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What to wear after shoulder replacement
Joint Replacements | Last Active: Jun 8, 2021 | Replies (49)Comment receiving replies
I am scared of everything. Mostly because of pain and such strong drugs and living alone. I am scared of the unknown.
Replies to "I am scared of everything. Mostly because of pain and such strong drugs and living alone...."
Totally understand your fear of pain and drugs. Can you also go home with an ice machine? You wear a cape type of thing over your shoulder and the machine runs ice water (you load the machine with ice and water) through the pad to ice your shoulder. Even on your own you can cover your shoulder with the pad. Or order a large gel ice pad from Amazon that you keep in the freezer and use throughout the day. Between that and having the nerve block catheter I took only two heavy duty pain killers post surgery. Didn't need them. However if I had needed them it is better to stay on top of the pain for the short time you need the meds. Used tylenol after the catheter came out. Let us know if you've questions. Sally
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It is so good to recognize what you are afraid of. This will help you to prepare and build a plan. Here are a couple of my initial suggestions:
- Talk to you doctor or nurse about taking pain medications.
- Tell them your concerns.
- Ask about managing pain BEFORE it happens. It is easier and better to manage pain before it hurts.
- Contact a neighbor or friend to be on standby. Have their phone number on speed dial. Prepare a schedule for them to check on you.
Any other thoughts to help prepare?