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Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Recovery process
Joint Replacements | Last Active: Oct 13, 2023 | Replies (138)Comment receiving replies
If you were told you need reverse shoulder replacement surgery, there is probably a lot of damage. I was told in 2015 that I needed a total shoulder replacement. It was scheduled for 2016 but I backed out. I had undergone two knee replacements in 2015 and I just felt adding a third surgery would be too much.
I exercised in our heated pool and really did not have any pain. When I asked a surgeon why I had no pain, he said that my bones had fused together so there was no osteoarthritis to cause pain. I am not sure I understand that.
So, finally, in 2023, I had reverse shoulder replacement surgery on my left non dominant shoulder. I had no pain with the surgery nor after the surgery. I think it is common now to give you a type of lidocaine that gets pumped into the nerves going to your shoulder. You wear it for 2 1/2 days and by that time, the pain is pretty much gone.
I did not need pain meds - just tylenol. I also took celebrex. Celebrex may interfere with healing but I have taken it for a long time.
I don't know what my final range of motion will be. I am concerned that I have been a little aggressive about lifting stuff and also using that shoulder. Would I know if something is out of whack?? Not sure.
Replies to "If you were told you need reverse shoulder replacement surgery, there is probably a lot of..."
Good afternoon @hsminc, @cynthiakempton, and others coping with reverse shoulder surgery. One of you has a dull ache in your arm every morning. Another wonders if she has been a bit aggressive about using the shoulder to lift "stuff".
I can share my ups and downs with you. However, I have a question. Do you all have a PT and have participated in post-surgery treatment with a focus on healing and regaining movement? Are you doing the "circles" every day?
When you sleep, how is your shoulder protected? Do you wear your sling 24 hours a day? Are you able to create a stable environment during the night by wearing an oversized t-shirt that keeps your arms tight to your body? That helps a lot.
Once you are free of the sling how will you support your arm? I actually wore vests and held the opening with my surgery side hand. Just enough support to prevent injury.
That is the beginning of my "you can do it" checklist. I have now had four shoulder surgeries and am considering a fifth one as a reverse on my left shoulder. Right now, my MFR therapist is working on it twice a week. The guided injection just hasn't made enough difference.
Regarding range of motion......I have discovered that my first reverse shoulder does a fairly good job of helping me get dressed and pack my overnight bag. However, eating an ice cream cone is a bit of a strange site as my elbow wants to remain higher than my shoulder. Even after 10+ years.....I still have occasional pain after too much activity.
Here's some good news. It is now possible to have the replacement mechanism
fitted to your body the same way that knee replacements are done. I also think you can have robotic surgery which guarantees less invasive and more accurate surgery.
Good luck to you all. And remember, I am here for you.
Let us know how you are doing and ask any questions you encounter. We can all help each other.
May you be safe, protected and free from inner and outer harm.
Chris
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I am 2 weeks post op and am waking up every morning with a dull ache in my arm. There is no position that will relieve it. Any suggestions?