my shoulder to get better, but most of the time it's bearable, so I'm wondering whether to leave it well alone. The trouble is, won't the rotator cuff tear if the bone spurs (or whatever they are) aren't taken away? Is it a case of 'rock and hard thing'?
Hope things get better soon.
Apr 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Response to GW
by: Donna

GW,

Being one of the people who had problems after the surgery I can tell you if you look up any surgery on the Internet you will see similar problems. However, there are many people who have the surgery and do not have any problems. While I did not have any complications from the surgery the pain was worse after the surgery and took a long time to calm down. I didn't know that per say prior to the surgery.

I had both of my shoulders done...6 weeks a part. It took almost 1 1/2 years before I finally felt some relief. I still wake up with pain if I lay on my side for too long or if it rains.

My spurs were creating microscopic tears in my rotar cuff and that causes pain. From what I understood surgery was not a must, but offered after all other conventional treatment did not work and the patient just couldn't tolerate the pain any longer.

If I were you I would write down some of the issues that were addressed here that concern you and take them to your surgeon and ask him/her about them. Ask him/her about real recovery times, what type of pain is expected and for how long, what complications can occur, etc. And then I would go and get a second opinion.

If I had it to do all over again I would do it because I am in less pain now, but it took a long, long time and a lot of physical therapy to get here. If you asked me this question a year ago I am not sure if I would have answered yes at the time though.

Best of luck to you. Shoulder pain is not fun and the longer you deal with it, you will affect your surrounding muscles by over compensating for the pain. It is really important to strengthen the muscles in your shoulder, shoulder blade, neck and back. It will have a huge impact on your recovery.

Donna
Apr 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Absolute Agony
by: Jules

Hi everyone,

I came across this website as I am at my final straw. I have had two sub crom operations in the last two and half years, with a bone spur being razored away both times. Now I am experiencing similiar pain for the third time!!! I cry with the pain. I cannot move my shoulder more than 90 degrees, suffering with pain travelling into my neck and down my back and bad headaches. I am researching as my specialist has told me this bone spur could keep growing back... HELL!!! I cannot go through with another operation. It stops me from working and enjoying day to day life. I dont sleep and spend hours just hplding my arm wishing the pain would go away. Anyone else experiencing sam problem, I really dont know what to do??
Apr 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		First SAD and now carpal tunnel
by: Chelsea

I was just wondering if anyone feels similar pain to me after SAD. My operation was in October 08 and went to a 10 week rehab course which l would start okay on a Monday and go home in tears by Wednesday and by Friday l was a mess. I have alot more mobility in my arm now but l find l cant hold it up for more than a few seconds, l over compensate with my left arm because l know how much instant pain l receive if l push my right arm too much.
I did a nerve test and was told l actually have 'carpal tunnel syndrome', l dont understand how l have it when l dont have any of the symptoms. Now l have to know if the supposed carpal tunnel problem was somehow caused by the surgery or 'just one of those things'?
Like most of you, l dont even attempt to sleep on my right side because l know what happens.
I am due to go back to work any time now but l doubt l am going to last till lunchtime because of the pain l get when trying to do things.
Anyone have anything like me?
Apr 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3rd shoulder operation coming up !
by: Sarah

I've posted before about MUA for frozen shoulder and then last year SAD and Acrom jont excision... well still having pain and now am told the end of my collar bone tilts upwards and is causing problems. This wasn't like that before the Acrom joint excision so I'm confused now how this has happened.
I've been told that he will remove the end of collarbone by 'open surgery'.
Has anyone had this procedure or know anything about it .. recovery/pain etc ?
Not looking forward to it :(
Any comments would be helpful thanks
Apr 16, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pros and Cons
by: Armando

What are the pros and cons in having the Subacromial Decompression Surgery?

I've been dealing with a fall since Sept 09 and no relief in sight. My pain is on average 8-10 daily!
Apr 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Return to work from sub acrom op
by: John

I've found the comments on this topic educational & can empathize with the sentiments.

I had the op on right shoulder last October & I'm awaiting same op on left. Physio has been difficult due to limitation of left shoulder. I returned to work 2 months ago & they have been absolute ****'* to me.

Managers have totally ignored my own Medics advice & have ignored their own company doctors advice. They are now at the point where they are telling me what I am & am not capable of doing. They are giving me non-negotiable deadlines & have not complied with Health & Safety Legislation on my workstation. Every day is a constant battle & I'm now physically & mentally in a worse position than before I returned to work. So much for doing the right thing?

I've contacted my Government's national Health & Safety Inspectors & they are willing to intervene. It's just that I'm dealing with so much **** with the condition, I'm not sure how much more I can take.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.


Apr 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To john
by: Anonymous Dee

Hi John sorry to hear you are getting treated like shit at work. Unfortunately it happens. Don't be pushed into overextending its not worth it. I wrote in this column as anon earlier in the year. I had SAD and biceps tendonesis in 2007. Recovery seems to be slow for most people but each individual here seems to have a slight variation in exact problem, diagnosis and treatment options. For me the only thing that keeps me mobile is massage and physio. Had it for three years now. My left shoulder is failing badly now after all the stress.... my workcover doesn't admit liability for this problem as it didn't occur at the same time as the original injury. (Bah humbug) I eventually lost my job (sacked) lost my income and then my house I now work 17 hours a week and still take strong drugs daily. You can only keep plodding on and all the people who write their stories here support and understand your plight. Good Luck with your recovery!
Apr 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks Anonymous Dee
by: John

Your kind words are appreciated.

So sorry to hear you're still suffering. To lose your job, home & health is totally outrageous & unfair. I wish you well & hope better things are ahead for you. I still believe in Karma. Personally I always wish people 10-fold what they wish on me. Their choice.

I'm not going to cave to pressure to be bullied out of my long-term health. They'll never win. Everything you achieve in life comes from some quality of health & self-worth.

Take care Dee

John
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		also SAD
by: Anonymous

Had SAD 2 1/2 months ago and have wished since that I had not done it. I had severe bursitis and bone spur before surgery, still had full range of motion but had pain with certain movements and had to all but discontinue my weight training due to the pain. However, I had no pain at rest or during normal daily activities. Now, I have a hard time washing and fixing my hair, my hand shakes while trying to apply makeup and I am in constant pain and still can not move my arm past my waist behind me and have some scapular issues when moving my arm overhead. I have been told by my PT that it appears I may have some scar tissue attached to it. She seems to think with continued stretching and therapy we can take care of that. I also have a pinching sensation in the back of my shoulder when I try to rotate it back at 90 degrees which sends a sharp pain radiating on that side from my waist to my hand. She also told me that I may always have some degree of pinching there. What the Hell??? Isn't that why I had this surgery? I have ruined my life!!

I would like to know if anyone has had these issues and will surgery be required to fix it? I am in agony most of the time. On a scale of 1-10, I would honestly rate it a constant 5 with periods of a 7 or 8 following PT. I am constantly stretching and working on ROM, but I tend to become so sore following PT, that my muscles tighten up and I lose some of my mobility. I have not slept more than 2 hours at a time since the surgery. I only take pain meds before bed just to knock the edge off in order to get a little sleep, but even the pain meds do not get rid of the pain. I consider myself to have a pretty high tolerance for pain - I dealt with the shoulder pain prior to the surgery for more than a year, but this has really taken its toll on me and has really sent me into a bit of a depression. I was once very fit, but at this point, I am always in such pain and so tired from lack of sleep, I don't have the desire to do much of anything.

Someone please tell me this will get better! I see my doctor on Thursday but am not looking for much in the way of an explanation from him. He just kind of shrugged it off at my 1 month post op appointment. He did give me a cortisone injection, which did absolutely nothing as far as I can tell. I think he expected it to diminish the pain, but it did not.
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		also SAD
by: Anonymous

Had SAD 2 1/2 months ago and have wished since that I had not done it. I had severe bursitis and bone spur before surgery, still had full range of motion but had pain with certain movements and had to all but discontinue my weight training due to the pain. However, I had no pain at rest or during normal daily activities. Now, I have a hard time washing and fixing my hair, my hand shakes while trying to apply makeup and I am in constant pain and still can not move my arm past my waist behind me and have some scapular issues when moving my arm overhead. I have been told by my PT that it appears I may have some scar tissue attached to it. She seems to think with continued stretching and therapy we can take care of that. I also have a pinching sensation in the back of my shoulder when I try to rotate it back at 90 degrees which sends a sharp pain radiating on that side from my waist to my hand. She also told me that I may always have some degree of pinching there. What the Hell??? Isn't that why I had this surgery? I have ruined my life!!

I would like to know if anyone has had these issues and will surgery be required to fix it? I am in agony most of the time. On a scale of 1-10, I would honestly rate it a constant 5 with periods of a 7 or 8 following PT. I am constantly stretching and working on ROM, but I tend to become so sore following PT, that my muscles tighten up and I lose some of my mobility. I have not slept more than 2 hours at a time since the surgery. I only take pain meds before bed just to knock the edge off in order to get a little sleep, but even the pain meds do not get rid of the pain. I consider myself to have a pretty high tolerance for pain - I dealt with the shoulder pain prior to the surgery for more than a year, but this has really taken its toll on me and has really sent me into a bit of a depression. I was once very fit, but at this point, I am always in such pain and so tired from lack of sleep, I don't have the desire to do much of anything.

Someone please tell me this will get better! I see my doctor on Thursday but am not looking for much in the way of an explanation from him. He just kind of shrugged it off at my 1 month post op appointment. He did give me a cortisone injection, which did absolutely nothing as far as I can tell. I think he expected it to diminish the pain, but it did not.
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Reply to Also Sad
by: Donna

Your story is so close to mine. The only difference is I had pretty much full range of motion. This April marks 2 years since I have had both of my shoulders done

I am not sure what your surgeon is telling you, but I will tell you what I was told and it did make sense although I really didn't realize it was going to be this bad after surgery...after all we all had surgery to get rid of the pain. I was told that during PT I would get to the point where it would become too much due to pushing myself too much. My surgeon told me at that point I needed to back off a bit and not try to push the healing process so fast. He said it would take time(I just had no idea it would take 1 1/2 yrs to get relief.). He said if you push your shoulder too much it is only going to flare up and then take a couple weeks to calm down.

This was so true. I would do what I thought the PT person was telling me, but the problem is the PT person unless they are really listening to you have no idea what you are feeling. I eventually sought help through my family doctor who sent me to another orthopedic doctor who then sent me to another PT person. Within the first week I felt remarkably better. There are so many muscles affected by this surgery and you over compensating for your injury.

I had the pinching pain as well in my neck, shoulder blades, etc. The majority of this was relieved by PT and trigger injections to relieve the knots. It did however; take several months to calm down. This is not an over night feel better remedy and can take months as I am living proof of.

I have been in your position and can tell you I truly understand your agony and depression. It is horrible to go through surgery to end up in more pain, be unable to sleep, walk around like a zombie during the day and deal with pain 24/7.

What helped for me:

After about 4 months? I sought a second opinion and switched all of my care to the second opinion doctor.
Used Predisone on and off for several months - in between I took 2400 mg of Motrin a day.
Used frozen peas daily
If pain became more than a 4/5 during or after a exercise through PT I backed off for a week or more. I then slowly introduced back if I could tolerate it.
During PT I received ultrasound every week to reduce inflammation, massage to release tight muscles - this was done on my neck, shoulder blade, area between collar bone and under arm (this area was pretty painful but pivotal in reducing a majority of my pain), and take home exercises and stretches.
Do not do anything that requires lifting and moving with your arms extended over your shoulders or straight out over your body. For example - don't think you are going to use a roller and paint a room or lift a laundry basket full of clothes out in front of you. Your muscles just can't handle it.

I know it is not what you wanted to hear, but I hope your recovery goes quicker then mine. Good luck and I will keep you in my prayers.
Donna
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Reply to Donna from Also SAD
by: Anonymous

My surgeon told me at my 1 month appointment that I was overdoing the PT (I was going 3x a week to a PT that thought the further we stretched the better and it was excruciating). I changed therapists and cut back to 2x a week. I am probably still overdoing it on my own because I am constantly stretching and working on my ROM. However, I am so afraid that if I back off that I will lose what ROM I have gained.

You mentioned massage....I told my husband last night that I am so sick of being pulled and stretched. My muscles are always tight and I would love to just have someone rub them. I researched massage therapists last night and what type to look for. I think I need a deep tissue massage but I want to go to someone who really knows what they are doing and really knows the muscles. Not someone who just decided to choose massage therapy on a whim. Do you have any suggestions on what to look for in a therapist? I am planning on asking my doctor tomorrow if there is anyone he could recommend. I bet he will see that as an alternative medicine and you know how doctors feel about that. But, I seriously believe that if I could somehow release some of this tension in my right side, it would help my recovery.

Thanks so much for your advice. It helps to know that I am not the only one who has had difficulty with this procedure. I hope and pray I don't end up back under the knife. I don't know if I could handle that.
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Also Sad
by: Donna

To pick out a therapist you really want to go to a reputable place that has been around for awhile and then call and ask them who they have that could help you and how long they have been working there. I would also ask if you could speak the massage therapist first to tell them the problems you are having and ask them what they could do for you. You will probably be able to tell rather quickly if they are competent. I don't know if deep tissue would be such a great idea though. You don't want someone with a real light touch, but at the same time if the dig in they are probably going to hurt you, cause you to tense further tightening your muscles. It is such a vicous cycle. They have to know when to let up.

The massage I had was through my PT person and was part of what the doctor order for therapy...yours should be able to do it as well. Your doctor should be able to recommend someone though.

With your exercises are you using a towel under your arm for resistence? I don't know what the PT people call it, but it helps you do exercises without moving the shoulder all around. It focuses on the muscle. For example...if you are using a band between a door way, you have your arm bent at a 90 degree angle, standing sideward you are pulling the band...if you put a folded towel under your arm while doing the exercise you keep your arm/shoulder from flailing all around and causing further inflamation in the joint. I don't know what this technique is called but you should ask about it if you are not already doing it. It really helps.

Donna
Apr 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Back to you John!
by: Anonymous Dee

Hey thanks John
It feels good to make a connection on this page. yeah I also believe in Karma. Hope the next surgery goes well for you. I have an appointment with my surgeon in a few weeks and I'm dreading it! I have a really bad feeling that I'll be up for surgery on my other shoulder too! Hope not yet! Don't really fancy typing with my nose or toes!! ha ha
To you and all of the people who contribute here......Keep well and keep up a positive attitude, don't be pushed and have laugh whenever possible.... its the best therapy there is.
Ps I live in Victoria Australia where are you from?
Apr 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Glad to have found this
by: Cindy

I am learning fast how little surgeons inform patients of the outcomes of what they consider to be 3 simple hole surgeries(arthroscopic with sub acromial decompression) I am not sure I would have had this done if I had all the facts or statistics or read this feedback. I had my surgery March 11th and now have lost my inward rotation still which I had completely prior to the surgery. I went to physical therapy for 17 visits prior to this to avoid and still in pain then waited another 5 months to get second opinion and went for the surgery with second surgeon. I am now going to PT for 7 weeks twice a week since surgery at a different location and have made no progress other than being painfully forced stretched as shoulder capsule muscles are severely tightened. Oh yeah their measurements keep improving which according to my insurance coverage if they don't show progress the insurance stops paying but I don't see any improvement. Pain most of time, numbness and tingling, and sleep deprived. I was told this week ultrasound and deep tissue massage are not part of the treatment plan but yet I am getting knots as I also have a shoulder blade that wings out bad even prior to surgery. I have been faithfully working on exercises from July 2009-present with bands, weights, and range of motion. I did this so I could be pain free, more strength in shoulder and enjoy playing sports with the kids again as in 2009 told no as could damage shoulder with one strong hit. Now I only hope for the pain to go away and to get a full nights sleep. I am still not convinced I would ever do this again or recommend it for anyone. Knee surgery has better odds than this.
Apr 28, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Anonymous Dee
by: John

Hi Dee

I still view surgery as a last resort. I've taken lots of advice & I'm pretty much minded I'm going to leave the left shoulder until the right shoulder is as close to 100% recovered as possible. I'm thinking it'll be about 2 years.

I guess you're into your fitness? (this being a sports page). I've lost at least 1 stone of muscle. I can't help thinking that getting some of this muscle back may help my recovery. Do you have a view on this?

You seem very brave Dee. You've been through a lot & you're stepping up to the plate again! Plenty respect. If you do decide on another op? my only advice would be - what do you hope to gain from it? I guess if the plus points are overwhelming you'll have your answer. Shoulder surgery is big surgery.

I'm from England, UK. btw

Speak soon


John



Apr 28, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		John - Last resort - surgery
by: Anonymous Dee

Hi John and other writers
Yes I'm with you on surgery being the last resort!
Before having surgery on my right shoulder I tried everything; massage, accupuncture, lazer accupuncture, chiropractor, physio and cortisone but ultimately still ended up at the surgeons office.

As for me being into sports and fitness.. not really now. I have always been very physically fit until this. And yes I believe losing muscle bulk and weight are a side affect of surgery and you have to work at building up again. Be careful not to go too hard first as it can set your progress back! I think that even after two years some gains can be made. My surgery was in Sept 2007 and in the last few months I have had a little more improvement. So hang in there.

It's interesting .... in some articles I have read about these shoulder problems, it is referred to as weight lifters shoulder and is common where shoulders are put under load overhead... such as; weight lifting, volleyball, tennis etc. My problem was caused through heavy and repetative work over a long period of time, overextension under load overhead and forward. I was a weaver for 16 years.

I'm certainly no braver than anyone else here that has been through this process. I will definitely cringe when that needle comes near..ha ha.

I will decide about my left shoulder when the time comes.... I may never do it but who knows!?

Good luck with therapy and keep us posted!
May 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		It's all good!
by: Mandy

Hi, just wanted to post some positive words for anyone about to undergo this op. Having put up with pain for 2 years with no relief from injections I had an open decompression 4 days ago. My arm is currently immobilised (17 days to go) which is irritating but ok. The main thing is though that apart from needing a few paracetamol on the first 2 days as the wound was a bit sore I am now painfree and sleeping through the night for the first time in months. Ok so I know I have some hard work PT to do but this is one of the best decisions I have ever made.
May 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Follow up appt 2 months unscheduled
by: Cindy

I have started going to get a deep tissue massage done weekly and second one thus far loosened me up the most since knotting up in lat area wrapping around to my front. Pain down arm and into hand worsened 8 weeks after surgery. Massage person said she had never seen a client with so many problems as didn't know where to start the massage. She normally doesn't do the hot stone therapy but with me it was the only thing that would loosen me up. Still going to PT 2 times a week. Decided after having worst pain yet to see surgeon again and the answer is frozen shoulder now. He was quite upset as to how he or PT did not see this and it should not have happened as I am only his 3rd patient following SAD to get this. PT refused to listen to me a month back as stated surgeons won't do an MUA with only problem with one direction ROM. Guess what they were terribly wrong and I should have gone back sooner to surgeon. I have not been making progress at PT for 2 weeks but I personally think 4 weeks. I go 5/25 for MUA so hoping I can get my life back on track. I am grateful my employer understands when I tell them I have to leave early due to the pain most days.
May 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 weeks up and it is still all good
by: Mandy

Hi, I'm back. Well the 3 weeks was up today and I nervously went along for my first physio appt. I can now say goodbye and good riddance to the polysling. I have almost full range of movement and still no pain. The muscles are quite weak so I know I have work to do and the whole shoulder (and elbow) feels a bit stiff but I will take this over my pre op state any day. I'm sorry to hear so many people have had a tough time of this but for those considering having the procedure please be reassured that it also can go well. Very well. I have slept through the night every night for the last 3 weeks which has not been the case for over 18 months pre op and the awful deep pain has gone completely. Off to do another set of reps. Good luck all.
May 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD and Frozen Shoulder
by: Anna

Hey,
I had SAD and bursectomy on my right shoulder back in dec 2009. I had full range of movement before the surgery although some movements were painful. After the surgery my movement was severly restricted and the pain was intolerable. In march 2010 the surgeon told me i had developed a post op frozen shoulder. Two days later he performed a MUA with arthroscopy. Its now been 9weeks since the MUA the pain has decreased slightly although night times are still uncomfortable. My movement is still markedly restricted. I was told that the surgeon achieved 160 degrees of movement on the table. The most movement i have achieved on my own with the physio is 120 degrees however this has now decreased to 90degrees. I am so disappointed as i have worked really hard at my exercises and I feel its all for nothing. i went to a follow up appointment and was told its too early to tell if MUA has been successful and to come back in july. I found this unacceptable and so did my GP,physio and hydrotherapist. I am in the process of bringing july's appointment forward. What will happen if the MUA has been unsuccessful. I am so disappointed with the outcome i am reluctant to have it done a second time..... does anyone have the same problem or know what other options would be available to me.
Your help is greatly appreciated
May 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Anna and Frozen Shoulder
by: Anonymous Dee

Hi Anna
Sorry you're having such a bad time after surgery. I also had frozen shoulder after surgery and had a manipulation (Horrible!) with some improvement after but not enough. I was then referred for a procedure called hydrodilatation where the joint is expanded with fluid, this is performed in Radiology under Xray. More gains were made after this procedure and it is gentler than manipulation but! as I found out later!!! Another Surgeon explained to me that it is much gentler on the patient if this is performed at the same time as the MUA. Ask your surgeon!!! Hope this helps and good luck.
Cheers Dee
May 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD and Frozen Shoulder
by: Anonymous

Hi Dee,
Thanks so much for your reply!
I had joint distention during the MUA which sounds like the hydrodilatation procedure you spoke about in your post. I am from the UK so its maybe called something else....
Other than my shoulder problem i'm having trouble with the so called dr's I see.
whenever i see the surgeon that did my two operations i seem to move forward when i see someone else its like taking a step backwards. Its like they can't make a decision. Have already written a complaint to the NHS and its looking like they maybe hereing from me again!!!
May 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD and Frozen Shoulder
by: Anna

OK here we go.......... As mentioned in a previous post my GP had sent a letter to my consultant asking for my follow up appointment in July to be brought forward. I have found out that the consultant does not think its necessary to see me before then as there is nothing he can do for me and that i need to give my shoulder time to heelIts been 10 weeks!!! surly its healed by now!!! i don't as yet know what my GP thinks about this but i am constantly banging my head against a brick wall. I had a complication 2 days after the MUA in that the top of my lung collasped which mean't the physio i recieved for 2 weeks after the op was not as aggressive as it should haver been and i feel that this has had an impact............ i have worked so hard with the exercises and now feel like giving up to be honest as their clearly not helping. I have no external rtotation at all which is exactly the same as before i had the mua and the consultant still doesn't want to see me.......thats if he even knows about the complication..... i now have to suffer for another 6 weeks and i am not a happy camper.......... other than complaining which i have done before and am reluctant to again due to being a nusience can anybody suggest anything else i could do....... sorry for rabbiting on but OMG i am so fed up!!!
Jun 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Back after MUA 5/25
by: Cindy

Well I felt like a human again same day of MUA. Gained a lot or range of motion back still working on internal and external but better. Surgeon still can't figure out how happened but as amazed at the amount of scar tissue. First night I had slept through the night in many months. Bad news within 24hrs pain at night was back along with numbness and tingling down arm and pain down bicep muscle. Still going to PT 2x/wk for 6 wks. I have follow up appt with surgeon 6/11 and have lots of questions hoping not to be ignored. I hope someday to sleep in my bed again and sound through the night again. I am working hard doing range of motion and strengthening as muscles are extremely weak. PT could care less if I sleep through the night or where. Guess they are tired of me after going there for 3 months in a row now and I am of them as well.
Jun 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sub Acrominal decompression
by: hilary

Hi all

I had sub acrominal decompression of the shoulder done over 2 years ago I worked as a keyboard operator for 24 years. Since the op I have been pensioned off, I never got the strength back into the shoulder, pain is constant especially at night. I am still at the physio every week. what has happened here a simple op and I have been medically retired and my shoulder is worst than it was before the op. I had an MRI after the op which showed up large tears, and now have chronic inflammation can anyone advise?
Jun 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sub Acrominal decompression
by: hilary

Hi all

I had sub acrominal decompression of the shoulder done over 2 years ago I worked as a keyboard operator for 24 years. Since the op I have been pensioned off, I never got the strength back into the shoulder, pain is constant especially at night. I am still at the physio every week. what has happened here a simple op and I have been medically retired and my shoulder is worst than it was before the op. I had an MRI after the op which showed up large tears, and now have chronic inflammation can anyone advise?
Jun 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sub Acrominal decompression
by: hilary

Hi all

I had sub acrominal decompression of the shoulder done over 2 years ago I worked as a keyboard operator for 24 years. Since the op I have been pensioned off, I never got the strength back into the shoulder, pain is constant especially at night. I am still at the physio every week. what has happened here a simple op and I have been medically retired and my shoulder is worst than it was before the op. I had an MRI after the op which showed up large tears, and now have chronic inflammation can anyone advise?
Jun 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sub Acrominal decompression
by: hilary

Hi all

I had sub acrominal decompression of the shoulder done over 2 years ago I worked as a keyboard operator for 24 years. Since the op I have been pensioned off, I never got the strength back into the shoulder, pain is constant especially at night. I am still at the physio every week. what has happened here a simple op and I have been medically retired and my shoulder is worst than it was before the op. I had an MRI after the op which showed up large tears, and now have chronic inflammation can anyone advise?
Jun 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		8 weeks post SAD
by: Mandy

I am now 8 wks post open decompression and I guess I am lucky as it has been a total success. I have gone from being in pain almost all of the time, waking several times in the night and having significant loss of movement to NO pain (and haven't since about week 2) full range of movement in all directions and have vastly already improved the strength in that arm. My shoulder now looks a much more normal shape and I feel human again. I hope you all begin to share my luck.
Jul 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		7 1/2 weeks post op
by: Anonymous

Want to offer a happy result. I suffered for 3.5 years before finally getting to where I couldn't stand the shoulder pain any longer. Had arthroscopic SAD May 30th (bones spur, chronic bursitis) and am utterly thrilled with the results. Dr. told me not to restrict my movement in any way and handed me a home exercise book and warned me that I was ripe for frozen shoulder if I didn't keep it moving.

Was extremely diligent about the exercises due to pure fear of frozen shoulder and did not restrict my movements in any way despite the desire to baby it. Two weeks post op I had full range of motion and could sleep without pain. Currently no pain in the joint (I could weep with relief when I wake at 2am and realize I DON'T hurt!)but still have some biceps/tendon pain - probably because I'm finally lifting light weights for the first time in years. So very glad I had this done!
Jul 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My understandings
by: Rebecca

I am seeing a shoulder specialist (she is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulders). I have been doing physical therapy for 6 months now. It has improved a little.

I have subacromial decompression surgery scheduled in a few weeks and after reading this, I am freaking out!!! haha, not really, but now I have some concerns.

What I was told by my doctor is that if the cortisone shot helped you feel better (at least for a while), then the surgery would have the same results -- only permanently. It appears that some people here said that the cortisone shot had NOT helped them. I was told that then this surgery wouldn't help, either. So maybe that is what your issue is.

I also was told that since I have been doing strengthening exercises (and now have amazing strength), and stretching, that my recovery after surgery would be amazing. I am physically fit, (albeit a bit lazy sometimes), and healthy. I sure hope that I don't experience any of the problems listed here, but I do have some questions...

For those of you who experienced BAD reactions, worse pain, etc. Can you share with me how healthy you are? Do you have any other health issues like diabetes or chronic fatigue syndrome, etc? Are you overweight? Do you do any other treatments like acupuncture, rolfing, chiropractic?

The main reason I am looking to get this done is because the pain is affecting my quality of life. Along with bursitis and impingement syndrome in both shoulders, I have a bone spur in one shoulder, I have neural tension (tightness of the nerves in the arms and shoulders), sub-scapularus (sp?) dyskinesis (the muscles around my shoulder blade are weak, which causes other muscles to compensate, putting pressure on my rotator cuff, etc. These issues aren't from a specific injury that I can think of, maybe just years of chronic overuse and abuse. I also have a lot of thoracic issues, including thoracic outlet syndrome.

But... I am healthy, active and I also seek out alternative treatments like rolfing, SOT chiropractic (who performs active release therapy), acupuncture, etc. I do my physical therapy consistently, and eat right.

I just don't want to make the pain worse.
Aug 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Subcromial decompression right shoulder
by: Karyn

Hello Everybody,
I had my surgery just 10 weeks ago 6/4/10. Did great
first month of PT, going into the second month had a set back, my range of motion is 148*, I have pain all the time, still taking an anti-inflammatory pill, still have some swelling in the arm pit area. Elbow hurts, not able to get my arm behind my back.
Surgeon says if we can't break up the scar tissue in 2 weeks, going back under for manipulation, which he tells me he can't guarantee that he won't tear the rotator cuff, or accidently break bones. Very dissapointed in this, and totally dreading that
I'm now having the same pain in the other shoulder. Was walking 4 1/2 miles a day, eat pretty healthy, I am diabetic. Starting with a new PT trainer in a couple of days, hopefully he can fix the problem, I would LOVE to wake up with no PAIN.
Aug 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Just had my surgery yesterday
by: Rebecca

I had my SAD/DCE and bicep tenodesis yesterday and I am so excited that soon I will be pain free. The surgeon confirmed that my bursa was extremely inflamed, despite all the physical therapy I had been doing, etc.

I am still a little groggy (the pain meds) but I didn't get a shoulder block. I am glad I didn't. I feel great so far (only 19 hours after the surgery. I can type, and even sleep in my own bed.

In 4 weeks I will do an SAD on the other shoulder. The worst part was being groggy. and not being able to leave the hospital right way.
Aug 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rebecca
by: Anonymous

Good luck with your shoulder(s). I just wanted to tell you to take your time before having the second one done. I was so anxious to get out of pain that I did mine 6 weeks a part. I sort of wish I would have waited a little bit between having them both done. It is one thing to have difficulty in completing task with one sore shoulder recoverying but completely different when it is two.

Good Luck
Donna D.
Aug 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For Donna
by: Anonymous

Hi Donna,

Thanks for your words of wisdom. The thing that I am battling against is my insurance company. I have a very high deductible, and starting Oct 1st, it re-boots. So anything between now and Sept 30th, is paid for 100%. That is what my eagerness is, to get them done. It has been 2 days since my surgery, and I have been doing the exercises (pendulum) and icing. I think the SAD part of the surgery is doing extremely well. The part that will take time is the bicep tenodesis that I had done. They took out about 7-8cm of bicep tendon and then hooked my muscle back to the bone lower. That is what will take a while to heal. I was out at a picnic today, and haven't been having issues with things that I can't do... I do seem to be on computers a lot, and that is fine as long as I am sitting correctly.

I just want it all done with. I can't wait!

Rebecca
Aug 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rebecca
by: Donna

I can understand that...I have a high deductible myself. ;-(( Some of the soreness comes into play once you seriously start PT. While I didn't have the tendon issue that you had, I still had a fair amount of pain for quite some time. I can only imagine the tendon repair will add to that as well.

I could have waited longer between mine, but I just wanted it to be over with. I think it might have helped though to wait just a little between them.

I wish you all the best. Don't over do it!! I know my surgeon had said don't going to a lot of things thinking that you feel fine because you can end up with a setback. He said I could end up creating additional imflamation and then have to wait until that calms down to do more PT. He said patience is a virtue with this surgery. ;-)

Best of luck and I hope each day is a little better then the last.

Donna
Aug 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rebecca
by: Donna

I can understand that...I have a high deductible myself. ;-(( Some of the soreness comes into play once you seriously start PT. While I didn't have the tendon issue that you had, I still had a fair amount of pain for quite some time. I can only imagine the tendon repair will add to that as well.

I could have waited longer between mine, but I just wanted it to be over with. I think it might have helped though to wait just a little between them.

I wish you all the best. Don't over do it!! I know my surgeon had said don't going to a lot of things thinking that you feel fine because you can end up with a setback. He said I could end up creating additional imflamation and then have to wait until that calms down to do more PT. He said patience is a virtue with this surgery. ;-)

Best of luck and I hope each day is a little better then the last.

Donna
Sep 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstar 		had this and Glad I did
by: linda

I am so sorry to hear of all these problems. I feel so blessed I had this surgery 5 years ago. It was the best thing I ever did I put it off for several years enduring pain instead.

I had a great ( top in our area or I would have chickened out) Surgeon and PT!

I iced and followed all instructions!

About a month out I also had a "pop" and much pain my PT told me it was probably scar tissue that broke lose. Shortly thereafter my shoulder started feeling better. One of the biggest faults I had was thinking it would be better in weeks it was my PT who actually told me to plan on a year and to keep doing the the exercises even after physio. I did them religiously through the pain no matter how much it hurt and since I had lost a large amount of ROm due to the FS I really pushed myself.

I still have to do exercises sometimes to keep that shoulder strong something my PT told me may be necessary. I had a frozen shoulder with calcium deposits as well as the decompression surgery. I do notice things like too much time on the computer/i-phone will still aggravate my shoulder.

I don't keep up on the strengthening like I should so I do notice it gets weak periodically.
Sep 11, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		4 weeks after surgery
by: Rebecca

I am dong well... when I went in for my checkup 3 weeks after surgery (19 days) she (my surgeon) said I looked as if I was 6 weeks post op, which made me feel good.

I am out of my sling, this is the 3rd day now, and I feel great. I am still tender, and my arm is weak. I am doing the AAROM (active assisted range of motion) stretches and some isometric strengthening, and this week my physical therapist gave me two other strengthening exercises for 2 of the 4 rotator cuff muscles. Those are killers, but even after 3 days of doing it, I can tell a difference.

I still ice my shoulder 2x a day if not more.

I was not allowed to take any anti-inflammatories (including aspirin) for the first 30 days, which really sucked -- basically the only non-narcotic they said I could take was Tylenol... that doesn't do anything. The first week after surgery was bad (pain wise). I was given percocet, oxycontin, vistaril, and told to take 1 or 2 oxycontin every 12 hours, and 1-2 percocet every 4-6 hours. Then, to take 1-2 vistaril every 6 hours. My boyfriend of course was stuffing me with these pills because the doctor told him to. HAH. They made me so sick. Once I got off the narcotics (after day 4) I started feeling better, overall, but the pain in my shoulder was bad. And tylenol didn't cut it.

But my surgeon told me that she was very positive the surgery would take my chronic pain away, and that the first month after surgery I would hurt MORE as I was healing. Only the first week I hurt more.

There were also a few times when I thought I screwed up my bicep tenodesis... by lifting my dog (how stupid can I get, he is 90 lbs!) or just thrasing around in my sleep. But all is good.

I originally was going to have the SAD/DCE done to my right shoulder 2 days ago... but we postponed it for one week. This past week I have seen a remarkable difference, and every day it gets better.

Some of the things I did to help with the healing process is take arnica, along with using Soothanol X2 on my shoulder. I also took ginger capsules. Another thing I did to help break down the scar tissue, which I think is actually quite cool, someone mentioned a "popping" associated with scar tissue... This past week, I had been religiously rubbing castor oil onto my shoulder 2x a day, with firm pressure. Where the 4 incisions were, they had developed scar tissue. The ortho told me to use Vitamin E, but I read that castor oil is way better.... so I used castor oil. And this past week, within a day of each other, all my scar tissue "popped" and dissolved. Now my incisions are flat, you can barely see them... (except the bicep tenodesis one, that is about an inch and a half long and closer to my armpit). I will keep using the castor oil to reduce the scars so you won't be able to see them.
Oct 01, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		questions
by: 26 yr old

Hello,
I had an athroscopic surgery in aug of 09 to repair a laberal tear, clean up tendonitis/brusitis, & to remove a bone spur. I have had issues since 2007. I was in a car accident I was pregnant at the time & it masked alot of the symptoms I was having with my shoulder. I actually had more pain in my neck & mid back (about bra area) and shoulder. although it has been a year since I have had the surgery I feel no different than prior to having it done. I am on my third opinion & am schedualed to have an open distal clavical resection. after reading some posts I am concerned about having more problems than what I am living with now. I do have full range of motion. However pain with daily tasks(anything with arms out like driving ect.), and waking during sleep. I have chronic head aches as well. Has anyone else had these issues resolved with surgery?
Thanks ,
26 yr old
Oct 01, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Open distal clavicle
by: Rebecca

I, too, had most of my pain in between my shoulder blades... (bra area) There are 4 rotator cuff muscles, and I believe two of them can cause pain in that area (supraspinadus and the subscapularis -- sorry if my spelling is off).

That is why for years I have been going to a chiropractor for my "back" -- not even thinking it could be my shoulders.

I am 2 weeks post op on a subacromial decompression, and distal clavicle excision on my right shoulder, and the difference is AMAZING. I am still tender at the top, where they removed the end of the clavicle. But within 2 days I had my range of motion back, something I haven't had in years. I can almost sleep on it again.

I am 7 weeks post op on my left shoulder -- same thing but also a bicep tenodesis (see earlier posts of mine). Now THAT is still hurting. I am getting better though. Slowly.

I am a firm believer that you should see a doctor who specializes in that area to be operated on... if you don't feel confident in your surgeon, then see another one.

Once again, it was drilled into me at my post op appointment that if you did NOT get results with a cortisone shot - even temporarily - the subacromial decompression surgery IS NOT GOING TO HELP.

Good luck.
Rebecca
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		One week post op- no use of arm
by: kelly

my surgery was one week ago. It was done arthoscopic. Bone Spurs ground down very small rotator so it was all cleaned up. Surgeon told my huband no restrictions do whatever I can tolerate wear sling for comfort, etc. I did have a block pre-op as well. I thoight this was all indicating recovery would be a breeze. My question is shouldn't I be able to raise my arm at least slightly?. I need to use my other arm to pick up my arm with lots of pain. I can move it well from elbow to wrist but not at all away from my body from shoulder. I cannot figure out how to use the muscles at all- it's almost like it's dead..is thid normal? How long are most people off work after this surgery. I am a right handed clerical worker and cannot imagine that i will have any use of this right arm any time soon? Just seeking some advice?
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		One week post op- no use of arm
by: kelly

my surgery was one week ago. It was done arthoscopic. Bone Spurs ground down very small rotator so it was all cleaned up. Surgeon told my huband no restrictions do whatever I can tolerate wear sling for comfort, etc. I did have a block pre-op as well. I thoight this was all indicating recovery would be a breeze. My question is shouldn't I be able to raise my arm at least slightly?. I need to use my other arm to pick up my arm with lots of pain. I can move it well from elbow to wrist but not at all away from my body from shoulder. I cannot figure out how to use the muscles at all- it's almost like it's dead..is thid normal? How long are most people off work after this surgery. I am a right handed clerical worker and cannot imagine that i will have any use of this right arm any time soon? Just seeking some advice?
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		One week post op- no use of arm
by: kelly

my surgery was one week ago. It was done arthoscopic. Bone Spurs ground down very small rotator so it was all cleaned up. Surgeon told my huband no restrictions do whatever I can tolerate wear sling for comfort, etc. I did have a block pre-op as well. I thoight this was all indicating recovery would be a breeze. My question is shouldn't I be able to raise my arm at least slightly?. I need to use my other arm to pick up my arm with lots of pain. I can move it well from elbow to wrist but not at all away from my body from shoulder. I cannot figure out how to use the muscles at all- it's almost like it's dead..is thid normal? How long are most people off work after this surgery. I am a right handed clerical worker and cannot imagine that i will have any use of this right arm any time soon? Just seeking some advice?
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For Kelly
by: Rebecca

Kelly -- you had a rotator cuff tear, or a subacromial decompression?

My decompression surgery on my right shoulder was just that: decompression, distal clavicle excision, and removing bone spurs. I was able to have full range of motion within 2 days, (even more than before the surgery -- I suffered from impingement, too). I wore my sling for 1 day. I am tender at the top of my shoulder where they removed the end of the clavicle, but other than that, it is fine. I did NOT have a block, and don't think I would have recovered so quickly had I done that.

If you can't feel your arm or lift it, something is wrong.

I don't see what the point of having a block is -- just so you don't experience discomfort? Well, most people going into surgery have already felt discomfort for a LONG time... another day of it isn't a big deal...

I am almost 8 weeks post op on my left shoulder surgery, and almost 3 weeks post op on my right shoulder. The right shoulder is just sore and tender, but no pain, really. That is amazing. No limitations and full range of motion. The left shoulder is still extremely sore, but it is to be expected... I am now doing some horribly hard physical therapy strengthening, so every morning afterward, I am super sore... hard for me to sleep, but not as bad as before the surgeries. And since I had a bicep tenodesis, it is going to take another month or so...

I suggest you go to the doctor. What you are describing doesn't sound normal.
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		thanks Rebecca
by: kelly

Thank you for your comments. I am going back to doctor. I had a frayed tendons from the bone spurs but not a complete rotator tear he said it was not big enough to put a stitch in. He told my husband that it was clear that I had been using my shoulder wrong for a long time. The pain block was so he could watch the movement while moving my arm up and down to see where it was getting hung up. Perhaps my lack of ability to move from my shoulder is a result of that? I will post after I see the doctor again. I am glad to hear how well you are doing and your recovery continues this way. thanks, kelly
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		thanks Rebecca
by: kelly

Thank you for your comments. I am going back to doctor. I had a frayed tendons from the bone spurs but not a complete rotator tear he said it was not big enough to put a stitch in. He told my husband that it was clear that I had been using my shoulder wrong for a long time. The pain block was so he could watch the movement while moving my arm up and down to see where it was getting hung up. Perhaps my lack of ability to move from my shoulder is a result of that? I will post after I see the doctor again. I am glad to hear how well you are doing and your recovery continues this way. thanks, kelly
Oct 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		S.A.D
by: maisie

I too have been reading this site with interest
I am due to go for surgery for S.A.D soon plus or minus a rotator cuff tear repair. I am not sure what my biggest fear is but think it’s the possibility of less movement less strength and less use / basicaly being worst off than I am.
Did everyone else think this too. ?? Or did you go into surgery very positive & well informed of risks / benefits and side effects.

I have been described 2 types of S.A.D surgery, both arthroscopic but x1 that uses arm traction [with 3 or 4 surgical sites] and x1 that uses a single small site through which surgery is performed.

I have elected surgery for the 'long term' health benefits, by the latter version [ still debating a nerve block ] . Iv'e had issues with my shoulder for 18 months. Have had x3 joint injections giving some relief , now seem to have varied movement some days with no pain & full range to some pain and tightness preventing range. Also popping and intense pain and burning but after a lot of hopping around that settled . Perhaps I have been lucky in that respect and perhaps I am asking too much for things to be be 'back to normal. I just feel that at mid age there are many more years for aches and pains to come so hoping this works will give a few years reprieve.





Oct 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		worse off
by: Tom

I had shoulder surgery april 20th of 2010 for a supraspinatus tendon detached. The doctor removed half of coracoacromial ligament, he removed a subacromial spur, he reattached the tendon to the greater tuberosity using a peek screw and a Mitek Versalok. I had a Stryker pain pump installed in my neck with a brachial plexus block. I am now almost 6 months out of surgery and my pain level is excruciating that runs down my arm to the hand and into the neck seemingly to the needle insertion sight. I lost most of the use of my thumb and my first finger. My hand and arm are atrophying and weak. My range of motion is worse than before the surgery and the pain is intolerable at times. I was only given 5mg hydrocodone for pain and was returned to work ( GET THIS ) 2 days after surgery. Yes it was workman's Comp! I am still being diagnosed to see what is wrong. The doctor wants an MRI of the cervical spine now. I have that scheduled for the 18th of oct. I feel the needle for the brachial plexus block was misguided and nerve damage happened. I also had an EMG/ECV which revealed nerves not firing correctly. This has been a nightmare and I wish I never had the surgery. I could at least use my arm before and now I can barely lift a cup of coffee.
Oct 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Don't give up!
by: Sharon

I was looking back on my previous posts and am happy to say that I am much improved! Further PT had been denied (I had about 3 months worth before I was forced to discontinue with it) and I was stuck with a frozen shoulder. But my therapist gave me a home program which I stuck with for a long time. My pain level is now around 1 or 2 the majority of the time; and I have gotten back about 80% of my movement. I am thrilled as I suffered for over two years with incredible pain and limited movement. NOW that I look back, I am very glad I went ahead with the surgery. My advice... research your surgeon and get a GOOD one! Then, work your PT program and give it a full year.

Good luck everyone!

Sharon
Oct 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		AC joint resection, now biceps tendonitis??
by: Katie

I was injured at work (paramedic) on March 25th. Had an AC joint resection, decompression and bursa removal on May 25th. I went back to work July 19th. I'm kind of a tough one. At any rate, I have had pain in the front of my shoulder ever since surgery. I can't sleep at night. I am a stomach sleeper, and can't put my arm above my head. I have to sleep with it out at a 90 degree angle to my body if I'm on my stomach. If I lie on my back, I have to put a pillow under my arm and shoulder to prevent pain. I went to the doctor this morning for another follow up appointment post surgery, and was told I now have biceps tendonitis. Does anybody know if this is a side effect/complication from the AC joint surgery? I got a cortisone shot today and am due back to the ortho in 6 weeks. I'm 32 years old and rather physically active, and this is putting a damper on my activities and life. Any information that would be of assistance would be great. Here's my email address also, in case I don't get back to check this site too quickly. mavournine@aol.com

Thanks,

Katie
Oct 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Katie and all the others
by: Dee

Hi everyone
I haven't been on this site since may! Can't believe how many of us there are having continuing problems. As for the question on Biceps tendonitis after SAD surgery YES! Its still common to have tendonitis. The purpose of the Sub Acromial decomp is to alleviate the pinching of the tendons against the acromium/clavical... all of us that have done very heavy or repetetive work or exercise especially forward and overhead, have usually damaged any one of the main tendons. Also depending on the type of slope in the clavical (there are 4 types!.straight, 2 curved, 3 very curved or hooked and 4 which is rare and very severe where the clavical is comressed against the 1st rib causing severe nerve and tendon damage) Unfortunately if you have had lots of cortisone injections this can weaken the tendons and they often tear. Biceps tenodesis is usually performed at the same time as the SAD opp but as I said it can occur any time there after.
As for my update! .... well I am off to see the surgeon again soon and not looking forward to it at all!!!! Last time I saw him I was totally humilliated by his manner of speaking to me. He felt that I have continued pain mainly (in my head)... I have stayed away since but have been attending pain management, so I wear pain relief patches which dispense 20micrograms of opiate per hr. My fear with this was that it could mask the symptoms of something bad!!!! And it has! I recently requested a repeat MRI which showed
A..that the Bio tenodesis screw is still insitu (which supposedly had absorbed by now!
B..The by product of the disolution inflames the surrounding tissues
C...My other shoulder which is a problem now after using my left hand for the last three years is now just as bad as the right, with a full thickness tear to the supraspinatus tendon etc etc Yep My head!!!!
Unfortunately we don't allways get the support we need from the Medical professionals...we support each other by writing here. Good luck everyone with PT or surgery and I will keep you posted!!!!
Cheers Dee
Oct 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So far, so good...
by: Anonymous

Had rotator cuff surgery end of 2009 then additional surgery in June to remove remaining scar tissue that was prohibiting my full recovery. After 5 months of PT total, I can now say that my shoulder is 'near' normal. Still some stiffness at night while sleeping and some during the day. ROM is getting closer to 100%. No lingering pains otherwise. Began working out in March to try and strengthen upper body and I think it helped a lot. I can say this, Don't wait if you develop pain! If it continues go have it checked out. I waited 6 months with lingering pain before I sought treatment which probably cost me a lot of money and 2 eventual surgeries.

Also, Don't ever give up! Keep pushing, keep trying, keep seeking a solution. There is one out there!
Oct 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So far, so good...
by: Lori

Had rotator cuff surgery end of 2009 then additional surgery in June to remove remaining scar tissue that was prohibiting my full recovery. After 5 months of PT total, I can now say that my shoulder is 'near' normal. Still some stiffness at night while sleeping and some during the day. ROM is getting closer to 100%. No lingering pains otherwise. Began working out in March to try and strengthen upper body and I think it helped a lot. I can say this, Don't wait if you develop pain! If it continues go have it checked out. I waited 6 months with lingering pain before I sought treatment which probably cost me a lot of money and 2 eventual surgeries.

Also, Don't ever give up! Keep pushing, keep trying, keep seeking a solution. There is one out there!
Oct 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So far, so good...
by: Lori

Had rotator cuff surgery end of 2009 then additional surgery in June to remove remaining scar tissue that was prohibiting my full recovery. After 5 months of PT total, I can now say that my shoulder is 'near' normal. Still some stiffness at night while sleeping and some during the day. ROM is getting closer to 100%. No lingering pains otherwise. Began working out in March to try and strengthen upper body and I think it helped a lot. I can say this, Don't wait if you develop pain! If it continues go have it checked out. I waited 6 months with lingering pain before I sought treatment which probably cost me a lot of money and 2 eventual surgeries.

Also, Don't ever give up! Keep pushing, keep trying, keep seeking a solution. There is one out there!
Oct 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		shoulder surgery
by: Karyn

Hello Everybody,

So I wrote back in August 2010 after I had my subacromial decompression with clavicle extraction & bone spurs removed. Had alot of problems after about 1 1/2 months of PT. Went to a new PT did great for about 1 month, then got a frozen shoulder.
Just last week went in & had a manipulation done. The only problem that I'm having right now is all range of motion is great except my internal rotation, the exercises I have to do to improve that rotatation hurt like hell. So I'm almost 4 months out since original surgery. Pain is not too bad, I am seeing a chiropractor, having the pain between the shoulder blades & the right side scapula. It's nice going to PT & talking with others that are in the same boat. Hang in there guys!!!!

Nov 29, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain has returned
by: Elaine

Hi, I had my first SAD 4 years ago which temporarily eased the pain but still had totally frozen shoulder. I always had niggling pain in shoulder but it returned in earnest a few months later. My surgeon suggested after 6 months that I might need another OP, I certainly needed the arm manipulated as I still hal no mobility however he kept finding excuses not to repeat the OP. After a year and a half I had had enough and asked my GP to refer me to a specialist. He took one look and I was booked for surgery. He said my shoulder was really tight and that the OP had been difficult, he had had to remove adhesions too although was not able to remove all. The result was still reduced mobility but a lot better than before. The excruciating pain was gone but still that toothache type pain in the shoulder which becomes aggravated any time I use the arm for a length of time and reduced power and strength in arm. At follow up The specialist told me that I would not have this problem again well guess what after 1.5 years its getting worse again. I have put of going to GP because I thought this can't be happening again. At least this web site proves it is not just me!!
Dec 20, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bicep tendonitis after rotator cuff surgery
by: Anonymous

I had rotator cuff surgery in early August and it has been a disastrous recovery. Almost immediately the pain in my bicep tendon was unbearable. I was told repeatedly that it "shouldn't be that sore" by the doctor. 2 1/2 months post op the physio declared it was bicep tendonitis, but by then I had developed a frozen shoulder. Any rehab I did for the shoulder flared the incredibly painful tendonitis - hence the frozen shoulder. I'm still struggling with the problems in my shoulder, very disappointed with the doctors, but hopeful that my shoulder will improve. I am getting constant treatment by my chiropractor, a combination of manipulation, laser and graston to break down the scar tissue around the incision scar, and am doing exercises and yoga every day with great care not to flare the bicep tendon. My physiotherapist and my chiropractor are helping my recovery, not so the doctors - they are playing the blame game. I think their egos are too big to even consider that their surgery was not a success. I'm not impressed.
Dec 20, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		my blog on my progress
by: Anonymous

http://rhauptman.posterous.com/?tag=biceptenodesis&page=2

Here is the blog that I wrote about my surgery. I had a subacromial decompression (SAD), bicep tenodesis, and distal clavicle excision on August 12th 2010, on my left shoulder, and then 5 weeks later, September 16th, I had the SAD and distal clavicle excision on my right shoulder. I know I had them way too close together, but it was insurance purposes.

I am doing so much better now, 4 months later.
Dec 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain
by: adam h

i had my shoulder done and within two months i started using it as normal> it felt ok then i went to the gym and started weightlifting for two weeks after this time my shoulder really hurt and is still playing up and is still hurting 6mnths after the op is there anything in there i could have damaged , because the operation is to remove problem areas . so if there not there, what is hurting. anybody have any ideas thanks
Jan 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Post Op Scarring
by: CyndiJ

I had surgery in April. All went well and I have nearly 100% ROM. Recently though I have developed similar pain to before surgery. Feels like the nerve in the shoulder is being pinched again which is radiating into my wrist. After reading many posts, it sounds like it could be scar tissue?? Is more surgery needed or can PT resolve it. Kinda feels like a hot ice pick is being stuck in my shoulder and it's waking me up at night. Pain isn't all the time, but is getting more often.
Jan 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstar 		re CyndiJ,'s Log
by: Maisie

Not sure what surgery you had . Was it a arthroscopic or open SAD ?? and was the distal aspect of the clavicle removed ??
Apparently the Carpal Tunnel can become inflammed and can be reason for pain at your wrist and can give nerve pain up arm right to the shoulder - therefore mistaking the flow of the nerve pain. Carpal Tunnel inflammation can occur secondary to the above surgeries / i was advised by my consultant.
Check this out in addition to your recent feelings of impingement
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 months on and unhappy
by: Anonymous

I just found this page today and I wish I'd found it months ago. I had been having problems with my right shoulder for 3 years and finally had decompression by keyhole surgery in October. Currently having physio which isn't really helping much. After my last physio my left shoulder was painful too. (It has been bad for a few months but this made it worse). She massaged my neck as she seemed to think the cause of pain was coming from there. Now I have just been referred back to my consultant to go through the same procedure with my left shoulder. I am not sure what to do but the pain keeps me awake at night and the painkillers just make me feel bad. I cannot believe how many people say they have this done on one side then go on to have the other side done. My right shoulder still hurts from the original op though. :-(
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 months on and unhappy
by: Anonymous

I just found this page today and I wish I'd found it months ago. I had been having problems with my right shoulder for 3 years and finally had decompression by keyhole surgery in October. Currently having physio which isn't really helping much. After my last physio my left shoulder was painful too. (It has been bad for a few months but this made it worse). She massaged my neck as she seemed to think the cause of pain was coming from there. Now I have just been referred back to my consultant to go through the same procedure with my left shoulder. I am not sure what to do but the pain keeps me awake at night and the painkillers just make me feel bad. I cannot believe how many people say they have this done on one side then go on to have the other side done. My right shoulder still hurts from the original op though. :-(
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Would I do it again???
by: Anonymous

I had decompression surgery on my right shoulder, distal clavicle excision, and removing bone spurs also told some arthritis present as well. This was done arthoscopic September 29, 2010. After 11 weeks of therapy I could only raise my arm 90 degrees in front of me and out to the side and a lot of pain. My doctor did not hesitate to go forward with "frozen shoulder" procedure which is called manipulation under sedation. (they put you out and move your arm in all directions to break up adhesions and scar tissue) I had that done on December 15th and it was a great decision. At my therapy last night I can now raise my arm nearly straight up and out at side and up. I still have about 3-4 weeks of therapy left (3 times per week) however, I am glad I did not throw the towel in. I finally feel like a new person. Even the two weeks after the manipulation I thought I may have errored in having it done, but I am happy to say I just needed a little more time and the only real problem area is putting my arm behind my back and that is my therapist's focus for our last few weeks.

I would not hesitate to go through with this on my left in the future, but I would not do it until my right side is healed and pretty much pain free.
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to 3 months and unhappy
by: MAGGIE

I had pain for nearly four months and it was almost overnight where the pain finally subsided. Do you have a frozen shoulder now perhaps? Can you raise your arm completely yet? Mine felt like it was hanging up and pinching and my clavicle pain was almost always present. The worst pain was in my back around my right should blade. I cried some days during therapy, but when I took a Vicodin one hour before therapy it was much more tolerable and if it is really painful afterward I would take one more. I have a hot tub and I think that helped greatly. I responded well to heat too. My therapist was telling me she did not think my shoulder was frozen, the doctor took a more aggressive approach and said if he manipulates it under sedation then it was like getting 4 weeks of therapy in an 8 minute procedure - he was right. It worked well and I am happy now. Keep pushing through therapy and use a little pain medicine if you can.
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		thanks for comments
by: Anonymous

I guess I just have to go along with whats happening for now and hope it gets better. It's just so frustrating and I can't stand the pain !!!Since physio earlier today it's worse than ever. This side was fine before I had the other one done. One thing I guess is that I can tell the side thats been operated on isn't as bad as the side that hasn't had the op yet.
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		crunching / clicking
by: Anonymous

Sorry I forgot to say that since the op when I move my arm certain ways it makes a cunching and a clicking sound, is this normal?
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		subacromial decompression
by: Karyn

I found this site about a month after I had my right shoulder surgery as well. Subacromial decompression with clavicle extraction in June 2010, started PT the very next day went 3 times a week till August when I also got a "frozen shoulder", I'm also diabetic so I heal slower then most. The surgeon decided to have me go back in for a manipulation as well, before manipulation I could lift my arm straight up about 3/4 of the way, 1/2 way to the side, I had the manipulation done in October 2010, was in PT the same day of the manipulation & going 3 times a week, I'm down to going to PT 1 time a week, my ROM is at 98%, internal rotation is the last step, I can get my arm behind my back to the top of my waistband. It's been a long haul, will have to have the left shoulder done as well, but waiting till the right is at 100%, hang in there, it will get better.
Jan 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		4 WKS ON
by: claire

i had a sad 4 wks ago although i have more movement in my arm the pain i am experiencing is unbearable, more on a night never had more than an hrs sleep since i had it done, has anyone else experienced this problem after having sad as i,m at my wits ends and the doctors think i,m mentaly insane when i speak to them
Jan 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Saw the ortho doc today
by: CyndiJ

After about 4 weeks of different kinds of pain: from shoulder, elbow down to the wrist I saw the doctor today. He says it's tendonitis and gave me a cortisone shot. I'm wondering why it is in the surgery shoulder? I'm right handed not left and the left is the surgery side. What did I do to irritate it. All fine since the April surgery. I guess it's good that he doesn't suspect scar tissue or other complications. I suppose we will see.
Jan 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		surgery didnt work ?
by: Erin B

Had my shoulder decompression surgery in June , all was going fine until late July when i started strengthening exercises with my Physio , shoulder has been painful ever since and Im now back to the pain I felt prior to surgery, not getting much sleep without the aid of anti-inflammatories. Also getting pain around my AC joint , but cant find a reason for this - xray shows no sign of arthritis although I have signs of crepitus (clicking & crunching) in the joint. Im going back to specialist tommorow hoping he will send me for another MRI , Im hoping that shows something because otherwise he wants to go down the track of killing of all the nerve endings which could be sending the wrong pain signals to my brain , its been 2 years now since my original injury and its so frustrating , has anybody had to have the surgery a second time?
Jan 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Erin B
by: Anonymous

Good Luck, hope you get on ok, let us know how you get on at your appointment. That is exactly how I am 3 months after my operation. Waiting to see my consultant in 6 weeks time.
Feb 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain after 5 months
by: bellagatti

I had SAD+distal clavicle resection Aug. 24, 2010. I also had a frozen shoulder pre-op. I had PT 3x's/week until Jan.1 Now I go 2x's/week. I can not raise my arm behind my back, burning shoulder pain, and endurance issues with raising my arm up for long period of time. I have not been working. I had one steroid injection post-op in Oct. Will the range of motion &/or pain ever get better??
Feb 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		for Belagati
by: Rebecca

Did you have a cortisone shot BEFORE your surgery, and did it work? I was told by my ortho that too many doctors do SADs and distal clavicle re-sections even when cortisone shots don't work. As a result, the results of the surgery are dismal. She said if the cortisone shot took away the pain, then the surgery would work fabulously. It sounds like that isn't your case?

Also, doing PT 3x per week is probably not going to cut it. As long as nothing is torn (like a torn rotator cuff), you should be doing stretches and strengthening morning and night, EVERY DAY.

That is where I made my mistake. I was healing super quickly. I had one shoulder SAD done on August 12th last year, and also a bicep tenodesis. 5 weeks later in Sept, 16th, I had the other shoulder done, with just the SAD and DCE. I started out doing physical therapy EVERY DAY, morning and night. And I was recovering quickly. Then time wore on and I was too busy, so it then became once a day, and then 4-5 times a week, and then 2x/week. Then, I went to Panama for 2 weeks and didn't do anything at all. I sure feel it now. I am starting to have trouble sleeping again. So I started back up a regiment of physical therapy at least once a day. And throughout the day do stretches. It is starting to work again.

So my suggestion is no matter how painful the exercises are, DO THEM. I almost passed out a couple times. But thankfully that only lasted a few days, and then it became easier. I now have almost full range of motion, and I am getting my strength back in my left arm. I am doing arm curls of 9 lbs (I know that doesn't sound like a lot, but it is a start for me) and tricep extensions every 2 days, and then the sleeper stretch (that is the important one!) Besides the rotator cuff strengthening exercises and tons of stretches and stabilizing exercises. If I did them all at one time I would be doing it for 2 hours! So I break it up during the day.
Feb 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		bicep
by: Anonymous

I am a full 4 months post op and was wondering about a small amount of pain beginning in my bicep. I sleep on my side and curl my arm up by my chin and I feel a pulling in my bicep which is starting to become painful. Does anyone think this could be the beginning of bicep tendonitis? Also, when sleeping on my side is it recommended to put a towel role in my armpit. I was never told to do this but I was thinking maybe I should have??? I can actually sleep on my surgical side for short periods for which I am thankful. I have been told be many don't expect to feel normal for one whole year and just like the person above exercise and stretch twice a day or you will never fully recover. I have pain in all the same areas as indicated above. The bicep pain in kind of new.
Feb 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		for Rebecca
by: bellagatti

This was a long standing problem of shoulder pain, arthritis, bursitis, etc. I had PT in the fall of '08 & '09, with cortisione injections both times. They helped for a short time. I did have a RTC tear but at surgery it was not >50%, so not repaired. I do home PT daily..but not 2x's/day. I also used a dynasplint from Sept-end of Dec which really helped with stretching.
What is a "sleeper stretch"? I think my problem is more muscle vs. bone. I am always told they are very "tight". I will soon be 62, so maybe age related also?
Feb 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3rd shoulder surgery
by: Anna

Had sad dec 09, developed post op frozen shoulder and had manipulation march 10, im now having a repeat manipulation with surgical repair... apparently this is rare... having read some posts on this site, now im not so sure. Firsst 2 ops were day surgery but this one i am being admitted - i have no idea why or what im having done apart from the manipulation. Ortho gave me two options... leave the shoulder and experience pain and movement of less than 90 degrees for rest of my life or try
and surgically repair it with no guarantee its gonna work. Im only 30 ... 3rd time lucky?? Pre op on 14th will post if i have any more news- great site!

Feb 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3rd shoulder surgery
by: Anna

Had sad dec 09, developed post op frozen shoulder and had manipulation march 10, im now having a repeat manipulation with surgical repair... apparently this is rare... having read some posts on this site, now im not so sure. Firsst 2 ops were day surgery but this one i am being admitted - i have no idea why or what im having done apart from the manipulation. Ortho gave me two options... leave the shoulder and experience pain and movement of less than 90 degrees for rest of my life or try
and surgically repair it with no guarantee its gonna work. Im only 30 ... 3rd time lucky?? Pre op on 14th will post if i have any more news- great site!

Feb 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bellagatti
by: Rebecca

Ah, in your original post it didn't mention whether the shots helped or not.

Right now the pain I am experiencing is all soft tissue. In the mornings I cannot even raise my arm off the bed (forward and up) but once I get moving around it works normal. I am 35, and have been playing sports most of my life, but haven't been for the past few years because of the pain.

I have just heard it takes time. During the day I feel ok, but at night it is real bad. I can do things now, though, that I haven't been able to do in a long time. It just sucks, because of course I thought I would heal super quick and be 100% within months. But it is a long process. I stretch whenever I can, and that seems to help. When I am making tea in the break room at work, I put my arm against the wall and stretch the nerves in my arms and shoulders. When I am standing at the doorway of a colleague's office, I use the doorway to stretch inward while we talk. I know, seems strange, but everyone at work knows about my surgeries and sometimes they even root for me to keep going, you know.

The sleeper stretch (I call it the death stretch) is this: you lay on your side with your affected arm bent at the elbow. So the area from your shoulder to your elbow (tricep) is flat on the ground and your hand is straight up in the air. With your other hand, grasp your wrist and push your forearm down at a 90 degree angle to the floor. Of course in the beginning I could barely go an inch. But now I can go at least halfway to the floor. If I miss a day or so of doing it, it seems like I have to start all over. This is the #1 important stretch to do to prevent frozen shoulder. The first times I ever tried doing it were so painful that I almost vomited. And then as I progressed, it got to the point where I felt that if I pushed harder on the arm, it would break. But it didn't, and it won't. I sometimes have my fiance push my arm down, since it is awfully hard.

I just googled sleeper stretch, and here is a link with a picture, about halfway down the page: http://summerlandfunctionalfitness.blogspot.com/2010/06/are-you-member-of-tight-shouler-club.html

Good luck.
Feb 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD surgery on 12/22/2010
by: Anonymous

I had a subacromial decompression and acromioplasty on 12/22/2010. There was also a small anterior labral tear that was excised (no biceps involvement and not a bankart lesion). I had been in pain since August. After surgery, I got my range of motion back very quickly (most of it within a week), but I still have some pain now. I have some pain under the anterolateral portal insertion, and also where the undersurface of the acromion was shaved. Cross-body adduction is still painful, as is heavily resisted abduction or extension. Has anyone gotten back into heavy weightlifting after this surgery? Before my pain started, I could bench press 405 pounds, now I can barely do 20 pushups without the operated shoulder acting up.
Feb 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD surgery on 12/22/2010
by: Anonymous

I had a subacromial decompression and acromioplasty on 12/22/2010. There was also a small anterior labral tear that was excised (no biceps involvement and not a bankart lesion). I had been in pain since August. After surgery, I got my range of motion back very quickly (most of it within a week), but I still have some pain now. I have some pain under the anterolateral portal insertion, and also where the undersurface of the acromion was shaved. Cross-body adduction is still painful, as is heavily resisted abduction or extension. Has anyone gotten back into heavy weightlifting after this surgery? Before my pain started, I could bench press 405 pounds, now I can barely do 20 pushups without the operated shoulder acting up.
Feb 07, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to surgery 12/22/10
by: Anonymous

I think it is quite unique that you have recovered so quickly. I am curious if you are able to reach behind your back???. I think your expectations may to be too high too soon. Keep lifting slowly-I was told dont expect complete normal for a year. Good luck and don't over do it.
Feb 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		more info on SAD 12/22/2010
by: Anonymous

I can reach behind my back fine. I also have some popping noises coming from the anterior acromion which was shaved down. I think it is scar tissue, although no matter what motions I put my shoulder through, it won't break up. It hurts a little bit when it cracks. My ortho said no heavy lifting (meaning near max effort) for 8 weeks, but the timeline for recovery was more like 3 months rather than a year. I had a biceps tenodesis in 2008 on the right side (the SAD was on the left) to repair a ruptured long head tendon and that recovery only took 3-4 months, and I was pain-free after 6-8 weeks. This was supposed to be minor in comparison.
Feb 28, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD in JAN
by: Anonymous

I had SAD with distal clavicle resection in Jan following pt and chiropractic care from a shoulder that was injured when my car was struck by a drunk driver. The gave me CPM (passive range of motion) chair and i was using it in the first 2 weeks progressing well till the chair broke at 125 degrees abduction. Now i cant abduct at all. mind you before the chair i was almost at 90 degrees and was ready to call the surgery a success. This has been a major set back and now i am waiting for another arthrogram to see if something torn from the chair... I hope everyone else is having a better experience.
Mar 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain, pain, pain and more pain
by: Joanne

I had 2 cervical ops (anterior and posterior decompression & fusion), then a full decompression of my left shoulder. I had tendonitis, a subacromial tear and inflamation in the bursa in Aug 10. 3 -Ops in 12 months. The 24/7 non-stop, full on pain has absolutely kicked my spirit out of me. I have had non stop PT, specialist deep tissue massage (feels great at the time of treatment but does not last). More MRIs, nerve block injections, anti-imflamatory drugs, morphine - you name it I have had it. Neuro surgeon claims my pain is coming from my shoulder. Shoulder cons says it is coming from my neck?? Now they think it may be due to thoracic oulet syndrome??
My 2 PTs that I see regularly are baffled. I am now going for a 2nd opinion. Having nerve blocks every 2 weeks by pain cons. When will it end :(
Mar 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain, pain, pain and more pain
by: Joanne

I had 2 cervical ops (anterior and posterior decompression & fusion), then a full decompression of my left shoulder. I had tendonitis, a subacromial tear and inflamation in the bursa in Aug 10. 3 -Ops in 12 months. The 24/7 non-stop, full on pain has absolutely kicked my spirit out of me. I have had non stop PT, specialist deep tissue massage (feels great at the time of treatment but does not last). More MRIs, nerve block injections, anti-imflamatory drugs, morphine - you name it I have had it. Neuro surgeon claims my pain is coming from my shoulder. Shoulder cons says it is coming from my neck?? Now they think it may be due to thoracic oulet syndrome??
My 2 PTs that I see regularly are baffled. I am now going for a 2nd opinion. Having nerve blocks every 2 weeks by pain cons. When will it end :(
Mar 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain, pain, pain and more pain
by: Joanne

I had 2 cervical ops (anterior and posterior decompression & fusion), then a full decompression of my left shoulder. I had tendonitis, a subacromial tear and inflamation in the bursa in Aug 10. 3 -Ops in 12 months. The 24/7 non-stop, full on pain has absolutely kicked my spirit out of me. I have had non stop PT, specialist deep tissue massage (feels great at the time of treatment but does not last). More MRIs, nerve block injections, anti-imflamatory drugs, morphine - you name it I have had it. Neuro surgeon claims my pain is coming from my shoulder. Shoulder cons says it is coming from my neck?? Now they think it may be due to thoracic oulet syndrome??
My 2 PTs that I see regularly are baffled. I am now going for a 2nd opinion. Having nerve blocks every 2 weeks by pain cons. When will it end :(
Mar 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain, pain, pain and more pain
by: Joanne

I had 2 cervical ops (anterior and posterior decompression & fusion), then a full decompression of my left shoulder. I had tendonitis, a subacromial tear and inflamation in the bursa in Aug 10. 3 -Ops in 12 months. The 24/7 non-stop, full on pain has absolutely kicked my spirit out of me. I have had non stop PT, specialist deep tissue massage (feels great at the time of treatment but does not last). More MRIs, nerve block injections, anti-imflamatory drugs, morphine - you name it I have had it. Neuro surgeon claims my pain is coming from my shoulder. Shoulder cons says it is coming from my neck?? Now they think it may be due to thoracic oulet syndrome??
My 2 PTs that I see regularly are baffled. I am now going for a 2nd opinion. Having nerve blocks every 2 weeks by pain cons. When will it end :(
Mar 22, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain after 3 months
by: Unbound

I had SAD 3 months ago. I had a bone spur removed, the coracoacromial ligament was completely released (that really freaks me out and I didn't know that was going to be done) and all bursa removed as well as frayed biceps tendon debrided. NO clavicle resection though. Even there was no cartilege left in the AC joint the Doc said it didn't look bad so he left it alone. Had a pain pump in my neck for 3 days post.

For years I worked on old houses and was fairly active. Had a lot of pain this past year and chose surgery.

The jury is still out on this! I have a LOT of pain still. There is full ROM and I am getting stronger but it hurts!! The pain is getting really old and I didn't have a clue it would take this long. At times, it feels like my acromion is broken where the spur was shaved. When I drink from a glass it often feels like severe cramping under the whole collarbone. WTF?!

I get all kinds of pops, clicks and squishy sounds coming out of the shoulder and it feels all clunky and squirrely lke it won't settle in. I often fear that I really screwed up and spent a lot of money just to get mutilated.

Yes I had pain before but I was tight and strong. What have I done?!

Mar 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not so SAD now !!!
by: MAISIE

SAD performed 5 months ago with ligament removal, distal end of clavical removed and repaire totaor cuff.... very panicy of opperation but have to praise surgeon:-
1] I worked hard on on passive exercise post opp
2} used combination Tenes machine [bought over the counter], pain medication,ice packs , bio oil to self massage area [excellent in breaking down scra tissue[ hardly notice the 2 " scar now.
3} worked on PT exercises at home with weekly visits for 8 weeks, continued at home for 3 months [ stopped PT at a time I felt strongest ..not fully recovered but when found their interventions caused more discomfort post therapy.
Yes did all of above with discomfort,or pain in the tendon area at long head, twinges, inablility for 2 months to move arm across chest, pins and needles in thumb. poping crunching and sensation shoulder dropping out of socket. . . BUT NOW...
Full ROM / no tingling in hand , minimal tiredness in shoulder persay if over do it and have enjoyed a mountain walking holiday / with back pack / toboganing @ 3 months post opp, move furniture & decorating and the reminder note from consultant .... remember shoulders take up to a year to restabalise after suregry.
HANG IN THRE GOOD PEOPLES
Apr 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		clunking collar bone
by: live1

had sad 4 weeks ago collar bone cut and spurs removed and a clean up. ive got full rom but the collar bone is clunking when i raise my arm above my head and it feels tight .not much pain can do press ups ok.i need my left fixed but im thinking of not bothering as healing time is generally a year ,so ill be out 2 years from very heavy weightlifting i cant accept that
Apr 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		clunking collar bone
by: live1

had sad 4 weeks ago collar bone cut and spurs removed and a clean up. ive got full rom but the collar bone is clunking when i raise my arm above my head and it feels tight .not much pain can do press ups ok.i need my left fixed but im thinking of not bothering as healing time is generally a year ,so ill be out 2 years from very heavy weightlifting i cant accept that
Apr 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		clunking collar bone
by: live1

had sad 4 weeks ago collar bone cut and spurs removed and a clean up. ive got full rom but the collar bone is clunking when i raise my arm above my head and it feels tight .not much pain can do press ups ok.i need my left fixed but im thinking of not bothering as healing time is generally a year ,so ill be out 2 years from very heavy weightlifting i cant accept that
May 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		6 weeks post-op SAD
by: Tea

Had SAD 6 weeks ago on right shoulder. Was worried at time about having op. Wish I'd listened to myself! Pain initially wasn't too bad. Have been having pt twice weekly but now reduced to 1 weekly. Pain has become much worse 7-8 out of 10 all time. Not sleeping, constantly tired. Feel guilty as have not returned to work as community nurse. Dont feel able as cannot think of anything but pain and tiredness. Spend most of time holding arm for support or crying cos of pain. Am now getting pain in between shoulder blades as well! How long before everyone else went back to work??
May 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Suggestions?
by: Rebecca

Tea -- sorry you are going through so much with your SAD.

I had an SAD on my right shoulder on a Thursday, and by the next day I was out of the sling with full range of motion, and back to work on Monday. On my left shoulder, I had an SAD but also a bicep tenodesis, and I didn't go back to work until the following Tuesday, but I was in a lot of pain, couldn't take anything except either narcotics or tylenol, and taking narcotics, I wouldn't have been able to go to work, and tylenol, well, it doesn't do anything. (I couldn't take NSAIDs because of the screws in my bone from the bicep tenodesis).

The pain in between the shoulder blades might be your subscapularis and then possibly your supraspinadus muscles... those are both part of the rotator cuff. You will need to strengthen them with exercises that your PT or OS have given you. Once they are strengthened you will see it has made a huge difference. You also need to do the sleeper stretch... that is super important. I am 7 months post op, and I have to tell you the sleeper stretch STILL hurts me sometimes...

Good luck.
May 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RE:- Tea & Rebecca's postings
by: maisie

Tea..sorry to hear you problems with pain - have you tried asking for further shoulder injection as this was suggested by my surgeon as a possible option if there was post opp pain to aid reducing inflamation and movement !!
and Rebbecca .... you sound a bit of a miracle oman to have surgery and 2 days later back to work ... wanted to ask - what is the 7 night stretch ????
May 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RE:- Tea & Rebecca's postings
by: maisie

Tea..sorry to hear you problems with pain - have you tried asking for further shoulder injection as this was suggested by my surgeon as a possible option if there was post opp pain to aid reducing inflamation and movement !!
and Rebbecca .... you sound a bit of a miracle oman to have surgery and 2 days later back to work ... wanted to ask - what is the 7 night stretch ????
Jul 28, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Soft moaning yanks
by: Anonymous

Had my surgery 1 week ago all my original pain is gone, replaced by the obvious pain from having the probes inserted into my shoulder, but I’m feeling great and have now stopped taking pain relief, I feel great, better than the previous 3 years. I would recommend this surgery to anyone, either you are all soft moaning ( looking to sue ) yanks, or you have some incompetent surgeons ( looking to sue )over there, and i thought Brits could winge.
Jul 28, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Back again
by: Katie

Hi all. I'm back. My original post was on October 14, 2010. Since May of 2010, I have had a total of three shoulder surgeries. I had the SAD, plus bursectomy, bone spur removal and clavical resection on May 25, 2010. Went back to work and had continued pain. As mentioned in my last post I ended up having biceps tendonitis. The cortisone shot didn't work and my surgeon decided to do a tenotomy. That should have been a relatively quick and easy procedure, having me back to work in approximately a month. (Tenotomy was performed November 23rd.) Well, I never went back to work, still off on workers comp. My ortho didn't know why I continued to have pain. I went to PT religiously, as well as he sent me to a Physical Medicine and Rehab doctor. I would see the PM&R doc approximately every 4 days to 2 weeks and had various types of injections to try and figure out what the problem was. He also did an ultrasound of my shoulder which showed a minor tear in the body of one of my tendons. At any rate, I eventually saw my ortho again after seeing this other doc at the end of May. He had no idea what to do with me short of continuing PT, but I still had limited ROM, as well as pain. I was in tears almost every day because I was so frustrated. My ortho at this point decided he should send me to a different ortho because he just didn't know what to do. Saw the new ortho approximately two weeks after that. She walked in, and short of saying my poor shoulder is so inflamed, she noticed right away (as did a number of residents and my PT) that the long head of my biceps tendon, the one that the previous ortho cut, never dropped down in to my arm like it was supposed to. Evidently it was large and got caught up on another tendon and stuck in my bicipital groove, causing me pain, which to me reminded me of impingement pain and biceps tendonitis. Well, two days later I was back again in the OR, (June 15th) having exploratory surgery, soft tissue removed, and the long head of my biceps tendon reattached under my pec muscle. (Tenodesis). It's amazing how good I feel. I don't think I am quite ready to go back to lifting patients. I see my ortho August 8th and am going to request another 4 weeks of PT. After that I believe I will be ready.

At any rate, A. Sorry for the long run on paragraph above, and B. Don't ever give up. Question your doctors. See a new one if you have to. I started to wonder if there was something wrong with me because nobody could seem to figure out what was causing my pain, when it was clearly evident. I know I may have to live with some residual pain for the rest of my life, and perhaps in the future, I may have to have other surgeries (hopefully not). But for now, I am finally a happy 33 year old female, who feels I can do things again, and will soon be back to working out, lifting, and playing sports the way I used to. I don't cry anymore, because I know there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Aug 26, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I can't believe this!
by: Anonymous

I had my SAD surgery on June 20, 2011. I am a very healthy 55 year old ICU RN and have had lots of other surgeries in the past and this one by far has been the most painful experience of my life. What's up with THAT??? What is going on that so many of us are having this horrible pain? Had I known this, I may have gone straight for amputation! ha! ha! Something is wrong in the process. This to me is an unusually large number of people suffering from the same horrible post procedure pain. Some days are better than others, but for the most part the pain is constant, the spasms bring me to tears, and PT is just provides temporary relief. It's so sad to see so many people suffering and feeling like they are going crazy, but at the same time it's comforting to know that I am NOT crazy, and I'm not the only one who is experiencing such misery! I certainly feel for all of you, especially the ones who have had multiple surgeries to try to fix the pain. I am taking one day at a time, I start each day with a pain pill and a workout of some sort. The more I try to return to my normal lifestyle, the easier it seems to tolerate the pain. You have to put your mind in a better place. I have even been hiking again and believe it or not, the backpack straps offer SUPPORT and seem to give me a little pain relief, AND I get to see some beautiful places at the same time! (I usually pay for it the next day, but I'd be in pain anyway, right?) I have returned to work, which only aggravates the pain, but it beats sitting on my butt at home watching my muscles and brain cells wither away. Sleeping is the worst, but if you put a THICK firm pillow or foam block under your head, it will keep your shoulder from folding inward as you curl up to sleep and keeps that supraspinatus muscle from cramping up. I get my best sleep this way and wake up with alot less pain. Jeez, I don't know what else to say, but good luck to all of you. Your posts have been a real eye opener for me - thanks for sharing!!
Sep 27, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not on my own
by: Chris Jackson

I too have had SAD for a bone spur, on the 4th August. I seemed to recover very quickly for the first few weeks but now appear to be slipping backwards, having more pain than when first operated on. I have trouble sleeping too, but having found this web site feel I am no longer alone with my problem
Oct 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		fractured acromion
by: nora

Hi! Subacromial Decompression That Suffer

I would like to give those of you that are complaining about hearing a clicking, cruching, or clunch noise. And you feel excruating pain throughout your shoulder. Lifting your arm out to the side is unbareable and you feel that there is a skewer stabed you in your upper arm, shoulder and your forearm after clavicle ressected.
I'm sorry to say that after I complained long enough and a NEW orthopedic surgeron I got an answer through a auxillary x-ray. IT IS A ACROMION FRACTURE!!! I'm so sorry to tell you this bad news. I't only gets worst. Another surgery with plates, screws and wire. Confined to a sling and 1 more year of therapy. And if your bones don't grow back toghter sucessfully your are screwed. If anyone had this type of surgery please contact me here. Radiolagist say do'nt get it fixed because you will be in 100x more pain.

Sincerly,

Nora in New Orleans
















Sincerely, Nora


Oct 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		fractured acromion
by: nora

Hi! Subacromial Decompression That Suffer

I would like to give those of you that are complaining about hearing a clicking, cruching, or clunch noise. And you feel excruating pain throughout your shoulder. Lifting your arm out to the side is unbareable and you feel that there is a skewer stabed you in your upper arm, shoulder and your forearm after clavicle ressected.
I'm sorry to say that after I complained long enough and a NEW orthopedic surgeron I got an answer through a auxillary x-ray. IT IS A ACROMION FRACTURE!!! I'm so sorry to tell you this bad news. I't only gets worst. Another surgery with plates, screws and wire. Confined to a sling and 1 more year of therapy. And if your bones don't grow back toghter sucessfully your are screwed. If anyone had this type of surgery please contact me here. Radiolagist say do'nt get it fixed because you will be in 100x more pain.

Sincerly,

Nora in New Orleans
















Sincerely, Nora


Oct 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Decompression
by: Matrix

I had my surgery t the end of July was doing months before surgery and still in pt this was work related, I also have neck disc problem with carpel, it is a slow process, iam improving , future who knows how the body will heal, my before and after X-rays show what was taken out, you have to stick with it, let your pain be your guide with pt.

Good luck
Nov 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I'm scared I made the wrong decision
by: Laurie

I am 25 days post op from a SAD, and my pain is worse than pre-op. I have full ROM but with severe pain, my ortho told me if I was 100% when I went back in three weeks that I could skip PT. I have been doing exercises with 2 lbs. weights and it kill s me, I am athletic and cross-train 3-5 times a week, but I am stuck just doing cardio and selected shoulder exercises with the 2 lbs. I can do push-ups but have to do them on my knees as opposed to the regular way I used to do them. Will it get better or worse? My MRI showed bone spurs and torn rotator cuff but when surgeon got in there, there was no tear so now I fear I made it worse?
Nov 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Laurie, what are you doing to your self !!
by: maisie

Ortho should have told you ...slow but sure ... shoulders as you see are mighty painfull and too much , too early over stretching, or lifting WILL hinder & irritate& certainly delay healing. ROM does not mean you are over the surgey ... just that the problem has been released.

My consultant did say that following SAD often an anti , inflamatory injection is needed [ in 45 % of cases .. maybe this will help. Did they take away any bone ??. the pain apparently is there as they cut through the main ligament [ the name escapes me at the moment between the collar bone and shoulder joint.
A TENs machine is brilient for this pain. If it goes down your arm then some thing diferent is occuring , so go back to your ortho.
Nov 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstar 		SAD NEW
by: Anonymous

I had a DCR and SAD on May 5th, 2011. It has been over six months since my surgery and the pain in my rotator cuff, which was never there before, is much worse than the pain I had in my AC joint before the surgery. I have gone to two orthos, multiple physical therapists, and everyone keeps telling me that I should be fine in a couple of weeks. That has been going on for over five months.

For anyone who is thinking about getting this surgery, DON'T. I wish I would have known about this beforehand. I want to kill my self as the pain is so bad and there is no hope for the future I fear. Either there is no God, or he just hates me. My life is a living Hell.
Nov 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstar 		SAD NEW
by: Anonymous

I had a DCR and SAD on May 5th, 2011. It has been over six months since my surgery and the pain in my rotator cuff, which was never there before, is much worse than the pain I had in my AC joint before the surgery. I have gone to two orthos, multiple physical therapists, and everyone keeps telling me that I should be fine in a couple of weeks. That has been going on for over five months.

For anyone who is thinking about getting this surgery, DON'T. I wish I would have known about this beforehand. I want to kill my self as the pain is so bad and there is no hope for the future I fear. Either there is no God, or he just hates me. My life is a living Hell.
Dec 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Also in pain 8 months post op NEW
by: Anonymous

I have been dealing with this since Feb...I had surgery in May, the decompression thing (take out the ac joint and part of the clavicle). Unfortunately it is a work comp deal and I wasn't able to choose my doctor. I have continued to tell my surgeon about the pain that I am in. He doens't listen, nor do I think he cares. After he released me at maximum capacity, I went to a dr I chose. He gave me an injection and I thought he had cured me, but after a week and a half, I am in pain again. I have also found out in reading reports, that I have a disc protrusion on c5-c6. I do believe that this all links together. I just made an appt with a chiropractor, I am hoping that he will help me. I am at my wits end. I was working at a computer for 8 hours/day before my surgery. I tried to go back to work for two days at 6 weeks post op and could not do it, because of the pain. No one believes me. Thankfully, this site has given me some relief that I am not alone.
Jan 11, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery Next week NEW
by: Southernfocus

I am having surgery next week. I have suffered through 11 years of pain. I have been stubborn and I am really looking forward to having this surgery. I know that I am going to work at getting back my strength but I have hope that I am not going to have this pain again.

I have rotator cuff tendonitis, bicep tendonitis and an inflammed bursa. I have been dealing with this for 10 years!!! I have gotten injections that would make it subside but that has now stopped working. PT made it worse.

Jan 12, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAD months on NEW
by: Chris Jackson

I had surgery for SAD August and have experienced terrible pain. I was under a physio connected with the hospital but he only showed me what excercises I needed to do. Never hands on. I was I'm so much pain back in nov I paid to see an osteopath and had 6 sessions but this did not help the pain. Someone recommended a private physio and I have now had 4 sessions with her and for the first time since op in August I am feeling much better. This wonderful lady is definitely hands on and the exercises she has given have really helped. For the first time I can lie on this shoulder for 10 mins without horrendous pain. She also said there was scar tissue which she treated with a machine. Treatment on going but worth every penny. So those out there still suffering don't give up hope. I can at last see light at the end of a long tunnel. And if needed change your physio. Good luck
Jan 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		dont get subacromial decompression NEW
by: Anonymous

i had it done 1 year ago it worked up untill yesterday the pain was back with a vengeance ,i dont know what to do.just dont get sad,cos even if ut workes ,it wont last

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