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Should I have a shoulder replacement?

Posted , 8 users are following.

christine49368
christine49368

I have had right shoulder pain on and off for many years - probably as a result of 15 years nursing. During that time I have had pain killers and anti inflammatory medication, steroid injection, regular private sports physio and chiropractic treatment - and managed to keep going. I retired six years ago and have remained active with two dogs, swimming and lots of gardening. Holidays have been active with an emphasis on walking. I am very fit for my age and not over weight.   Last October, while climbing 123 wooden steps up a cliff face in Minorca, I suddenly found myself sitting down having slipped on the thick green algae covering the steps. In doing this, I jarred my bad shoulder. The pain has not resolved and I was referred to an orthpaedic consultant.  I have had an xray, and yesterday an ultrasound scan.  The Radiographer said "It is not in good shape - you need an MRI scan".  The Consultant had already suggested that I may need a replacement joint.     I am awaiting my next appointment.    I do not have pain at  rest, although sometimes during the night.  I have full range of the joint if I use the other arm to move it. I can lift/carry a bag, but I cant lift even the lightest object into a cupboard. My physio thinks he can keep me going without surgery.  Other reports I red here do not sould very encouraging.  I would welcome any comments.

1 like, 11 replies

11 Replies

  • jillie21227
    jillie21227 christine49368

    Posted

    I have a very good friend who is a retired orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulders - he designed a shoulder and lectured all over the world. He was extremely adamant that it is better NOT to have surgery! A shoulder replacement is [u]huge[/u], so consider everything else first. 

    My decompression, which is minor surgery, has caused me a lot of pain and now when I should be over it and pain free, it is worse than ever.

  • Parps
    Parps christine49368

    Posted

    Christine,I had both shoulders replaced one in 2008 and the other in

    2011 both had osteoarthritis,were painful both to sleep on and use,I had limited range or movement which got worse as time went on....it took.about a year for the shoulders to get back to full strength and mobility..

    I am now 67 and both shoulders give me no trouble whatsoever..I train

    with weights,chin ups,press ups and no discomfort,swim,ski,DIY and carry suitcases at the airport....seriously it changed my life...I now have à 10month old hip replacement so I am even more happier with my life.....

    • christine49368
      christine49368 Parps

      Posted

       I am very pleased to hear a positive story - thank you!  

      I am basically an optimistic person, but want to make the right decision when it comes to it..    In December last, I had a toe straightened under a GA, and wore a heel walking boot for six weeks. I have had no pain at all, and can now wear normal shoes with just a little tenderness still.  

      I just want to be able to carry on with my usual activities.   

    • cheryl90571
      cheryl90571 Parps

      Posted

      Good to hear! So glad things have worked out so well for you!

      I suspect I may be headed for replacement shoulders! I had both knees replaced last year.

      I, too, have Osteoarthritis. Such a nasty disease!

      I just got feeling good with my knees when the shoulders started aching. Not looking forward to potentially MORE surgery!

      Great to hear of your positive outcome. It gives me hope for the future with MY shoulder issues!

  • AliceVictoria
    AliceVictoria christine49368

    Posted

    Hi Christine,

    With my rotor cuff tears after recent fall,Osteoarthritis problems in neck and spine,previous whiplash and fractured collarbone,the physiotherapist seems to think,at 69,surgery should be the last option I am the same as you,fit,56kg,I work part time,walk a lot. I know it is early days with me,but I don't want to be in pain with limited movement,indefinitely. I also seem to be leaning to the right with my shoulder.Maybe it would be helpful to get a referral for a second opinion,and weigh up your options,as you have a lot of living to do.

    Having said all that,I had major breast surgery last May,and was discharged from further check ups after 5 months,as I did everything right,and healed so well,with minimal scarring. Like the surgeon said,everyone heals at a different pace,and age,weight,fitness pays a huge part in progress Good luck.

    • christine49368
      christine49368 AliceVictoria

      Posted

      Thank you for your comments Alice.  I have another appointment early Feb. and I will continue to visit my Sports Physio in the meantime.   By the way, Ive been told I lean to the right too.

      Well done with your excellent recovery time following the breast surgery.   Im sure a positive mental attitude as well as following post op advise to the letter is the answer.    Keep me updated!

  • AliceVictoria
    AliceVictoria christine49368

    Posted

    Thanks also Christine.I am like you,and a lot of other people here,who just want

    to remain active,as I find it hard not being able to 'get up and go'.I think,as we get older,we just appreciate the chance to be able to enjoy as many activities as we can.within our range.We are lucky where we live,as we have beautiful weather,and even in winter we can have some lovely days.Walking, and enjoying nature is one of the best therapies there are, for both mental and physical state of mind and body.

    I will say that after my physio and massage session on my shoulder,wrist and bicep,I felt good for most of the afternoon,but since then the pain is even worse.Still doing daily exercises,so all part of the healing process maybe.😄

  • mark455
    mark455 christine49368

    Posted

    Hi I've had 3 shoulder replacement's in the last 2 years the last time in 08/2015 was a reverse shoulder replacement, shoulder replacement is the worst out of all joint replacements I've had 12 joint replacements 6 hips 3 knees and 3 shoulders. Right now I have both knee's and both hips the only major joint of my own left is my left shoulder. I would never have my left shoulder replaced it is by far the most painful joint to have replaced I have a lifetime weight restrictions of only 20 pounds. I hope you have better luck then I've had. I've also had 3 joint infection's that nearly killed me. Its very serious. You can Google my name Mark Pearce Mayo clinic and see my story when it was done I had just 8 joint replacements. Best wishes.
  • cathie38426
    cathie38426 christine49368

    Posted

    I would say find out what your exactly problem is..

    arthritis in joint, rotator cuff, either or both, you will

    see arthritis on an xray, rotator cuff by an ultrasound.

    Depending on your age, pain and flexibility, you will

    be able to decide. 

    Shoulders are not as 'common' as hips re replacement,

    but if it is your first shoulder surgery and you have intense

    pain and loss of use of a limb then you need someone who

    is doing your particular operation regularly.

    If you read  my posts re my husband's reverse shoulder

    prosthesis (3 months ago we didn't even know what that was),

    then you will  be ale to see his recovery after3 weeks. We are

    delighted with the outcome, and our surgeon, Diogo Silva Gomes

    from Lisbon, Portugal.

    good luck from Cathie and her husband

  • lisa37934
    lisa37934 christine49368

    Posted

    Hi Christine, I am scheduled to have shoulder replacement soon, but having second thoughts. I was wondering if you decided to have it done, and what was your outcome? Any insights appreciated! 
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