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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Thanks Tom for your good wishes. I'm going to my OS today and will be letting him know I don't want the shot and see if he will just give me a better anti-inflammatory. If he insists on the shot I will be seeking a second opinion.
I'm also going to find out why he nixed the idea of iontophoresis (my PT suggested but doc said "no, cortisone"). scyfreestyler - I noticed in an older thread that you had this treatment. Was it effective?
Thanks,
Denise
Thanks Tom for your good wishes. I'm going to my OS today and will be letting him know I don't want the shot and see if he will just give me a better anti-inflammatory. If he insists on the shot I will be seeking a second opinion.
I'm also going to find out why he nixed the idea of iontophoresis (my PT suggested but doc said "no, cortisone"). scyfreestyler - I noticed in an older thread that you had this treatment. Was it effective?
Thanks,
Denise