reverse shoulder replacement

Finally now have set the date  in the beginning of March, for the reverse shoulder replacement after getting Pacemaker in Aug  '19.  Which was put on hold while recovering from pacemaker.  These operations have come a long way.  Remember in the 80's being in the hospital for 10 days while recovering from an elbow replacement.  Now only overnite than out.

   Right arm in sling for 6 weeks, he did say i could drive, tested that therory out this morning not impressed.  Seat belt hard to get on and of course turning the key and moving the gear shift.  Let alone turning the steering wheel.

mary


4 Comments

Reverse shoulder replacement

by AgentX86 - 2020-02-21 23:31:23

OK, I gotta ask...  What is a "reverse shoulder replacement"? Do they put your arm behind your back or do they take out the prosthetic and replace it with the original?

Yeah, surgery has come a long way.  It used to be that one had several days bed rest after a hip replacement and now you're up and walking the same day.  It's also not unusal for a knee or hip to be done with just a local anesthec.  I had an AV ablation and pacemaker implanted with just locals but I wouldn't be happy having them saw out a hip while I was still awake.

I can imagine that driving would be a problem.  I'm surprised they didn't tell you to forget it for a month (or whatever). I've had shoulder problems before (lisinopril side effect) and I know it was almost impossible for me to put the seatbelt on.  I get that part.  I wish you luck!

Reverse shoulder replacement

by Good Dog - 2020-02-22 09:57:01

I had one of those.

A conventional shoulder replacement device mimics the normal anatomy of the shoulder: a plastic "cup" is fitted into the shoulder socket (glenoid), and a metal "ball" is attached to the top of the upper arm bone (humerus). In a reverse total shoulder replacement, the socket and metal ball are switched.

BTW: No, you are not allowed to drive. Probably the most diffficult thing was starting physical therapy. I started it about 2 weeks out, if I recall.That kicked my butt. I am not sure what was worse, my wife needing to drive me everywhere or PT? I think it was PT. 

David

thanks

by new to pace.... - 2020-02-23 10:09:41

Thanks for explaining. 

 Now just have to figure out how to get blouse and  tank top on/off. thinking should cut the seam and just slide the tank top on.  Recall when i was in rehab(with a fractured left ankle and sprained right wrist)  from the waist down had  put on while sitting on bed.  Shoelaces are elastic no tying.

  Instead of using door key will bring garage door opener with me.  Left arm does not straighten.  Has it's own curvature.

Recovery

by Good Dog - 2020-02-23 16:20:43

It is a tough recovery, but well worth it. The shoulder is the most complex joint given the wide range of motion, The hardest part is regaining the strength you need to be able to get normal use restored. The Doc will want you to get right at it and although you are still sore you do need to work your muscles. I woke-up in recovery immediately after the surgery with no anesthetics. Wow, that was shocking. My wife yelled to a nurse and they immediately gave me something through my IV and I was back in La, La land. They kept me overnight and released me early enough the next day that it did not constitute an overnight stay for insurance purposes. Damn insurance. Really, I tolerated the pain very well from that first night on, but I did take pain med's. for a while including through the PT. Really, the PT was the most difficult part of it all. If I had it to do over again I would not hesitate. Before the surgery I had a frozen shoulder. So I did regain full use which is great!

Again,

I wish you nothing but the very best! Check back and let us know how you are doing.

Sincerely,

David

You know you're wired when...

You have a little piece of high-tech in your chest.

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We are very lucky to have these devices.