Hi @tekkie50 and so sorry for what you are going through.

I've had both knees, right hip, and left shoulder replaced. My left shoulder was "anatomical" because my rotator cuff was intact. You're in the opposite situation and so need a reverse TSR. I'll also try and answer your other questions.

1. I don't think you need to get an MRI for your other shoulder - yet. Deal with the shoulder that needs the rTSR. But yes, eventually get it Xrayed and MRI'd to check the condition of the rotator cuff.

2. Protecting your shoulder while you wait for surgery. A few ideas - start sleeping propped up on your back with a small pillow or some folded hand towels under your problem arm. If you are a side sleeper this will take some adjusting. I did eventually get used to it.

For pain, ask your Dr to prescribe 5% lidocaine patches. You can apply this over the shoulder at night for some pain relief.

Alternatively, you can use K-tape. You'll need someone to apply it but I found this tape to work better than lidocaine at relieving my pain. It lifts up the skin over the affected shoulder and improves circulation and reduces inflammation, swelling, the associated pain. Do some research on how to apply the tape. There are also videos available. It looks kinda silly, as if it wouldn't work, but it really does help.

3. My lumbar spine is a disaster area. I have stenosis, scoliosis spondylolisthesis, degenerative discs, and on. I've had two bouts with sciatica, very painful. I did get laminotomies 12 years ago (holes drilled in S1 through L4 to create space for the sciatic nerve). This worked and I haven't had fusion surgery - yet, and I'd like to avoid it.

And yes, absolutely, get an MRI of your lumbar spine. And pursue as many non-fusion alternatives as possible. Fusion, in my opinion, should be the last resort. So yes, please have a spine surgeon check out your back.

(One last point on the spine and all other bony structures/joints - use only ice for pain relief, never heat. Heat is good for muscles, but bad for bones. Why? Heat causes an inflow of blood to the area. That makes the muscles feel good, but perversely it increases inflammation. Stick with cold.)

I hope this helps you. If I missed anything or you have follow up questions, please let me know,

Joe