I started PT 2 days after surgery. I go 3 times a week. Most of it is passive - the therapist moving my arm, but I have exercises to do every day - pendulum circles clockwise and counterclockwise, pendulum back and forth, right hand moving left arm on slick table top with pillowcase underneath and hands on counter and moving carefully backward and sideways. PT has me lifting arm on pulley with right arm doing the work. Cane in both hands behind lifting up and back. Are you icing a lot? It really helps. I'm using Arnica gel on the arm and taking Traumeel tablets to help my healing - both are fabulous and can be purchased at health food store - they are homeopathic drugs. Almost all bruising was gone at 2 weeks because of the Arnica.. Have also had an accupuncture treatment. Haven't even taken Tylenol for past 4 days. PT is thrilled with the movement in my left arm. May never regain more than 50-60% since arm was so bad and for so long. I see Dr. Hattrup this Wednesday. Have no external stitches.

Wow! You are really doing a lot. I guess each Dr. is different. I have basically no pain and don't take any meds other than what I take for my arthritis. I had to be off the anti-inflammatory one for 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after the surgery. So my knee swelled up really bad. It is still difficult to walk a long distance. I started the meds a week ago and it is getting better, slowly! Since you said you don't have any external stitches did you have a total replacement or the arthroscopic type surgery? They replaced the entire ball and socket on mine. Seems like everyone's situation is a little different. Glad things are working out well for you.

I had a total replacement of my left shoulder. What kind of anti-inflammatory meds are you on? Good to hear that your knee is improving since you're back on the meds.

I am taking Sulindac. I've used it for probably 15 years or so. I've also taken Methotrexate for that long. That is a disease modifying drug and doesn't really help with the inflammation. I'm looking to find a new Rheumatologist at Mayo. I started a discussion on this site to see if anyone had any referrals. My Dr. left the clinic I went to before so am in need of a new one. Good talking to you. This a great site.

Good luck finding a new Rheumatologist! I'll let you know how my 3 week appt goes.