PM and Frozen Shoulder

Hi, I have had my Pacemaker for 2 years and one day, no huge problems so far, but recently I have developed frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) and it is becoming increasingly painful. Of course it is on the same side as my pacemaker implant, which seems to make it worse - the swelling is increasing, and the pain is pretty severe from the elbow to the neck, across the back as well. Does any one have any recommendations as to how to deal with this without interfering with the PM? Thanks, Daylily

3 Comments

heat and ice?

by Tracey_E - 2008-12-31 09:12:08

I'm sorry to hear you're shoulder is frozen, it sounds painful. Heat and ice won't hurt your pm. Pain meds are fine. If you go to physical therapy they'll have to watch where they do ultrasound, you can't get it too close to the device.

Frozen Shoulder

by Bruce Martin - 2008-12-31 10:12:22

I too got frozen shoulder after my ICD implant. After seeing an Orthopedic Physician, he put me under general anesthesia and manipulated the shoulder free. It was such a relieve when I awoke from the anesthesia and I could raise my arms (both froze) above my head. Hopefully you will find an Ortho that will use this method rather than surgery. PT was needed afterward to get my range of motion back. Good luck with getting some relief, it is a horrible pain.

Bruce

Yes, Manipulation is best

by bobad - 2009-01-01 10:01:07


Although not as long lasting as surgery, it's way less invasive.

Manipulation "stretches" and loosens the capsule, and you get instant relief and improved range of motion. The sedation is mild, and has no lingering effects like anesthesia in surgery, And of course, no chance of infection as in surgery.

If the capsule shrinks after the manipulation, reduced range of motion and pain can partially return. Exercise can slow it down or prevent it. Best exercise is a horizontal (chin-up) bar. Hang from the bar by increasing amounts once or twice daily. If you can hold your own weight daily, it won't likely ever return.

Until the manipulation procedure, meds can help. 2 Ibuprofen 3x per day should cool it off a little after about the 3rd day. If that doesn't help, Prednisone shots or oral should help. Narcotic painkillers are good for emergencies where it throbs badly and quick relief is needed.

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