Frustrated with shoulder replacement
I am not sure if I should even post this. I have removed the medical facilities for obvious reasons. There is much more to this, but I have done my best to summarize.
Currently, I am facing challenges related to an unresolved injury in my left shoulder. I am a disabled veteran with a 100 percent disability rating, and I would greatly appreciate sound advice moving forward.
On March 13th, I underwent an anatomical shoulder replacement surgery, which received approval from the VA Community Care program. I was referred to xxx for the procedure and recovery process.
During my four-week follow-up appointment, I was scheduled to meet with my surgeon to assess my healing process. However, a mix-up occurred, resulting in my being seen by an incorrect physician. During this consultation, the physician manipulated my arm, which caused a tear in my subscapularis tendon. As a result, I was presented with the sole option of undergoing a second surgery—a reverse shoulder replacement procedure—which took place on July 31st.
I complied with all the surgeon's directives, including participating in physical therapy. Nevertheless, I became increasingly concerned during therapy due to my slow recovery and my inability to elevate my arm beyond 90 degrees. At a subsequent appointment with the surgeon's assistant, she voiced her concerns and ordered a series of tests; however, none successfully identified the underlying issue. She made an effort to have the surgeon evaluate my arm. Still, he hesitated to see me and ultimately communicated that there was nothing further he could do for my condition.
I revisited the Veterans Affairs (VA) facility and engaged in a consultation with the orthopedic department, which confirmed the persistence of an impingement resulting in pain. The physician advised initiating Community Care and recommended that I seek further treatment xxx. However, the Community Care Department declined my request, citing the existence of an active referral, xxx. I conveyed that xxx was no longer providing the necessary assistance. In response, they offered me two options: utilize secondary insurance or wait until March 2025, when the referral would expire. Note: I have no secondary insurance.
After multiple attempts, I contacted Patient Advocates and finally spoke with a representative. The representative indicated they would investigate the matter to seek a resolution. I want to clarify that there has been no communication for over a month.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.
This may not be relevant but after my back surgery I switched from regular PT to Water PT. It was much more successful for getting more mobility.
Update
Was called today and I am approved to see another doctor