cortisone shot 12 weeks post-surgery?

Former Member
Former Member
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.
Parents
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    Hey Beth, I look forward to meeting you one day soon -- I've read a lot of good things about you. :bow:Maybe I'll see you at the Dynamo LCM Nationals Tuneup in July if you are going, and if my shoulders hold up until then... Who is the Atlanta doctor you referenced? I discussed my shoulder pain briefly with my IM and he mentioned a local doctor that did the Falcons, but I haven't followed up yet...Trying the ice, strengthening exercises, stretching so far. Not sure what's going on in there...:notworking: Btw...from another thread, what does ART stand for??? Mark Hi Dlevan, I had inflammation and decreased range of motion for 6 months after my shoulder surgery! It was very scary and very painful. My doctor saidI was a "worse case scenario" because my body made scar tissue around my shoulder. He is a orthopedic specializing in sports medicine....does a lot of the Braves and Falcons surgeries. I asked if I could have a cortisone shot because I heard it decreased inflammation and pain. He felt very strongly against the cortisone shots. He said it is just a temporary fix to the problem and can actually create more problems....weakened ligaments/tendons and the systemic effects of cortisone on your whole body. I would go to another orthopedic (sportsmed specialist) to get a second opinion.
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  • Former Member
    Former Member
    Hey Beth, I look forward to meeting you one day soon -- I've read a lot of good things about you. :bow:Maybe I'll see you at the Dynamo LCM Nationals Tuneup in July if you are going, and if my shoulders hold up until then... Who is the Atlanta doctor you referenced? I discussed my shoulder pain briefly with my IM and he mentioned a local doctor that did the Falcons, but I haven't followed up yet...Trying the ice, strengthening exercises, stretching so far. Not sure what's going on in there...:notworking: Btw...from another thread, what does ART stand for??? Mark Hi Dlevan, I had inflammation and decreased range of motion for 6 months after my shoulder surgery! It was very scary and very painful. My doctor saidI was a "worse case scenario" because my body made scar tissue around my shoulder. He is a orthopedic specializing in sports medicine....does a lot of the Braves and Falcons surgeries. I asked if I could have a cortisone shot because I heard it decreased inflammation and pain. He felt very strongly against the cortisone shots. He said it is just a temporary fix to the problem and can actually create more problems....weakened ligaments/tendons and the systemic effects of cortisone on your whole body. I would go to another orthopedic (sportsmed specialist) to get a second opinion.
Children
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