Anyone had keyhole shoulder surgery?

[WildThong]

I've to have this next week, it's to do with a previous injury that hasn't cleared up. I'm told it is 3 cuts and will be off work for 4 weeks at least. I just wondered if anyone else had this and could tell me about what to expect?

You will be out of hospital same day. Wounds will be covered by clear plastic hydro colloid plasters. You may get a little bleeding.

You are likely to have had a nerve block, so your arm will be dead until the next day. Leave your arm in the sling until your muscles are responding again.

As soon as you can remove the sling and get your arm moving. It will be stiff and you will have restricted movement. Getting dresses is interesting.

Most importantly, make sure you use it. If you don't you risk frozen shoulder. Recovery time is 3-6 months but I would say 18 months before it is completely pain free (if you do sport).

It's a bit sore, and can be painful if you reach the range of movement, but follow the physio's instructions.

I was told to use mine, and was off work about a month, but back to my sport after two months, although I had to take it easy. I was still in a bit of pain, and it took 18 months before it was 99%.

It's worth doing, but don't expect to be brilliant for some time

Thank you fuzz!
It looks like I will just need time, but definitely worth it to get it sorted properly. I previously had 3 hydro-cortisone injections which have helped but not 'cured' it.
It's practical stuff like fastening my bra and showering etc afterwards as well that worry me, I'm quite an independent private person so I'm hoping that I will be able to cope with day to day things.

Onwards and upwards!

Yes - have had it twice for frozen shoulders, one done & then 18 months later had to have the second done.

It was about 10 years ago & I have to look very hard to see the scars now.

I know mine was a different procedure to yours but what helped my rehab more than anything was being bloody saintly about doing the exercises the physio gave me.

I'd also agree that improvement went on for about 18 months post op.

Good luck & I hope all goes well for you.

I've had this too. I had an overnight stay and a huge pad on my shoulder for a week. No sling though.

Take is easy but do your physio. I ended up having 10weeks off work (unable to drive). In this weather be very careful once you have your bandages off, keep covered up and don't burn your shoulder.

I found the first week it was hardest to wash my hair etc. don't try and do too much either- I pushed myself too hard really.

I hope it goes ok- mine is so much better now. I had the injections too which didn't work.

Ps- did I say do your physio?!

Oooh and strategically placed pillows help you not to roll over onto your shoulder in your sleep!

So the message is 'saintly exercise'
I will follow it to the letter!

I had to wear sling for 6 weeks, day and night. No driving for 6 weeks. Off work for 8 weeks. Had restricted movement for quite a time. Didn't think I would ever swim again. And then I got frozen shoulder. Some intensive hands on physio got things moving. It took 18 months to get back to normal.

Have had no problems since.

Can I ask a bit of a personal question
How do you use a tampon one handed?

Haven't got a clue, Wild but I think maybe a bit of practice should sort it!

Much the same as you do anything else left handed; the best you can!

Thanks ladies