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@ddsack

I just had my reverse TSR done last Thursday, Oct 21, and am very pleased with my progress so far. I was intubated for the anesthesia, so my throat was sore and scratchy, but am mostly over that now. I felt no pain after the surgery or the first couple of post surgery days. I got Toradol via IV drip while in the hospital (came home the next day) and Tramadol to take at home. I quit the Tramadol the 2nd day home, because I hate the side effects, and didn't want to take laxatives for longer than to get the first bowel movements since laxatives give me terrible stomach cramps. I am alternating taking prescription Naproxen and 650 mg Acetaminophin. I had a med schedule designed for me, but due to sleeping and naps, I've adapted times to what works for me. My pain level is still very low, maybe 2 or 3 out of 10. It may fluctuate from a bit of itching or burning to low level aching, but at worst is less than my original arthritis shoulder pain. I have the Tramadol and Oxycodone in reserve, but I doubt I will need to use them.

I have been doing my hand and pendulum arm exercises three to five times a day. Real physical therapy will not start for two weeks. I really like the immobilizer that they gave me instead of a traditional sling. I can easily disconnect the wrist velcro from the waist if I need to do some small movements. I didn't think I could use a mouse, but with the wrist disconnected, I can rest my lower arm on my computer table and type and use the mouse. It's nice to have my husband around in case I need help with something, but it's pretty rare that I can't find a way to do it myself. I was already used to washing hair and showering with mostly just my left hand. With big loose tops with wide necks, I can dress myself, no need for a bra, since the immobilizer waist strap covers most of that up. Compared to my two TKR's (knee) I have had less pain and also better post-op sleep, I'd say this was definitely an easier surgery for me.

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Replies to "I just had my reverse TSR done last Thursday, Oct 21, and am very pleased with..."

Congratulations on your successful reverse shoulder surgery. Good for you to be able to meet every challenge, including your computer mouse. I also liked the immobilizer. When I gave it up, I started wearing a vest over my shirt or sweater. Then I held onto the edge with my surgery hand at just the right height to support the shoulder. That worked also.

How nice it must feel to be able to accept the challenges and figure out how to shower, wash your hair and enjoy the day in spite of the challenges.

Now that you mention it....I also think my reverse shoulder was less painful than either of my TKR's. Perhaps it is because the shoulder doesn't have to support us the way a knee does.

You must figure out a good sleep posture.....did you use a wedge?

May you continue to be free of suffering and the causes of suffering.
Chris

Good afternoon, I read your story. I had my left shoulder done at the end of 2018. I had no pain at all. I was surprised, I was expecting a lot of pain and I kept waiting but no pain. Now it has been almost 3 yeas. I did my exercises and PT. Everything seemed fine. But now my range of motion is not good. I can not reach behind my back or over to the other arm. I have to use my other arm to push my arm up to put glasses in the cupboard. I do get a shot in my shoulder every now and then if the muscles really hurt. Some times my arm feels swollen and I have to rest it. I have been pushing my arms canning and not done yet. I would enjoy to hear as to your progress in the future. I wish you well and stay safe and healthly. KLH