I had my surgery 2 days ago (June 22, 2021). I live alone without help so I did a lot of pre-surgery prep. I broke the seals on water bottles and put them in the fridge. I prepped food and put it in easy open containers and other things. It makes recovery a lot easier. The hospital gave me a reacher. I put all my liquids (body wash, shampoo, etc. in pump bottles).
Tamara, thank you for your advice. It’s all those little things that I’m freaking out about that I’m going to be totally unable to do. Great thinking ahead on your part! I tore my cuff on my dominant side and I’m so angry at myself bc I did it by rushing to move heavy stuff-much heavier than I probably should’ve. But I had a storage unit that I didn’t want to have to pay for another month. So I rushed in 4 days with an old dolly and at the end, I felt that pulling pain in my shoulder but figured I just overworked it from all the moving…no such luck. I woke up a few days later in so much pain I had to go to the hospital and that started the whole thing. First the xrays that showed nothing & now I’m scheduled for an MRI this week and then I’ll see the Orthopedic doctor etc. I’m just so angry at myself for being so naive about hurting myself! Now I would’ve gladly paid for another 2 or even 3 months for the storage unit to take my time and move my stuff! But oh well hindsight is always 20/20 right? Thank you so much again for taking your time to post. I hope you’re doing well and healing well! Take care
@@binaryfairy4197 don't beat yourself up about what you cannot change. What's done is done. Focus on getting better. You've learned from your mistake. That's the important thing. I am doing great!!! It's been almost 2 weeks and God has blessed my recovery!
Thanks for this video ❤️ I'm having surgery very soon and I'm freaking out not because of surgery but because it's my dominate arm. I have a16 year old disabled son in a wheelchair and it's gonna be really tough and I worry about taking care of him. So stressed out. Prayers needed PLEASE 🙌💗
Julie Wyatt oh my goodness you have prayers coming to you however you are gonna need some help for both of you. Seriously need to call in favors. This is not a little deal. Please find some help for both of you even if it’s for just some simple things. That is a tough situation and wish you both nothing but the best. Happy healing.
Just wanted to say thanks for the great video. I have been bing watching these types of videos due to upcoming surgery and yours is definitely very helpful. Hope you found your way back quickly to an independent lifestyle. I have my 27 year old daughter who will be helping me through the healing process. Also you were the first video to actually show the shoulder after surgery. That was rad. Thanks again 😊🤙
Prior to my surgery on Oct 4 i watched at least 100 videos about the surgery and those made by patients. Lots of great information all over. I must say yours was one of the most helpful as you stress concentrating on what we CAN DO after the procedure, not what CANNOT do.
oldgiapetto great to hear from you and happy healing. Your probably a few weeks in now with your shoulder. Hope your finding lots of new things each day your able to do. One of my biggest issues was not being able to do all I wanted to do was find things that I could do. Keep up your physical therapy even 6 months I continue and am reaping good benefits from exercising my arm daily. I still have minor issues too but each week you find yourself doing something you couldn’t do the week before and poof suddenly you can. I can say after 6 months it really does take a year or better to be fully back but if your doing physical therapy I really feel like I’ll be there:) happy healing. Let me know how your doing:) hope your feeling better. You CAN DO IT:)
I completed my surgery for rotator cuff last week. Your video was extremely helpful in getting me prepared, and helping me through this first week. So much appreciation for you taking the time to share your ideas and tips for making things easier after the surgery!
My husband just had this surgery and he can not sleep in bed. Once this one heals he has to get his other arm done. Great information!!! Thank You so much!
It took me about 6 months before I really could sleep in bed again. It just seemed to take forever to not wake up in pain cause I put my arm in a weird position
Thank you so much for this video. Yours covers more than any I’ve found. Those little tips will come in handy for sure, especially the phone charger and toothpaste for me.
Hello from Australia. I’m 85 and in day two of Rotator Cuff recovery. Thanks for your very helpful video, it is difficult not to try and do “normal “ things, and I realise I should NOT even think about it. Your advice was meant for me . I will change my attitude of mind, and let healing take its course. Eric
Eric----Being close to 80 y/o, I am glad to see that another 'getting on in years' has had this surgery. My surgeon has told me that at my age and being diabetic, recovery could be "iffy". I hope you are doing well with a changed attitude of mind. [P.S., in 1973, I climbed Ayers Rock].
I just had my 11th surgery on my shoulders since 2015 from a accident underground in the coal mines with 2 more left to go. I tore rotator cuffs, labrums, bicep tendon ruptures, and flexor tendons in my elbows. By trial and error I learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast!!!
ZX14R BUSA KILLER holy crap that’s a lot of surgeries in such a short period!!! So sorry to hear that. Your one of the few of us that could get your arm out that quick. I know I had no ability to do it. I hope with all those surgeries your at least starting to feel put back together. Happy healing:)
'learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast' Doesn't that go against doc orders? Are you sore even when it wears off? How long was your recovery time?
Thank you. I’m on day 4 post reverse shoulder replacement. I’ve watched lots of videos, but you had some tips I hadn’t heard before. I wish I had rented that ice machine. I bought one that turned out to be defective, so now I’ve just got ice packs.
I'm getting ready to have this surgery and am alone, so glad I found your video. I can plan ahead now. I'm really scared and I'm 64 years old so say a prayer for me!
Thank you for the tips, I'm having surgery in 2 weeks. Your video and tips will help quite a bit, as I was wondering how I would be able to take care of myself, as I live alone.
I only took Tylenol otc 1000mg/6hrs. On a timer.. and had cryo cuff shoulder ice machine. First 5 days were a ton of shoulder fireworks... But that intense pain did subside after 5 days for me. I am on 2 month anniversary today. Doing pretty good. Still at night in bed it's not perfect but manageable for sleep. Just have to find that sweet spot position 😉
Thank you for this video.. I am calling the Orthopedics tomorrow to make my first visit appointment and hopefully get my surgery scheduled.. I have a full tear of the main ligament and partial tears in the remaining ligaments. 😬. Your video opened my eyes to things I will face thank you for that. Craig
Thanks for recording this! I’m having surgery in 2 weeks. I appreciated the practical advice and hearing about how I’m likely to feel those first few days. 👍😊
Mike Oliver sorry your having to join the club. I hope all goes well with surgery and healing be sure to physical therapy even months and months later to feel better. Even now if I’m now doing my exercises everyday it tightens up and hurts but if I do my exercises I feel pretty good
Having had rotator cuff surgery on both shoulders and having a reverse shoulder replacement coming up in two weeks. All of your tips would have been helpful on my first surgery. I’m sure your information will be very helpful to other people. Another suggestion I have is to get a grabber tool from a Medical Supply store. In addition, I made a great tool that I used with my last surgery. Take a fairly thick dowel rod and screw a large cup hook into one end and a rubber covered clothes wall hook on the other end. this works well with pushing off socks and shoes well as grabbing clothing on the floor. The ice machine is INVALUABLE! Thanks for sharing. Heal well and quickly!
My hubby is getting surgery on his shoulder and this has helped me so much to get a better idea of what I should buy to make his recovery much smoother. Thank you so much!
Savannah Shannon-Roberts oh I’m so glad it helped. I hope he has a great recovery:) stay on him on his physical therapy. Don’t let him slack on that it pays dividends in the long run!!!:)
I just had my 11th surgery on my shoulders since 2015 from a accident underground in the coal mines with 2 more left to go. I tore rotator cuffs, labrums, bicep tendon ruptures, and flexor tendons in my elbows. By trial and error I learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast!!!
Tomorrow is two weeks since my surgery. I love his cold therapy machine. I found for me the rotation of the 4 ice packs we already had in the freezer were so nice. That machine looked so nice. Kind of wish I saw this video before my surgery, but I’ve done ok. No pain meds after three days for me. Then it was just Tylenol and ice packs. Thanks to my doc for prescribing stool softeners. Bowels started working on day three again. Sleeping has sucked. Keep up the positive thoughts. Next thing you know you’ll be at your two week follow up with your surgeon.
@@deafduckracing2462 I'm at two weeks tomorrow and my shoulder has been the least of my problems. Once my nerve block wore off, i had a little issue breathing. I was told this might happen and it would go away. Well, it didn't and to complicate it every time i took a normal breath i had very bad muscle spasms in my torso which killed me. After a handful of days of thinking i will go away tomorrow and it didn't and not being able to take the pain, i finally called my doc. she had me come and sent me to the hospital. Seems my breathing issues were caused by blood clots in my lungs from the surgery. I'm on the mend now and feeling good.
I’m feeling pretty good. I still work my shoulder out a lot for physical therapy and I think that is most of my success. Good luck to you with your surgery:)
@ClarksAdventures, thank you so much for all of your advice and information about the post op from the surgery. I, like you and most people, tore my rotator cuff on my dominant side. I did it while hurrying to move boxes and bins out of my storage unit. I had just 4 days to move a bunch of stuff and I’m so angry at myself after the fact bc I was rushing to get the stuff moved so I wouldn’t have to pay for another month. Anyways I was almost done with it all and was moving things on a dolly and I suddenly felt that pulling-pain in my right shoulder but kept on working to finish up. But as we all know, hindsight is 20/20, and now I’d be more than willing to pay for 2 or 3 more months instead of having to go through surgery! Your video was really helpful especially about the ice pack machine! I’m going to definitely ask my doctor about it. I live alone and I’m stressing about things like laundry, cleaning, washing my hair-guess I’ll have to call in some favors from friends! I won’t be able to drive so I’ll have to have my groceries delivered. Luckily I have a couple of great neighbors who have volunteered to help drive me or go get me something I need immediately. Thank you again & I’m glad to read that you’re doing well. Take care!
Thank you for the video. I’m having surgery on my Rotator on May, 2020 and I’m not looking forward to it. You eased my mind a little thank you!! Take care.
Thank you. I needed to know how to deal with everything the hospital didn't explain .I had my surgery done this morning and still can't get comfortable enough to sleep.
I've got to have the surgery and my horse has been through alot of wonderful training and I can barely get her saddle on bc of lifting it . I also have been going to gym for 10 years and its killing me bot to be able to do that like I was . I'm going to have the surgery and do what the doctors say. I'm sure no riding for months and no heavy lifting either. It will be winter though so that helps. Who wants to ride horses in the dead of winter right? It's time to cozy up near firrplacs! I'll convince myself that every day is healing to get ready to ride this summer ! Thank you
Thanks so much. Heading into my second surgery - first one re-tore. :(. You have some great tips. Will check into the ice machine. Might keep my "nurse" from making endless ice runs. Lol
I'm almost 7 weeks out and I finally got rid of the shoulder harness. You are absolutely right about the first 3 days. I was given a pain block on the day of surgery but day 2..... OUCH! Day 3 ........ OUCH!. The 4th day was a lot better. My first shower was PAINFUL! I ended up buying a nylon shoulder harness for showers. 3 weeks in I was able to shower and dress by myself. I had a torn supraspinatus and bicep. I never once used ice of any kind. I hope you are doing good.
JoJo White oh man your brave not using ice it got me through many nights! Yeah that first shower was very tough for me too. I had a tough Time with sleeping once i got my sling off at week 4 until week 10. With or without the sling in bed or a chair or couch. Just rough. How are you doing with sleep being at week 7? You had the virtual same surgery as me. Those are what I tore too as well as my labrum tear also. Do your physical therapy. It will pay dividends in the long run:)
@@clarksadventures1526 I tried sleeping in my bed but I had a tough time adjusting the pillows so I went back to our sectional. I have one of those real long pillows (about 6 ft long) and I make a horse shoe and lay against on my left side. For some reason I seem to sleep good if I leave the TV on all night. As far as PT, I've worked out my entire life and the therapist seems to think that gives me a leg up. She states that I'm doing great with my progress. I still go to the gym but I only use the elliptical w/o the arm action. I don't want to rush this I've seen too many people reinjure themselves by doing too much, too soon. Thanks so much for your input I enjoyed your video and take care!
The best post op explanation from all the video's I've watched! Found out today I need the surgery for tares in my "cuff". Only saving grace is I am left handed and the problem is in my right shoulder.
Harvey Memberg well I appreciate that. I’m sorry to hear you have to join the club. Your one of the few I have heard it wasn’t your dominant arm. Just be sure to do your physical therapy even months later it will pay dividends
Thanks for your video, your tips are great! I especially like the one about the ice machine with the condenser. Not having to hassle with getting up to get ice - priceless! Hope you recovered 100%. :-)
I'm having surgery on shoulder for rotator cuff and labrum tears on Sept. 8th. Thanks for the great suggestions in this video. I am also right handed and I've been practicing doing different things with my left hand. Have already thought of some of the things you mention on my own to prepare for, thanks for the confirmation.
Thank you very much for your video it definitely impressed me with what I'm going to be going through here in a couple of weeks I hope all is well and again thank you for your video
Thank you so very much for this video. I will be having surgery soon on my non-dominant arm. I live alone and I have to figure out how to take care of myself and my pets alone. Trying to figure out how I need to set up a space for me and what I need to do to manage my daily life on my own, your suggestions are very very helpful. Thank you very much for this.
Ahliana Byrd oh man I could not even imagine having to do that by myself. Hopefully with it being your non dominant hand that will help but for sure you will need an organization that works well:) I hope you have a successful surgery and don’t forget your physical therapy. It is mandatory for long term recovery. Sorry you had to join the club. Happy healing:)
I’m having surgery next week, non dominant hand also. I live alone too and have 3 cats and a horse. My horse is being cared for so he’s ok. I’m worried about doing things by myself but have been trying to do things one handed for a few weeks since I knew I needed surgery. I hope all goes well for you.
@@shakia000im almost 70 and need this surgery on both arms i have a cat and a bunny. Last year I had hip replacement and did recovery alone but this scares the crap out of me.
@@kandacepatterson7965 please watch as many videos as you can. I honestly had no issues doing things by myself after watching these videos. My biggest challenge was putting tops on because I always put my right arm through the sleeve first so I did struggle a bit doing things back to front. I bought slip on shoes. Cheap tops that I didn’t care if I stretched. Elastic waisted pants etc. I found ways to do things even if it took me 5 times as long as normal. If you can’t do something, post here and I will try to help or maybe someone else can help. You can do this 😊
Thank you so much for ALL the information and tips on how to do things. I will be having rotator cuff and bicep tendon surgery on Thursday 6/25/20 and ALL of this stuff will be useful. thanks again ! Scott Schatzer B'ham, AL
I just learned that I need rotator cuff surgery. Due to holidays and travel plans, I am scheduling for February. Yours is the second video I've watched. Very helpful, informative, and positive! I'm taking notes. Thank you so much for sharing. I figure if it has to be done, do the research and be prepared. I already plan to stock up on quick meals and groceries in general to hopefully last at least a month. I do all the shopping and meal prep. I will have someone with me at least the the first month to 6 weeks. And if you would like to update your stats ... my surgery will, of course, be on my dominate hand!
wildlizzard1 oh man I’m sorry to hear you have to join the club:( you for sure will need help even after the six weeks your pretty limited on lifting things. I struggled sleeping cause my shoulder hurt so bad in the night from when my arm sling came off till week 10.I agree watch the videos and get the notes on people’s advice. If you have any questions just ask. Hope everything goes well with surgery and happy healing:)
I will be 4 weeks on Tuesday. Large tear ... over an onch. I just started therapy a few days ago. Sling for 2 more weeks. We can talk about driving then. I'm doing great. Only had pain briefly when the nerve block wore off after 12 hours. I'm starting to feel the exercises but can't xomplain. Time is going quickly. I don't plan to return to work in the office until April 1. I'm able to do some work from home. Knowledge is power and practice pays off!
@Judy Robinson Hope you are doing well by now. I am at 4 weeks today. I had a large tear and a smaller one therefore doc wants me in the sling two more weeks. PT is slower to progress as well. I have 3 months more to go. I hope I can start to drive a little in two weeks. I've been extremely lucky not to have any pain to complain about. Very lucky.
@@tracey141 Hope you are doing well. One of my recliners has the handle on the right so it was useless. I sleep mostly on the loveseat with a pillow under my right shoulder which is next to the back of the seat for support. I know if I get in the bed I will roll over on it! I slept in the sofa recliner last night which has a left hand lever. Great to stretch out! Good luck to you.
Hopefully you recover soon. I just had surgery for a full thickness tear of my rotator cuff and a SLAP tear. They did not repair the SLAP tear, but pulled my biceps to the bone and fixed the rotator cuff. I feel your pain.
Great information, thanks! My surgery is in 4 days. Damage is to right arm as are the recliner controls. Amazon sells a great wired remote for the controller that installs in less than 2minutes. $12.95. I highly recommend it!
Thank you for posting. I tore my supraspinatus muscle and tendon and also partial tear in subscapularis tendon. I play a ton of tennis and the overhead motion is what caused it. I will follow your advice for a successful recovery. Thx you!
Monroe I appreciate that. I hope things go well for you. Sorry you had to join the club. Work hard at PT and you’ll long term be super glad you did! Happy healing:)
Thank you so much for your video I am 10 days in recovery And you are so right getting your independence back very quickly I have been out for a short walk And yes not too much pain thank God Stiffness in my neck I think this is normal I am sleeping in my bed with lots of pillows And yes the sleeping is hard because I have to wear the sling in bed Iin 5 weeks time I start my physiotherapy And I do have a set of exercises I do 3 times a day while waiting to start physiotherapy
The right hand is my dominant hand but I write with my left. I stumbled across this video because I’m in week one of my rotator cuff surgery and looking for ways to lay down. I don’t have a recliner.
Great video , I'm going in for my dominant arm this upcoming Thursday , I really am happy that I found your video , very helpful information, who would have thought putting on deodorant would now be a challenge,,, I'm totally going to add some things to the grocery list for when I am in recovery like SPRAY on deodorant. Thank You best of luck with your recovery.
Spray deodorant is the best next thing to sliced bread! If you’re still recovering get bars and shampoos that you can use with one hand - and a handheld shower. Mojility packs help too! I’m having surgery next Monday, I hope you have a speedy recovery!
The video is very helpful. I'm having my second rotator cuff surgery on 5/31/2019. My first rotator cuff surgery was on my dominant side was three years ago and it was a complete tear. The upcoming surgery is on my non-dominant side. The tips in the video are very useful.
Craig Luke thank you so much. Sorry you had to join the club......AGAIN!!!! That just stinks to hear. I hope the surgery goes very well and you have a full recovery:)
Craig, how’s your shoulder now with the complete rotator cuff tear. I am having surgery 6/28/22. I was in a car accident that caused the complete tear on left shoulder.
Your injury sounds exactly like mine. I have a full thickness tear of my right rotator cuff. I injured it a year ago doing bench press. Did physical therapy and cortisone shot with no help. Finally got a MRI and my surgery is scheduled for next week. Thanks for the video!
Troy Miller oh man that sucks. Sorry you gotta join the club. Yeah once cortisone doesn’t help it’s time for the next step. That does sound exactly the same. Happy healing man. Wish ya a full recovery
Thanks for the insight. I'm considering surgery on my dominant arm and I'm freaking out about the logistics. I don't know how I will take car of myself and kids and my job and the house and everything else. I should get the surgery, I don't want to be in pain forever. But I can't handle months of down time
The ice machine I got from the local medical supply store. It was a rental. In hindsight I should have bought one. They are called cold therapy machines and you can buy them on amazon. The one I rented you didn’t have to fill with ice or frozen water bottles but I would have liked to have used it for longer so would highly recommend just buying one outright. My arm sling is a Breg sling shot 3 and is an awesome arm sling. I got that from my dr. If your dr doesn’t use that one they can order it before your surgery. These two pieces are really two of the most vital in your early stages of recovery so that your arm is properly supported with a great sling so it hurts less and is comfortable and the cold therapy machine to lower inflammation and also to help with any reference muscles that are overcompensating for your shoulder and arm not working while it’s healing. Hope this helps and good luck with your journey:) I hope you heal back to 100% make physical therapy #1 in your life for months after it will pay back in dividends to long term healing:)
@Clarksadventures, I was given an ice machine, military facility. After hearing about yours, I told my husband we just need to get to small bottles, fill them with water, freeze, and then use them in the machine instead of always making ice. Again, thank you so much for sharing!
Hey there, it's been a while since your post, but I'm hoping you can share the manufacturer and model name of the ice machine you used? I'd love to buy or rent one like the one you used, where you didn't need to fuss with the ice much, but I'm having a heck of a time finding one that doesn't require the use of ice or ice reservoirs.
Thanks. Great video. I am in week 3 so far. Waiting for therapy to start. Several torn muscles. Gets real bored sitting around alot. Supposed to be 12-16 weeks recovery time.
Donny's Variety Channel Creative Creations oh man sorry to hear that. Yeah if you’ve got several torn you’ll be every bit of 12-16 plus months of strengthening unfortunately. Do your PT. Happy healing:)
I'm looking for the cold therapy machine you used. I cannot find it online because I don't know the brand name? Are you not allowed to reply with the brand name because I saw another post a week ago asking the same question? Also, I've looked for the specific sling you are wearing and even with the names of the sling prominently displayed, when searching it doesn't come up?
Andrew Snyder I will find out the name of the machine. They would only rent that one. They wouldn’t sell it to me. I will call the Med supply place and find out what the name of it is cause it worked awesome!!! The sling is a Breg slingshot 3 and it was awesome also. Highly recommend.
@@clarksadventures1526 If you cannot find the name of the machine, maybe you could give me the name and phone number of the place you rented it from, and I could talk to them direct?
@@clarksadventures1526 Glad to see your doing well enough to go to Disney. Still waiting for the name and number of the place you rented your cold machine from.
Andrew Snyder alright the name of the company is orthotech and their number is 515-255-0952 and I would highly recommend getting the one you can buy and put frozen water bottles in it vs the one you rent because you will need it for longer than it is affordable to rent. I think to rent it’s like $200 /month or buy one you can put frozen water bottles in with water for like $125. Sorry I took so long to get info to you. I apologize. If you can’t find the right sling call DMOS Des Moines orthopedic surgeons and they could tell you more. They provided that when I had the surgery done. I highly recommend that sling. It is very nice. The sling is a Breg slingshot 3. Any other questions let me know. Hope it goes well for you. Happy healing:)
As a single mom with no family....I am having the surgery in 2 weeks. This was very helpful. My surgeon did not mention the ice machine. I am going to call a medical supply place tomorrow. Also get a recliner. How did you keep your arm slinged in the shower?
I think your video was very helpful, inspiring, and makes me quite not as nervous about getting my shoulder repaired. I'm having my surgery for my rotator cuff tear on the 13th, in 5 days. I've been on disability for several years and I do have good insurance including a good HMO, BUT my insurance won't cover my cold water therapy machine. I live on a fixed income and I've searched for a used one but with no luck. But, I made several gallon size ice packs with a homemade recipe, it's a soft gel and doesn't freeze solid. I need something that can conform to my shoulder. Mostly what I wanted to say was, I'm a big baby when it comes to pain and I guess I was imagining all sorts of horrible thoughts about the pain. Then I think of the pain I've been enduring the past couple of years and I can't imagine a pain worse than that. Like you, I can't raise my arm up and it's difficult dealing with the pain just by doing ordinary things. The bad thing to is, it's my right shoulder and I'm right-handed. LOL So, I've been practicing doing things with my left hand. I have a loving husband that is going to be there to help me with whatever I need, I just don't like feeling like a burden or dependent on someone. I like what you said about being as independent as possible, I think that's is GREAT to have that attitude! That's how I want to be and hope that I can be. It seems for a long time all I've talked about and complained about his the pain in my shoulder, so no matter how long the recovery, I can't wait to live with NO pain in my shoulder! Sorry, this comment was so long. I liked your video a lot. I hope all is continuing to go well for you. God Bless.
Artistic Chaos Cindy Kelley thank you for the kind words. How has your recovery been going? Be sure to continue physical therapy it will pay dividends in the long run for strength and range of motion. There is definitely a mental game you have to play because as your recovering not everyday is easy so think about the long run and that your hurting today to feel great down the road. I am very independent as well and struggle asking for help but this is a time in life to have help and don’t be afraid to ask for it while continuing to attempt to do the things you are capable of doing. Hope your surgery was successful and your recovering nicely:)
@@clarksadventures1526 my surgery went great. I've been doing my own physical therapy because June 2nd I had a heart attack and had a stent put in an artery. I'm recovering well on both surgeries. My shoulder feels SO much better than it has in years!
Artistic Chaos Cindy Kelley oh my goodness. You’ve been going through a lot then. I hope you recover from both completely:) stay strong and i know you’ll overcome each. So glad to hear that your arm is feeling better:)
Wize Gal2020 oh yeah the ice machine is life saving. Do the physical therapy to break up that scar tissue to get it back to normal:) sorry you had to join the club. Lean on everyone you can while recovering. Happy healing:)
Absolutely excellent video and I cannot thank you enough. I'm meeting with the surgeon tomorrow. Will be having a complete shoulder rebuild. I am very independent and so the hardest thing is having to rely on help. One thing not covered was showering and keeping everything dry. Any helpful suggestions?
I’m on day 4 and my shoulder doesn’t bother me much...it’s my arm that’s tired of being in the sling ..today I see some swelling on it Mahn makes me more angry...can’t get enough sleep either... I can’t even remember when & how I got injured..maybe because I brushed it aside thinking it was just a minor shoulder pain and will go away but it didn’t...what have I got myself into is all I’m thinking right now .
MIne is my non-dominant hand. I tore my cuff 6-7 years ago during a swim team practice (butterfly stroke). I pulled my left arm forward a couple milliseconds before my right arm and I felt a snap. My coach was so angry because the girls kept getting injured. I had gotten out of the water and she said if I didn't get back in I was off the team. I was 12 at the time so I followed her directions and swam on that arm for another week or so before going to the doctor. I was in a sling for 6 months and have had PT every year since then. I'm now 19 and have been told I'll need to get it fixed.
Sorry to hear about your story…as a young 12 years old you must be in great pain to undergone such bully coach. This is the reason we must listen to our young kids when they’re telling the truth
This was a great video.. It eased my mind allot. I"m having a torn rotator cuff surgery on my right (dominant) shoulder this Friday, 2/1. The deodorant thing was awesome, as was the shaving recommendation and the shower accessories...I had those for my back surgery. Should have kept them for this surgery! lol...although I didn't know I was going to hurt my shoulder 5 months ago...Anyway, good tips and tricks. If you have tips on using the toilet and what comes with that, please reach out to me personally....dont know that everyone will want to see or hear that one! Thanks again!
Nancy Harless haha well we all have to use the bathroom. Unfortunately you just have to get used to wiping with your opposite hand. You’ll adjust with it as you go:) it does suck but fortunately it is temporary:) I liked being independent and doing what I was capable of doing so i liked having the tools that allowed me to be successful on my own. Fortunately all you threw out were not expensive items so hopefully not a big deal to get again. Sorry you had to join the club. Happy healing. Wish you the best:)
I am having this surgery soon and you mentioned something’s I haven’t thought about . A question for you how about personal hygiene, toilet issues and suggestions or heads up . Thanks
I know this is a response eight months after but yes the pain pills did help through the first three days. My surgery was on Friday morning and I took mine every four hours until very early Sunday morning and then decided to stop. Tylenol and my rotation of ice packs did just fine at that point. I also slept a whole lot with the help of the pain pills. It was definitely a marathon sleeping two hours off for a half hour or so sleeping two hours up for a half hour etc. The arthroscopic surgery was also a blessing I believe.
Thank you I have surgery going up .. I have a thick Full Tear of the tendon Dr said I pulled it off the bone .. Ant advice you want to give me I’m open Om a Strong 63 year old women .. Thank you ✌️☮️
Hi Brody. I had surgery over a year ago. The recovery was very slow and VERY painful. Going back to the surgeon, after a year, I told him I was still in pain. He told me it might be scar tissue etc etc. I feel like I'm intruding when I see him. I still have pain when I'm driving, walking or just out of the blue! Could I have re injured it? I don't know what to do! It's so painful!!!!!!
This was great, so informative, thankyou. My surgery is scheduled for 13th Aug this year, which is 2020, so 5 weeks' time. I'm having a bone spur and rotator cuff repair just like you. Scared about the dressing & undressing bit. Not looking forward to removing the sling to do it. You are right on point about the thing you said regarding the dominant hand. Like you, I am right-handed and the surgery will be on my right shoulder. Ironic huh? How are you 2 years on from your surgery????
What kind of pain meds did you get for the first week ? I had a Total Knee Replacement and I was given Deladed 4 mg was a lifesaver the VA is not good on pain management..I'm not looking forward to this
Had my surgery Tuesday and today is Saturday. Pain a lot better today so took a shower and it felt great but this stupid brace is impossible to get back on. I hate you donjoy. Took 4 nurses to get it on and it was never right to start with. Driving me nuts.
Tore my rotator cuff playing baseball and I’m getting surgery, I’m nervous due to the fact I can’t take pills so I’m hoping the pain isn’t to severe after surgery..
I had my surgery 2 days ago (June 22, 2021). I live alone without help so I did a lot of pre-surgery prep. I broke the seals on water bottles and put them in the fridge. I prepped food and put it in easy open containers and other things. It makes recovery a lot easier. The hospital gave me a reacher. I put all my liquids (body wash, shampoo, etc. in pump bottles).
Tamara, thank you for your advice. It’s all those little things that I’m freaking out about that I’m going to be totally unable to do. Great thinking ahead on your part! I tore my cuff on my dominant side and I’m so angry at myself bc I did it by rushing to move heavy stuff-much heavier than I probably should’ve. But I had a storage unit that I didn’t want to have to pay for another month. So I rushed in 4 days with an old dolly and at the end, I felt that pulling pain in my shoulder but figured I just overworked it from all the moving…no such luck. I woke up a few days later in so much pain I had to go to the hospital and that started the whole thing. First the xrays that showed nothing & now I’m scheduled for an MRI this week and then I’ll see the Orthopedic doctor etc. I’m just so angry at myself for being so naive about hurting myself! Now I would’ve gladly paid for another 2 or even 3 months for the storage unit to take my time and move my stuff! But oh well hindsight is always 20/20 right?
Thank you so much again for taking your time to post. I hope you’re doing well and healing well! Take care
@@binaryfairy4197 don't beat yourself up about what you cannot change. What's done is done. Focus on getting better. You've learned from your mistake. That's the important thing. I am doing great!!! It's been almost 2 weeks and God has blessed my recovery!
How are you doing now that it’s been 11 months?
Thanks for this video ❤️ I'm having surgery very soon and I'm freaking out not because of surgery but because it's my dominate arm. I have a16 year old disabled son in a wheelchair and it's gonna be really tough and I worry about taking care of him. So stressed out. Prayers needed PLEASE 🙌💗
Julie Wyatt oh my goodness you have prayers coming to you however you are gonna need some help for both of you. Seriously need to call in favors. This is not a little deal. Please find some help for both of you even if it’s for just some simple things. That is a tough situation and wish you both nothing but the best. Happy healing.
How did you do? I’m wondering if you did have help?
Just wanted to say thanks for the great video. I have been bing watching these types of videos due to upcoming surgery and yours is definitely very helpful. Hope you found your way back quickly to an independent lifestyle. I have my 27 year old daughter who will be helping me through the healing process. Also you were the first video to actually show the shoulder after surgery. That was rad.
Thanks again 😊🤙
❤️
I hope your surgery went well and you got help with your son.🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Prior to my surgery on Oct 4 i watched at least 100 videos about the surgery and those made by patients. Lots of great information all over. I must say yours was one of the most helpful as you stress concentrating on what we CAN DO after the procedure, not what CANNOT do.
oldgiapetto great to hear from you and happy healing. Your probably a few weeks in now with your shoulder. Hope your finding lots of new things each day your able to do. One of my biggest issues was not being able to do all I wanted to do was find things that I could do. Keep up your physical therapy even 6 months I continue and am reaping good benefits from exercising my arm daily. I still have minor issues too but each week you find yourself doing something you couldn’t do the week before and poof suddenly you can. I can say after 6 months it really does take a year or better to be fully back but if your doing physical therapy I really feel like I’ll be there:) happy healing. Let me know how your doing:) hope your feeling better. You CAN DO IT:)
I completed my surgery for rotator cuff last week. Your video was extremely helpful in getting me prepared, and helping me through this first week. So much appreciation for you taking the time to share your ideas and tips for making things easier after the surgery!
My husband just had this surgery and he can not sleep in bed. Once this one heals he has to get his other arm done. Great information!!! Thank You so much!
It took me about 6 months before I really could sleep in bed again. It just seemed to take forever to not wake up in pain cause I put my arm in a weird position
You're right... finding your independence is key. Wish I saw this before my surgery.
Yeah if you can figure out some independence it becomes easier faster for sure. It was very key to me for sure:)
Thank you so much for this video. Yours covers more than any I’ve found. Those little tips will come in handy for sure, especially the phone charger and toothpaste for me.
Hello from Australia. I’m 85 and in day two of Rotator Cuff recovery. Thanks for your very helpful video, it is difficult not to try and do “normal “ things, and I realise I should NOT even think about it. Your advice was meant for me . I will change my attitude of mind, and let healing take its course.
Eric
Eric----Being close to 80 y/o, I am glad to see that another 'getting on in years' has had this surgery. My surgeon has told me that at my age and being diabetic, recovery could be "iffy". I hope you are doing well with a changed attitude of mind. [P.S., in 1973, I climbed Ayers Rock].
@@suzanfine707hello dear. How are you doing? My dad is 80 and is diabetic had surgery 3 days ago. The pain is unbelivable. How do u feel now?
My first advice for your father is i@@mojzam4786
I just had my 11th surgery on my shoulders since 2015 from a accident underground in the coal mines with 2 more left to go. I tore rotator cuffs, labrums, bicep tendon ruptures, and flexor tendons in my elbows. By trial and error I learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast!!!
ZX14R BUSA KILLER holy crap that’s a lot of surgeries in such a short period!!! So sorry to hear that. Your one of the few of us that could get your arm out that quick. I know I had no ability to do it. I hope with all those surgeries your at least starting to feel put back together. Happy healing:)
@@clarksadventures1526 Thanks a lot! I think so many so fast has really screwed me. I agree with you on that!
OMG was it scary taking the sling off?
'learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast' Doesn't that go against doc orders? Are you sore even when it wears off? How long was your recovery time?
Thank you. I’m on day 4 post reverse shoulder replacement. I’ve watched lots of videos, but you had some tips I hadn’t heard before. I wish I had rented that ice machine. I bought one that turned out to be defective, so now I’ve just got ice packs.
I'm getting ready to have this surgery and am alone, so glad I found your video. I can plan ahead now. I'm really scared and I'm 64 years old so say a prayer for me!
A little late but done. How are you doing now, Teresa?
Thank you for the tips, I'm having surgery in 2 weeks. Your video and tips will help quite a bit, as I was wondering how I would be able to take care of myself, as I live alone.
Thank you. My surgery is in 10 days. I’m sharing with my family to help them understand what to expect.
I highly recommend you buy a back scratcher! They are heavenly when you can’t reach an itch.
I only took Tylenol otc 1000mg/6hrs. On a timer.. and had cryo cuff shoulder ice machine. First 5 days were a ton of shoulder fireworks... But that intense pain did subside after 5 days for me. I am on 2 month anniversary today. Doing pretty good. Still at night in bed it's not perfect but manageable for sleep. Just have to find that sweet spot position 😉
This is a great help, thanks for sharing!!❤
Thank you for this video.. I am calling the Orthopedics tomorrow to make my first visit appointment and hopefully get my surgery scheduled.. I have a full tear of the main ligament and partial tears in the remaining ligaments. 😬. Your video opened my eyes to things I will face thank you for that.
Craig
Thanks for recording this! I’m having surgery in 2 weeks. I appreciated the practical advice and hearing about how I’m likely to feel those first few days. 👍😊
Mike Oliver sorry your having to join the club. I hope all goes well with surgery and healing be sure to physical therapy even months and months later to feel better. Even now if I’m now doing my exercises everyday it tightens up and hurts but if I do my exercises I feel pretty good
I live alone and have to have this done so your video very helpful. Thank you.
Having had rotator cuff surgery on both shoulders and having a reverse shoulder replacement coming up in two weeks. All of your tips would have been helpful on my first surgery. I’m sure your information will be very helpful to other people. Another suggestion I have is to get a grabber tool from a Medical Supply store. In addition, I made a great tool that I used with my last surgery. Take a fairly thick dowel rod and screw a large cup hook into one end and a rubber covered clothes wall hook on the other end. this works well with pushing off socks and shoes well as grabbing clothing on the floor. The ice machine is INVALUABLE! Thanks for sharing. Heal well and quickly!
Thank you so much for spending the time to put this together. I have surgery next week and it is very helpful to get advice from an actual patient.
Scheduling my surgery tomorrow and this was so helpful in easing my anxiety about all this. 🙏🏾
Thank you; your video was positive. I am getting rotator cuff surgery in 4 days and my story is close to yours.
My hubby is getting surgery on his shoulder and this has helped me so much to get a better idea of what I should buy to make his recovery much smoother. Thank you so much!
Savannah Shannon-Roberts oh I’m so glad it helped. I hope he has a great recovery:) stay on him on his physical therapy. Don’t let him slack on that it pays dividends in the long run!!!:)
I just had my 11th surgery on my shoulders since 2015 from a accident underground in the coal mines with 2 more left to go. I tore rotator cuffs, labrums, bicep tendon ruptures, and flexor tendons in my elbows. By trial and error I learned to take my arms out of a sling as soon as the nerve block wears off. Recovery is super fast!!!
@@GhostHunterWV how are you now?
Thanks for all the helpfull tips.
Great presentation.
Thanks for the video. i had my surgery earlier today.. oooouuuuccchhhh! Great tips- I'm glad I saw this before. Thanks again
Thnx for the tips. i have my surgery next week and have an idea of what to expect.
Tomorrow is two weeks since my surgery. I love his cold therapy machine. I found for me the rotation of the 4 ice packs we already had in the freezer were so nice. That machine looked so nice. Kind of wish I saw this video before my surgery, but I’ve done ok. No pain meds after three days for me. Then it was just Tylenol and ice packs. Thanks to my doc for prescribing stool softeners. Bowels started working on day three again. Sleeping has sucked. Keep up the positive thoughts. Next thing you know you’ll be at your two week follow up with your surgeon.
@@deafduckracing2462 I'm at two weeks tomorrow and my shoulder has been the least of my problems. Once my nerve block wore off, i had a little issue breathing. I was told this might happen and it would go away. Well, it didn't and to complicate it every time i took a normal breath i had very bad muscle spasms in my torso which killed me. After a handful of days of thinking i will go away tomorrow and it didn't and not being able to take the pain, i finally called my doc. she had me come and sent me to the hospital. Seems my breathing issues were caused by blood clots in my lungs from the surgery. I'm on the mend now and feeling good.
Very helpful, I have surgery soon and I am dreading some of the things you discussed, you gave me great ideas
I’m feeling pretty good. I still work my shoulder out a lot for physical therapy and I think that is most of my success. Good luck to you with your surgery:)
@ClarksAdventures, thank you so much for all of your advice and information about the post op from the surgery. I, like you and most people, tore my rotator cuff on my dominant side. I did it while hurrying to move boxes and bins out of my storage unit. I had just 4 days to move a bunch of stuff and I’m so angry at myself after the fact bc I was rushing to get the stuff moved so I wouldn’t have to pay for another month. Anyways I was almost done with it all and was moving things on a dolly and I suddenly felt that pulling-pain in my right shoulder but kept on working to finish up. But as we all know, hindsight is 20/20, and now I’d be more than willing to pay for 2 or 3 more months instead of having to go through surgery! Your video was really helpful especially about the ice pack machine! I’m going to definitely ask my doctor about it. I live alone and I’m stressing about things like laundry, cleaning, washing my hair-guess I’ll have to call in some favors from friends! I won’t be able to drive so I’ll have to have my groceries delivered. Luckily I have a couple of great neighbors who have volunteered to help drive me or go get me something I need immediately. Thank you again & I’m glad to read that you’re doing well. Take care!
Great info! Going in for rotator cuff surgery in about 2hrs. This helps a ton! Thanks!
Very good suggestions
Awesome video bro, I really appreciate it. I'm having surgery on March 8th and not really looking forward to it
Thank you for the video. I’m having surgery on my Rotator on May, 2020 and I’m not looking forward to it. You eased my mind a little thank you!! Take care.
Thank you. I needed to know how to deal with everything the hospital didn't explain .I had my surgery done this morning and still can't get comfortable enough to sleep.
I've got to have the surgery and my horse has been through alot of wonderful training and I can barely get her saddle on bc of lifting it . I also have been going to gym for 10 years and its killing me bot to be able to do that like I was . I'm going to have the surgery and do what the doctors say. I'm sure no riding for months and no heavy lifting either. It will be winter though so that helps. Who wants to ride horses in the dead of winter right? It's time to cozy up near firrplacs! I'll convince myself that every day is healing to get ready to ride this summer ! Thank you
Thank you SO much for making and sharing this video! I’ll be having my surgery in a few days, and I’ve learned a lot from watching this!
Peace!
Thanks so much. Heading into my second surgery - first one re-tore. :(. You have some great tips. Will check into the ice machine. Might keep my "nurse" from making endless ice runs. Lol
Omg how did you re tear? Im 70 and so scred to have this cant imagine it failing.
So glad to have found your video, thank you for all the info.
I'm almost 7 weeks out and I finally got rid of the shoulder harness. You are absolutely right about the first 3 days. I was given a pain block on the day of surgery but day 2..... OUCH! Day 3 ........ OUCH!. The 4th day was a lot better. My first shower was PAINFUL! I ended up buying a nylon shoulder harness for showers. 3 weeks in I was able to shower and dress by myself. I had a torn supraspinatus and bicep. I never once used ice of any kind. I hope you are doing good.
JoJo White oh man your brave not using ice it got me through many nights! Yeah that first shower was very tough for me too. I had a tough Time with sleeping once i got my sling off at week 4 until week 10. With or without the sling in bed or a chair or couch. Just rough. How are you doing with sleep being at week 7? You had the virtual same surgery as me. Those are what I tore too as well as my labrum tear also. Do your physical therapy. It will pay dividends in the long run:)
@@clarksadventures1526 I tried sleeping in my bed but I had a tough time adjusting the pillows so I went back to our sectional. I have one of those real long pillows (about 6 ft long) and I make a horse shoe and lay against on my left side. For some reason I seem to sleep good if I leave the TV on all night. As far as PT, I've worked out my entire life and the therapist seems to think that gives me a leg up. She states that I'm doing great with my progress. I still go to the gym but I only use the elliptical w/o the arm action. I don't want to rush this I've seen too many people reinjure themselves by doing too much, too soon. Thanks so much for your input I enjoyed your video and take care!
Thank for the great advice, i will apply it before and after my surgery.🤗🇨🇦
The best post op explanation from all the video's I've watched! Found out today I need the surgery for tares in my "cuff". Only saving grace is I am left handed and the problem is in my right shoulder.
Harvey Memberg well I appreciate that. I’m sorry to hear you have to join the club. Your one of the few I have heard it wasn’t your dominant arm. Just be sure to do your physical therapy even months later it will pay dividends
Thanks for the great info! My surgery is tomorrow morning.
I hope everything went good with your surgery,I get mine Monday. Rotator cuff and bicep tenodesis,not gonna be fun.
@WillSr70 12 hours post op. The nerve block is starting to wear off some. Have to keep ahead of the pain with the meds.
Thanks for your video, your tips are great! I especially like the one about the ice machine with the condenser. Not having to hassle with getting up to get ice - priceless! Hope you recovered 100%. :-)
Great information things I wouldn’t have thought of until after surgery
cdmec oh I’m glad it helped. Hopefully it helped to make your recovery easier. Sorry you had to join the club. Happy healing:)
Great tips! I'm on week five. Can't wait to drive!
I got lucky. I’m left handed. But I think you’re right about most of these surgeries are on the right. At least the ones that are making videos
Hydrocodone was my pain med and it's been awesome it really helps
Stephanie Pike me too
Did u get any side effects?
I'm having surgery on shoulder for rotator cuff and labrum tears on Sept. 8th. Thanks for the great suggestions in this video. I am also right handed and I've been practicing doing different things with my left hand. Have already thought of some of the things you mention on my own to prepare for, thanks for the confirmation.
Thank you very much for your video it definitely impressed me with what I'm going to be going through here in a couple of weeks I hope all is well and again thank you for your video
Thank you so very much for this video. I will be having surgery soon on my non-dominant arm. I live alone and I have to figure out how to take care of myself and my pets alone. Trying to figure out how I need to set up a space for me and what I need to do to manage my daily life on my own, your suggestions are very very helpful. Thank you very much for this.
Ahliana Byrd oh man I could not even imagine having to do that by myself. Hopefully with it being your non dominant hand that will help but for sure you will need an organization that works well:) I hope you have a successful surgery and don’t forget your physical therapy. It is mandatory for long term recovery. Sorry you had to join the club. Happy healing:)
I’m having surgery next week, non dominant hand also. I live alone too and have 3 cats and a horse. My horse is being cared for so he’s ok. I’m worried about doing things by myself but have been trying to do things one handed for a few weeks since I knew I needed surgery. I hope all goes well for you.
@@shakia000im almost 70 and need this surgery on both arms i have a cat and a bunny. Last year I had hip replacement and did recovery alone but this scares the crap out of me.
@@kandacepatterson7965 please watch as many videos as you can. I honestly had no issues doing things by myself after watching these videos. My biggest challenge was putting tops on because I always put my right arm through the sleeve first so I did struggle a bit doing things back to front. I bought slip on shoes. Cheap tops that I didn’t care if I stretched. Elastic waisted pants etc. I found ways to do things even if it took me 5 times as long as normal. If you can’t do something, post here and I will try to help or maybe someone else can help. You can do this 😊
Thank you so much for ALL the information and tips on how to do things. I will be having rotator cuff and bicep tendon surgery on Thursday 6/25/20 and ALL of this stuff will be useful. thanks again ! Scott Schatzer B'ham, AL
I just learned that I need rotator cuff surgery. Due to holidays and travel plans, I am scheduling for February. Yours is the second video I've watched. Very helpful, informative, and positive! I'm taking notes. Thank you so much for sharing. I figure if it has to be done, do the research and be prepared. I already plan to stock up on quick meals and groceries in general to hopefully last at least a month. I do all the shopping and meal prep. I will have someone with me at least the the first month to 6 weeks. And if you would like to update your stats ... my surgery will, of course, be on my dominate hand!
wildlizzard1 oh man I’m sorry to hear you have to join the club:( you for sure will need help even after the six weeks your pretty limited on lifting things. I struggled sleeping cause my shoulder hurt so bad in the night from when my arm sling came off till week 10.I agree watch the videos and get the notes on people’s advice. If you have any questions just ask. Hope everything goes well with surgery and happy healing:)
You will be fine. Mine was last Friday. Just rest, and get lots of help from family. The only thing is sleeping upright😑
I will be 4 weeks on Tuesday. Large tear ... over an onch. I just started therapy a few days ago. Sling for 2 more weeks. We can talk about driving then. I'm doing great. Only had pain briefly when the nerve block wore off after 12 hours. I'm starting to feel the exercises but can't xomplain. Time is going quickly. I don't plan to return to work in the office until April 1. I'm able to do some work from home.
Knowledge is power and practice pays off!
@Judy Robinson Hope you are doing well by now. I am at 4 weeks today. I had a large tear and a smaller one therefore doc wants me in the sling two more weeks. PT is slower to progress as well. I have 3 months more to go. I hope I can start to drive a little in two weeks. I've been extremely lucky not to have any pain to complain about. Very lucky.
@@tracey141 Hope you are doing well. One of my recliners has the handle on the right so it was useless. I sleep mostly on the loveseat with a pillow under my right shoulder which is next to the back of the seat for support. I know if I get in the bed I will roll over on it! I slept in the sofa recliner last night which has a left hand lever. Great to stretch out! Good luck to you.
Hopefully you recover soon. I just had surgery for a full thickness tear of my rotator cuff and a SLAP tear. They did not repair the SLAP tear, but pulled my biceps to the bone and fixed the rotator cuff. I feel your pain.
Thanks so much for the information. Having surgery next month. 🙂
Great information, thanks! My surgery is in 4 days. Damage is to right arm as are the recliner controls. Amazon sells a great wired remote for the controller that installs in less than 2minutes. $12.95. I highly recommend it!
Great video. Thanks. Oh, I messed up my left shoulder and I'm right handed. Something was in my right hand so I tried to catch myself with my left.
Great into : just had my second cuff surgery this week
Thank you for posting. I tore my supraspinatus muscle and tendon and also partial tear in subscapularis tendon. I play a ton of tennis and the overhead motion is what caused it. I will follow your advice for a successful recovery. Thx you!
Day 1 after surgery, Thanks for the tips
It was a lot of help.
Mario Castillo oh your welcome! I wish you a great and strong recovery!! Do your physical therapy it’s the key to getting better and stronger:)
Very informative. I'm facing surgery as well
Same here, surgery date is May 16th.
great vid buddy, week one for me. good advice, truly appreciate it
Monroe I appreciate that. I hope things go well for you. Sorry you had to join the club. Work hard at PT and you’ll long term be super glad you did! Happy healing:)
Thank you so much for your video
I am 10 days in recovery
And you are so right getting your independence back very quickly
I have been out for a short walk
And yes not too much pain thank God
Stiffness in my neck I think this is normal
I am sleeping in my bed with lots of pillows
And yes the sleeping is hard because I have to wear the sling in bed
Iin 5 weeks time I start my physiotherapy
And I do have a set of exercises I do 3 times a day while waiting to start physiotherapy
This was very helpful!
The right hand is my dominant hand but I write with my left. I stumbled across this video because I’m in week one of my rotator cuff surgery and looking for ways to lay down. I don’t have a recliner.
This is such a long road! I am 6 months out and still have tightness and weakness. Definitely some progress but still in PT
Great video , I'm going in for my dominant arm this upcoming Thursday , I really am happy that I found your video , very helpful information, who would have thought putting on deodorant would now be a challenge,,, I'm totally going to add some things to the grocery list for when I am in recovery like SPRAY on deodorant. Thank You best of luck with your recovery.
Spray deodorant is the best next thing to sliced bread! If you’re still recovering get bars and shampoos that you can use with one hand - and a handheld shower. Mojility packs help too!
I’m having surgery next Monday, I hope you have a speedy recovery!
The video is very helpful. I'm having my second rotator cuff surgery on 5/31/2019. My first rotator cuff surgery was on my dominant side was three years ago and it was a complete tear. The upcoming surgery is on my non-dominant side. The tips in the video are very useful.
Craig Luke thank you so much. Sorry you had to join the club......AGAIN!!!! That just stinks to hear. I hope the surgery goes very well and you have a full recovery:)
Craig, how’s your shoulder now with the complete rotator cuff tear. I am having surgery 6/28/22. I was in a car accident that caused the complete tear on left shoulder.
Your injury sounds exactly like mine. I have a full thickness tear of my right rotator cuff. I injured it a year ago doing bench press. Did physical therapy and cortisone shot with no help. Finally got a MRI and my surgery is scheduled for next week. Thanks for the video!
Troy Miller oh man that sucks. Sorry you gotta join the club. Yeah once cortisone doesn’t help it’s time for the next step. That does sound exactly the same. Happy healing man. Wish ya a full recovery
Thanks for the insight. I'm considering surgery on my dominant arm and I'm freaking out about the logistics. I don't know how I will take car of myself and kids and my job and the house and everything else. I should get the surgery, I don't want to be in pain forever. But I can't handle months of down time
Thanx for sharing 😀
Thanks for the tips. Thanks for stretching a 4 minute video into 20 minutes
I've never seen a shoulder brace like that, they usually go around the neck and hurt
What is the name of the ice machine that you used after your rotator cuff surgery? I am having mine next month and would like to get it.
Thank you. I have sugery in 19 days
The ice machine I got from the local medical supply store. It was a rental. In hindsight I should have bought one. They are called cold therapy machines and you can buy them on amazon. The one I rented you didn’t have to fill with ice or frozen water bottles but I would have liked to have used it for longer so would highly recommend just buying one outright. My arm sling is a Breg sling shot 3 and is an awesome arm sling. I got that from my dr. If your dr doesn’t use that one they can order it before your surgery. These two pieces are really two of the most vital in your early stages of recovery so that your arm is properly supported with a great sling so it hurts less and is comfortable and the cold therapy machine to lower inflammation and also to help with any reference muscles that are overcompensating for your shoulder and arm not working while it’s healing. Hope this helps and good luck with your journey:) I hope you heal back to 100% make physical therapy #1 in your life for months after it will pay back in dividends to long term healing:)
@Clarksadventures, I was given an ice machine, military facility. After hearing about yours, I told my husband we just need to get to small bottles, fill them with water, freeze, and then use them in the machine instead of always making ice. Again, thank you so much for sharing!
Hey there, it's been a while since your post, but I'm hoping you can share the manufacturer and model name of the ice machine you used? I'd love to buy or rent one like the one you used, where you didn't need to fuss with the ice much, but I'm having a heck of a time finding one that doesn't require the use of ice or ice reservoirs.
Thanks. Great video. I am in week 3 so far. Waiting for therapy to start. Several torn muscles. Gets real bored sitting around alot. Supposed to be 12-16 weeks recovery time.
Donny's Variety Channel Creative Creations oh man sorry to hear that. Yeah if you’ve got several torn you’ll be every bit of 12-16 plus months of strengthening unfortunately. Do your PT. Happy healing:)
I'm looking for the cold therapy machine you used. I cannot find it online because I don't know the brand name? Are you not allowed to reply with the brand name because I saw another post a week ago asking the same question? Also, I've looked for the specific sling you are wearing and even with the names of the sling prominently displayed, when searching it doesn't come up?
Andrew Snyder I will find out the name of the machine. They would only rent that one. They wouldn’t sell it to me. I will call the Med supply place and find out what the name of it is cause it worked awesome!!! The sling is a Breg slingshot 3 and it was awesome also. Highly recommend.
@@clarksadventures1526 Thank you, much appreciated!
@@clarksadventures1526 If you cannot find the name of the machine, maybe you could give me the name and phone number of the place you rented it from, and I could talk to them direct?
@@clarksadventures1526 Glad to see your doing well enough to go to Disney. Still waiting for the name and number of the place you rented your cold machine from.
Andrew Snyder alright the name of the company is orthotech and their number is 515-255-0952 and I would highly recommend getting the one you can buy and put frozen water bottles in it vs the one you rent because you will need it for longer than it is affordable to rent. I think to rent it’s like $200 /month or buy one you can put frozen water bottles in with water for like $125. Sorry I took so long to get info to you. I apologize. If you can’t find the right sling call DMOS Des Moines orthopedic surgeons and they could tell you more. They provided that when I had the surgery done. I highly recommend that sling. It is very nice. The sling is a Breg slingshot 3. Any other questions let me know. Hope it goes well for you. Happy healing:)
As a single mom with no family....I am having the surgery in 2 weeks. This was very helpful. My surgeon did not mention the ice machine. I am going to call a medical supply place tomorrow.
Also get a recliner.
How did you keep your arm slinged in the shower?
Thanx for video i am wating for a surgery can you update abt your curtent situation
I think your video was very helpful, inspiring, and makes me quite not as nervous about getting my shoulder repaired. I'm having my surgery for my rotator cuff tear on the 13th, in 5 days. I've been on disability for several years and I do have good insurance including a good HMO, BUT my insurance won't cover my cold water therapy machine. I live on a fixed income and I've searched for a used one but with no luck. But, I made several gallon size ice packs with a homemade recipe, it's a soft gel and doesn't freeze solid. I need something that can conform to my shoulder. Mostly what I wanted to say was, I'm a big baby when it comes to pain and I guess I was imagining all sorts of horrible thoughts about the pain. Then I think of the pain I've been enduring the past couple of years and I can't imagine a pain worse than that. Like you, I can't raise my arm up and it's difficult dealing with the pain just by doing ordinary things. The bad thing to is, it's my right shoulder and I'm right-handed. LOL So, I've been practicing doing things with my left hand. I have a loving husband that is going to be there to help me with whatever I need, I just don't like feeling like a burden or dependent on someone. I like what you said about being as independent as possible, I think that's is GREAT to have that attitude! That's how I want to be and hope that I can be. It seems for a long time all I've talked about and complained about his the pain in my shoulder, so no matter how long the recovery, I can't wait to live with NO pain in my shoulder! Sorry, this comment was so long. I liked your video a lot. I hope all is continuing to go well for you. God Bless.
Artistic Chaos Cindy Kelley thank you for the kind words. How has your recovery been going? Be sure to continue physical therapy it will pay dividends in the long run for strength and range of motion. There is definitely a mental game you have to play because as your recovering not everyday is easy so think about the long run and that your hurting today to feel great down the road. I am very independent as well and struggle asking for help but this is a time in life to have help and don’t be afraid to ask for it while continuing to attempt to do the things you are capable of doing. Hope your surgery was successful and your recovering nicely:)
@@clarksadventures1526 my surgery went great. I've been doing my own physical therapy because June 2nd I had a heart attack and had a stent put in an artery. I'm recovering well on both surgeries. My shoulder feels SO much better than it has in years!
Artistic Chaos Cindy Kelley oh my goodness. You’ve been going through a lot then. I hope you recover from both completely:) stay strong and i know you’ll overcome each. So glad to hear that your arm is feeling better:)
@@clarksadventures1526 Thank you so much.
The 15:38 pain is worse.
I am freaking, I need both done. tore them in a fall
for sure I am asking for the ice machine and support
Wize Gal2020 oh yeah the ice machine is life saving. Do the physical therapy to break up that scar tissue to get it back to normal:) sorry you had to join the club. Lean on everyone you can while recovering. Happy healing:)
Absolutely excellent video and I cannot thank you enough. I'm meeting with the surgeon tomorrow. Will be having a complete shoulder rebuild. I am very independent and so the hardest thing is having to rely on help. One thing not covered was showering and keeping everything dry. Any helpful suggestions?
I’m on day 4 and my shoulder doesn’t bother me much...it’s my arm that’s tired of being in the sling ..today I see some swelling on it Mahn makes me more angry...can’t get enough sleep either... I can’t even remember when & how I got injured..maybe because I brushed it aside thinking it was just a minor shoulder pain and will go away but it didn’t...what have I got myself into is all I’m thinking right now .
Thank you so much!
I can't find the second part of this!
MIne is my non-dominant hand. I tore my cuff 6-7 years ago during a swim team practice (butterfly stroke). I pulled my left arm forward a couple milliseconds before my right arm and I felt a snap. My coach was so angry because the girls kept getting injured. I had gotten out of the water and she said if I didn't get back in I was off the team. I was 12 at the time so I followed her directions and swam on that arm for another week or so before going to the doctor. I was in a sling for 6 months and have had PT every year since then. I'm now 19 and have been told I'll need to get it fixed.
That coach should be sued
Sorry to hear about your story…as a young 12 years old you must be in great pain to undergone such bully coach. This is the reason we must listen to our young kids when they’re telling the truth
This was a great video.. It eased my mind allot. I"m having a torn rotator cuff surgery on my right (dominant) shoulder this Friday, 2/1. The deodorant thing was awesome, as was the shaving recommendation and the shower accessories...I had those for my back surgery. Should have kept them for this surgery! lol...although I didn't know I was going to hurt my shoulder 5 months ago...Anyway, good tips and tricks. If you have tips on using the toilet and what comes with that, please reach out to me personally....dont know that everyone will want to see or hear that one! Thanks again!
Nancy Harless haha well we all have to use the bathroom. Unfortunately you just have to get used to wiping with your opposite hand. You’ll adjust with it as you go:) it does suck but fortunately it is temporary:) I liked being independent and doing what I was capable of doing so i liked having the tools that allowed me to be successful on my own. Fortunately all you threw out were not expensive items so hopefully not a big deal to get again. Sorry you had to join the club. Happy healing. Wish you the best:)
I am having this surgery soon and you mentioned something’s I haven’t thought about . A question for you how about personal hygiene, toilet issues and suggestions or heads up . Thanks
Really truly helpful video
APRIL Fielder oh thank you so much I am glad that it helped you:)
With your shoulder pain, was it more in the front of the shoulder or the back of the shoulder
Everyone talks about the 1st 3 days a being so bad. I need to know do the pain pills help at all ??? Is it off the charts suffering?
I know this is a response eight months after but yes the pain pills did help through the first three days. My surgery was on Friday morning and I took mine every four hours until very early Sunday morning and then decided to stop. Tylenol and my rotation of ice packs did just fine at that point. I also slept a whole lot with the help of the pain pills. It was definitely a marathon sleeping two hours off for a half hour or so sleeping two hours up for a half hour etc. The arthroscopic surgery was also a blessing I believe.
Days 4 and 5 were the worst pain for me. Everyone is a bit different I guess.
Good video
Thank you I have surgery going up .. I have a thick Full Tear of the tendon Dr said I pulled it off the bone .. Ant advice you want to give me I’m open Om a Strong 63 year old women .. Thank you ✌️☮️
Hi Brody. I had surgery over a year ago. The recovery was very slow and VERY painful. Going back to the surgeon, after a year, I told him I was still in pain. He told me it might be scar tissue etc etc. I feel like I'm intruding when I see him. I still have pain when I'm driving, walking or just out of the blue! Could I have re injured it? I don't know what to do! It's so painful!!!!!!
Find a new doc and get a ct
Thanks for the video. How are you doing now?
This was great, so informative, thankyou. My surgery is scheduled for 13th Aug this year, which is 2020, so 5 weeks' time. I'm having a bone spur and rotator cuff repair just like you. Scared about the dressing & undressing bit. Not looking forward to removing the sling to do it. You are right on point about the thing you said regarding the dominant hand. Like you, I am right-handed and the surgery will be on my right shoulder. Ironic huh? How are you 2 years on from your surgery????
What kind of pain meds did you get for the first week ? I had a Total Knee Replacement and I was given Deladed 4 mg was a lifesaver the VA is not good on pain management..I'm not looking forward to this
Had my surgery Tuesday and today is Saturday. Pain a lot better today so took a shower and it felt great but this stupid brace is impossible to get back on. I hate you donjoy. Took 4 nurses to get it on and it was never right to start with. Driving me nuts.
Tore my rotator cuff playing baseball and I’m getting surgery, I’m nervous due to the fact I can’t take pills so I’m hoping the pain isn’t to severe after surgery..
Mine was non-dominant arm...lol but I guess I am fairly ambidextrous anyway