Shoulder update

[helwen]

Saw the doctor this morning. MRI didn't show much, which isn't a big surprise. Problem is likely with a ligament that's on the inside of the joint where it can't be seen with the MRI. Since it's likely a labral tear, the only options are let it remain torn, or go in and repair it. His secretary has to call my insurance company, discuss what's covered and then call me to set up the date for surgery. They're also going to send a report to my primary care physician to let them know what's up, but I think I'll give them a call as well, next Monday. I don't expect to hear from the secretary until early next week, so I'm guessing surgery won't be for another couple of weeks. Certainly it won't be next week -- have a conference to go to next Thursday through Sunday, and am _not_ going to do that the day after surgery.

Surgery will be outpatient, with 30 PT sessions following. 4-5 months for base recovery of function/ROM. From what friends have said, about a year for true full recovery, assuming all goes well.

More next week!

Comments

[loosecanon.livejournal.com]

Will you need a babysitter?
One thing you may wish to do is make up pre-fab meals for about 2 weeks worth of eating.
Recover swiftly and completely.

[helwen.livejournal.com]

Hm.... that's got possibilities....

We do have some frozen stuff, and he can do a few simple dishes -- I might be directing for more interesting stuff :)

Unfortunately we won't know exactly what's involved with recovery times etc. until after the surgery's over and done. Should be interesting...

Hugs your way

[ohsusana.livejournal.com]

I'll be sending much warm thoughts to you.

Re: Hugs your way

[helwen.livejournal.com]

Thanks :)

[etainmbw.livejournal.com]

Sending warm thoughts and healing energy your way.

[helwen.livejournal.com]

Thanks!

ouchies

[murdersmurf.livejournal.com]

good luck, and feel better, I'll be thinking of you.

Re: ouchies

[helwen.livejournal.com]

Thanks :)

Re: ouchies

[murdersmurf.livejournal.com]

no problem. too many people that I care about have been dealing with medical difficulties lately, I don't like this. I want everyone I love to be healthy dangit!

[handymonkey]

I've also heard it said that it takes one month to recover for each hour under general anesthesia. Good luck tomorrow and get well soon!

[helwen.livejournal.com]

Yes, the doctor said expected time for majority of recover would be 4-5 months. Operation is expected to take 4-5 hours. _Full_ recovery I'm expecting to take a year, unless a miracle occurs -- this from nearly everyone I've talked to who's had shoulder surgery.