Back in May, an unexpected slip of my right arm in the tub quickly disabled me, doubling me over in pain. Stupid “me” spent a couple of weeks in denial thinking this too shall pass. My gut instinct said it was bad. I knew I was healthy and strong. However, at this point my injury was growing increasingly worse. A trip to my orthopedic and an MRI confirmed my fears: My Rotator cuff was completely torn. Yuck. The pain was more excruciating than anything I’ve ever endured.
When I finally acquiesced to the reality of my limited choices (live in death defying pain or have surgery) the decision seemed obvious. Perhaps it was my over optimistic attitude that made me appear to be the perfect candidate to whiz through this vicious attack to my body. Whatever it was, I jumped on board and thought (like most anyone who is considerably “healthy”) that I could handle what I was about to face. I could not have been more naïve.
Pain is pain. Rotator cuff injuries are amongst the most painful and severe we’ll ever endure. The lesson I learned from changing my lifestyle in advance is that the length of time we’ll spend recovering can be greatly shortened. But pain is still pain.
The greatest challenge I faced was surgery. Most procedures are outpatient only. As great as my surgeon was, the post-op process experience can render quite a few unexpected moments. For this reason, I share the following advice as a patient to those considering or awaiting this surgery.
Prepare ahead
Begin using you uninjured side primarily before your surgery. You’ll find it will be much easier to adapt to your limitations during surgery.
Caretaker
Their role is to be the patients advocate. Try to have at least two or three caretakers who can be with the patient 24-7 for at least the first 7 days. The medication received during surgery will slowly wear off. Be prepared for the pain that will follow. Do not attempt to cure it through higher dosages of medication. Make certain to follow the prescribed medication exactly as written. If anything is in question, call your doctor immediately. Speak with the doctor or PA directly. No matter how severe the pain becomes, do not over medicate or supplement/mix with any other medications. Call someone on the list of caretakers to step in if the anxiety the patient is suffering from becomes too overwhelming for you to handle alone. If you are the only caretaker, ask in advance for the doctor to prescribe at home healthcare assistance. Ask friends, neighbors, churches, synagogues, mosques or whatever groups you are affiliated with for someone to step in for a few hours of relief. If you have only one caretaker, contact your insurance company in advance to review coverage for in-home patient care. I cannot underscore this advice enough.
The patient will not be able to remove their sling for four weeks. Females will need a slip-on dress requiring no movement from the arms. Men will need slip on shorts and tank tops with only one side strap (the non-operated side) or Velcro straps. There are sites online that offer post-op clothing for this type of surgery, as well. For the first 72 hours forgo undergarments; too difficult to navigate during recovery. If you have to return to work, speak with your employer in advance about what you will be allowed to wear during this time. Here’s a link to clothing ideas online http://www.etsy.com/listing/74193160/s-l-post-op-clothing-shoulder-surgery
Sleeping/resting
If possible, patient will need a recliner to sleep and rest in post-surgery. According to their physician’s instruction, their arm strap will need to remain in place for several weeks. Sleep and rest are precious to a full recovery. Invest in two icepacks that can be rotated throughout the day/night during recovery. Most outpatient care includes an at home icepack machine that is used for the first 48 hrs. However, I found those machines were difficult for the patient to self-operate, disconnect/connect during ongoing recovery post the first few days. The hose carrying the cold water line to the pack over the shoulder bear down and cause pain.
After the first week, your arm sling may be removed. Your sleeping position will change from one position (back) to side and back sleeping. You will not be able to sleep on your injured side and will likely require a pillow under your injured arm during rest. Ask your doctor to provide instruction before implementing any changes to your sleeping position. Visit this link to view a demonstration http://youtu.be/5nWQqb9thqo.
Nutrition
Water is extremely beneficial to keep your body hydrated. Liquid nutrition may be the most agreeable and easiest to digest post surgery (Soups, banana/yogurt milk and protein based smoothies). Keep it simple and small. Appetite may take up to 48 hours to return, but nutrition is vital for helping the body to heal. Get your doctors approval before returning to your daily regimen of vitamins and/or supplements, or any other medications.
Post operative constipation is a potential side effect. Consume meals easy to digest.
First post-op check-up
Write down any questions and concerns you have before you return to the doctor. Bring a pad/pencil to write down notes, instructions and future appointments. Everyone recovers at a different pace, so try to give your-self as much grace as possible. Your recovery greatly depends upon your being an agreeable, positive patient. Preparation helps to ensure your full recovery.
Therapy
Just when you thought the worst was part of the journey was over, get ready to take a deep breath. Physical Therapy (PT) can be grueling. Depending upon your circumstances, PT can take up to 4-6 months. Your complete commitment is necessary to your success. PT will be at an authorized center. Ask to be assigned to a center convenient in your community.
Driving
You likely will not be able to drive until your sling is removed.
A Rotator cuff tear hits one of the most used parts of our body. The greater the tear - the more severe the pain. No one will comprehend your agony except those who have experienced it. You will need to commit to staying as focused, positive and resilient as possible. You will also need to realize the helplessness your caregiver will feel throughout your injury to recovery stages. Be sure to align more than one caregiver to help you during the first week of recovery. As you improve, slowly become more and more independent. Simple things like brushing your hair, teeth. Take short walks around the house. Learn how to get up and down from a resting position. Again, ask your doctor what you can do to help your healing process begin and do not overdo it.
Quick Tip for Wellness: Ask and prepare before surgery and your recovery will go much smoother.
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