I had biceps tenodesis and subacromial decompression surgery on my left shoulder 11 weeks ago (2/26/2007). I started my stretching exercises the day after surgery (as prescibed) and have been stretching religiously twice a day for at least an hour ... PT two to three times a week ... 3 advil before I stretch because there's a lot of inflammation ... I use lots of ice ... I haven't been in the pool yet to kick because the thought of a bathing suit strap on my shoulder makes me cringe...
My passive range of motion numbers are: flexion 140°, abduction 105°, IR (at 90°) 20°, ER (at 90°) 40°, IR (at 45°) 40°, ER (at 45°) 35°.
Because of the inflammation and because my PROM numbers aren't where they should at this point, my PT and my OS want me to have a cortisone shot. Has anyone had an issue with inflammation this long after surgery? Has anyone had a cortisone shot this soon after surgery? Are my PT and OS being impatient? Am I screwing up my recovery by not having the shot?
I had a cortisone shot two years ago, which worked like a charm for 18 months. My second shot was 8 weeks pre-surgery and was not effective. This will be my third.
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swimr4life -
Thanks so much - I was hoping to find someone who is/was experiencing the same type of slow recovery as I am. I really don't want the shot for exactly the reasons you listed.
So did you do anything special in addition to daily stretching, PT, ice and advil to regain your range of motion? My PT is manually manipulating my shoulder joint, hurts but feels good in a twisted kind of way. I think it's helping. I do make progress every week but it's slow. I'd rather regain my range of motion at this pace than suffer the unknown consequences of the shot later on.
How long ago did you have your surgery? How are you now? How long before you could swim?
Thanks for your advice,
Denise
swimr4life -
Thanks so much - I was hoping to find someone who is/was experiencing the same type of slow recovery as I am. I really don't want the shot for exactly the reasons you listed.
So did you do anything special in addition to daily stretching, PT, ice and advil to regain your range of motion? My PT is manually manipulating my shoulder joint, hurts but feels good in a twisted kind of way. I think it's helping. I do make progress every week but it's slow. I'd rather regain my range of motion at this pace than suffer the unknown consequences of the shot later on.
How long ago did you have your surgery? How are you now? How long before you could swim?
Thanks for your advice,
Denise
