Excellent advice about the sling and ice machine. I had surgery in 2019. My surgeon strongly recommended the ice machine. He told me that if i brought it with me to surgery, i would wake up with it on my shoulder, and that's exactly what happened. If i were to give advice to anyone getting shoulder surgery, it would be this...get the ice machine and use it as much as possible. It's an amazing pain killer and swelling reducer. And during your recovery, try sleeping in a reclining chair. You can still use the ice machine with the sling, or prop your arm in place with pillows. It will keep you from rolling over on to your shoulder, and you will be able to get real sleep. Everyone told me i would be in excruciating pain, but i wasn't. Now i might need surgery on my other shoulder, but because of my prior experience, I'm not even nervous or worried. I wish you well with your treatment.
Thank you for this comment. I am about to have my right shoulder replaced and I'm quite apprehensive about the post-op recovery! I have an Iceman on board because I've had both of my hips replaced, as well as my right knee (revised twice - eek!) and you are SO RIGHT - the ice water therapy is a life saver!! But hearing comments of others who've been through this is giving me more faith in my own ability to recover productively! thanks again
The people at the hospital put it on wrong and I've been in pain for the past 3 days, thanks to you I've almost got it at least it's a lot more comfortable now
No lie, probably one of the most informative videos I've ever seen. Thank you for speaking on this from the user's perspective. That last part where you explained the fingers thing really brought it home. A lot of what my doctor told me conflicts with what the nurses tell me and what the little handouts say. I have surgery in 2 days and I feel way more prepared now that I've seen this.
Thank you very much for an excellent demo and teaching video of the sling. None of this was explained to me after rotator cuff surgery. They sent me home with the sling from the hospital, and that was it. I wish I had seen your video much earlier.
When my husband had surgery about 11 months ago the same thing happened, and I had to call my bestfriend (crying) to come help me, because my husband's sling slipped and he was in complete agony and I had NO idea how to fix it or how to help. I am likely going to need surgery after my 11/18 consult, and went hunting information - I wish I had done that last year for my husband.
This is the surgeon that did both of my rotator cuff repairs. I'm very familiar with those slings. If you get McKay as a surgeon, you are in good hands.
Dr McKay, you helped me with my left shoulder replacement. I flew back up to WA after relocating to CA. I used both of these devices following my surgery at your recommendation. I can’t thank you so much for your excellent care. I had great success. Unfortunately I was my Moms caregiver and needed to have surgery done to continue with her care since she was bedridden. My replacement surgery was a success. I stayed in Shelton for 5 weeks following surgery. After you released me I returned to CA and was able to begin doing most of Moms care.. Did not do physical therapy due to location of living in the foothills and caring for Mom was forced PT. I want to thank you for the excellent care and compassion you shared with me. I am scheduled to have my right shoulder done Dec 1, 2021 at Stanford. Unfortunately the damage done is extensive and they are only able to do a partial. I just look forward to pain relief. I thankfully have both my ice machine and sling. Again, thank you so very much for all you did to help me. Kathy L Fredrick
Kathy, I'm scheduled for rotator cuff surgery in 1 month on dominant shoulder AND I am sole caregiver for my 92 year old Mom. I wish I could find out how you recovered & whether you had lots of help. I'm feeling overwhelmed at having my dominant arm immobilized for 6 weeks and how I will be able to get enough help for my mom for 6 months. It was nice to see I'm not alone in this kind of challenge.
Greetings Dr McKay! As a retired clinical/academic health educator, I really appreciate the quality of your entire series on shoulder rehab. I recently underwent rotator cuff repair after avulsing the biceps long head. My surgeon did a perfect job, as far as I could tell, and demonstrated a well appreciated bedside manner. Unfortunately, the facility where he is employed offered only a barely readable, multigenerational copy of patient instructions that seemed years old which conflicted with his verbal instructions. After a long history of sports-related knee injuries, I am aware that I tend to push myself a little to hard a little too soon. Thus, I have been anxious about the inconsistent instructions I received; at least until about 30 minutes ago when I started watching your videos. Of course, nothing takes the place of receiving instructions face-to-face from a confident and knowledgeable clinical professional (who is also an active listener), but your excellent series certainly provides a supportive “sling” to relieve the anxious discomfort of uncertainty regarding post-surgical activity. And patients can review the materials again and again. So, thanks again! Highest regards, Glenn West, PhD
Fantastic video. I was totally wearing it wrong and my neck was getting sore. I knew I was wearing it wrong some how. My friend loaned it too me. You should see the garbage sling the surgery center provided. I’d be embarrassed to give that to a patient my arm slipped out of it twice in the first couple hours. I can tell you really care about your Patients! They are lucky to have you! Thank you Dr.
Great info. Very clear and not confusing and complicated. Thank you. I learned from you Dr. today!! Having surgery in 4 weeks to repair complete tear of rotator cuff. Thanks again
This is Sherri Cowger, you repaired both of my rotator cuffs and are hands down the best ortho surgeon. However I must say that whoever invented this sling, hates his mother as it is not female friendly lol!
Agree Sherri…. I just had a normal sling, in the middle of summer in Australia. Watching the Doctor putting on the sling brought back some horrible memories .His new sling would be hard for us girls with our breasts getting in the way!! 😣💕🌹
Do you know where i can get this sling? Im using the normal sling but my ribs are starting to ache and its very painful for me to sleep in the normal sling
I am one week out, post-op, from my third shoulder surgery and without a doubt this is the best video I have watched regarding proper placement of the sling and the importance, anatomically for healing. Thank you.
Your sling video was amazing I'm 1wk out of slap tear repair. Thank you it was extremely informative and you were articulate and conveyed the information very well . Again thank you
Hey TH-cam hero. Alex Grinenko here. I don't know if you remember me or not but you you rotator cuff repair on both my shoulders back in 2010-2011. I am in Florida now and saw your informative videos after checking on my reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Best wishes to you and your practice. You were the best.
Great video. The ice machine is a great help. Understanding the purpose of the ball and especially the purpose of the sling really helps me to not use my arm!! Great description of the tendon and bone fibers. Thank you!
Thank you! This a great video. Very informative. No one explained any of this to me when I had my first shoulder surgery. I had no idea how to use it or wear it correctly. That might be part of the reason I am now scheduled for a total shoulder replacement in a few weeks. This was so helpful for me.
I also felt a lack of that initial clear instruction. In the first few hours after surgery is not the best time to hand out a sheet of not always clear instructions, but it was all I had. At least I have been pain free for the past week. I did not take the high strength painkillers I was given, opting to use low strength versions, but I stopped them after four days. Now I have no more than h=than the odd dull ache, unless I move unwisely.
THANK YOU! Your tutorial is such a blessing. I have struggled with my sling since I had surgery and this video was so incredibly helpful. Thank you so much.
Prior to surgery be sure to Ask your surgeon when you should Schedule your Post Surgery Appointment. Make your appointment then in case Physical Therapy gets busy and there aren't any appointments. In my case there was some miscommunication regarding when I should start physical. At my 4WEEK post surgery visit she told me was supposed to have start physical therapy my Second week. When I tried to schedule my appointment later that day they didn't have the referral. I had to wait for the referral to come through and then the only available appointment was a video call appointment @ 5weeks. I couldn't get a face to face for another 12 days later. So I am behind schedule regarding physical therapy.
Awesome video! I’m having surgery this Monday 😩! And Dr. McKay (whom I don’t know) explained everything very clearly and never rushed through the whole concept on the sling. Plus I love the design of that particular sling without the weight not being on your shoulder. Great job doc 👍🏻! Now wish me luck 🤦♀️😢
@@leonardodalongisland how did it go i just had mine on Monday and oh boy I cried in recovery and threw up... lol but i'm thankful I made it through now let the recovery begin hope all went well for you ⚘
@@TonyaR789 Tonya sorry to hear you cried-hope I don't. Hell these days I cry watching commercials. I'm such a dolphin, the babies make me cry :). I'm scheduled for the 27th...but don't yet have plans for post surgery recovery assistance and I live alone so I don't know what I'm going to do. Good luck to you and stay in touch
@@leonardodalongisland Wishing you the best of luck and most definitely your gonna need help. Please be careful and don't worry if you cry like somebody stole your puppy i cried and threw up 😂😂😂😂
Incredibly informative. Had my surgery today with James Andrew’s group in Birmingham Alabama. The demonstration answered several questions I had. Thank You.
I’m currently wearing the BREG slingshot2 arm-brace post Rotator cuff repair. A reviewer mentioned that the brace is not “female friendly ”. I find the brace to be very effective, comfortable, and female friendly. Perhaps I have a newer version, I’m wearing the one with the rubber ball to squeeze and increase your circulation. I’m 5’7, weight is 130# and wear a 34D braw. The sling does not interfere with my bra or breast. In fact, it’s worn below the breast on the waist. It’s female friendly for my build, but I have a long torso. I’m also an RN and have experience with numerous braces. I highly recommend the BREG brace. I’m sure that adjustments can be made for those who feel this brace is not female friendly. Hope this helps.❤
Thank you Dr. McKay. I had surgery December 22nd on my rt shoulder for a complete tear of my rotator cuff muscle with 5 anchors,a bicep tendon relocation plus both shoulder blade and collar bones shaved from bone spurs. It's been over three weeks now and I am dealing with the inside of my rt arm from my thumb to the inside of my elbow. It's numb and sensitive to the touch. I'm hoping that it goes away soon. It's got me worried cause I have Basal joint arthritis that hurts more than my shoulder did. My surgery for it is held off because of my shoulder therapy. I saw my P A last week and he didn't say much about the numbness? What advice can you give me? Thank you
I had my rotator cuff surgery 2weeks ago, and wish I had been given the link to this video. Extra information I got was why not to use the thumb strap on the first day when the arm is numb, the use of the ball to reduce fluid buildup and the healing process that takes place while the joint is immobile. Thanks for this informative demo.
Just had my rotator cuff surgery last Wednesday and I have been struggling with the sling and the ice machine, but this video has really helped. I did not experience any significant pain just difficulty trying to sleep and getting comfortably positioned to do so.
Thank you! Having arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery soon, the sling is the biggest challenge,but so important for proper healing, Thanks for a great demo and explanations.
I am doing my 2nd reverse total shoulder. The 1st one 7 years ago, it was found that I was carrying 2 viral infections! And that replacement had to be removed and the infection treated. Your illustration of the shoulder harness is the very best! I had over 3 years of physical therapy and all of the muscles in my shoulder and upper arm had atrophied! Prior to my reverse total shoulder. I would like to get more information about your shoulder harness and the set up and if there is a name that you can send me that I can share with my surgeon, I will certainly do that and use it. I love the video. And I'm certain that your video this video will help many patients. Thank you very much
Thank you Dr. Trent. Very helpful. I just reapplied my sling by myself with your instruction. Yesterday, I gad a total reverse shoulder replacement. Rotator cuff tears and severe arthritis. Now onto recovery.
Thank you for the information on why you wear the sling and tummy pack. It makes sense. Don’t know why they don’t explain this to me. Love the shoulder slinging ; the added comfort relieving the shoulder of the pressure, and setting up the Velcro,as a back pack strap. Thank you again. This has helped a lot.
Not sure if sling I have is JUST like his with straps. I turned my neck strap into just like his. Omg what a relief!! Had neck surgery so neck strap relief is a NEW I can wear this thing for 6 more weeks lol Thank you SO much
Excellent video on the use of the sling and purchase of an ice machine. I had a rotator cuff repair and capsular release two weeks ago. I was sent home with sling and ice packs. I highly recommend the ice machine as the ice packs did not stay cool long enough. I filled my ice machine with water up to the fill line and then used 4-5 frozen water bottles as the ice. This was much easier to deal with than the ice. I had 10 water bottles total that I rotated. The use of the ice machine greatly helped with the pain and helped with falling asleep. I kept it running for hours at a time. Insurance would not cover the cost of the ice machine. I purchased mine from Amazon.
Thank you for your information on the ice machine. I will have rotator cuff repair in September. Your water bottle rotation tip is great. I hope your recovery is going well.
@@pseudoshannon Thank you. I’ve recovered much better than I had expected. I will be having the other rotator cuff repair done in September. Good luck in your recovery.
@@TH-lr9jb I just recently had a slap tear operation done. I have one of these, it’s called a slingshot 2 by breg. There is a slingshot 3 but it looks a lot more complicated. Something to note is I have someone help me take it off and on, so idk how you’d fare if you live on your own. Good luck and wishing you a speedy recovery.
@@TH-lr9jb update: it’s actually really easy to take it on and off on your own, the doctor just had to show me haha. 2 months post op and shoulder feels great. Range of motion slowly coming back and return to sport looking like September, everything on track. Hope you’re doing well
DonJoy UltraSling IV Shoulder Support Sling is one I have found while looking up slings. I just had a full thickness tear and significant labrum tear repairs done a few days ago. All my surgeon gave me was a plain $10 single strap sling for my recovery. Wish I could get a better sling and the chiller for pain control would definitely help with comfort!
Thank you. Your video was very helpful. I just had my rotator cuff operated on yesterday and was given this sling. I just wanted to make sure I knew how to properly use it and adjust it if necessary. I agree that this is the best sling I have seen yet. No pressure around the neck as previous slings had caused.
Thank you! Terrific information. I’m almost 2 weeks after reverse total replacement. I really wish I had that type of shoulder harness - the irritation, pressure and discomfort of it on my neck is almost worse than the rest of it
Sandra, my moon was also on Medicare it covered that sling with the pillow AND the ball on the end, double check they also paid for an Ice machine she had to use for home
I will be having a Reversal Shoulder Replacement and was concern about the sling possibly gong around my neck. I have severe neck pain from a failed surgery, surgeon fault, and so I cannot handle anything pulling on my neck. This sling looks perfect. I also place a lg bag of frozen peas on my shoulder every 1 - 1 1/2 hrs for relief of pain until my surgery. I love your cooling pad and know I need one for now and later. Great video thank you so much.
OMG THANK YOU!!! Pain block seems to be a foreign concept in Alabama. I sustained a broken humeral head and fracture radial head in a fall 10 days ago. The only pain meds which have been grudgingly offered are codiene based oral meds which I can't tolerate well. None of the 3 doctors I've consulted ever bothered to mention pain blocks as an alternative. I have to go make some calls. I was also give a very badly fitted child sized standard sling which no one will believe is actually causing me more pain. Eeesh.
I just watched Dr. McKay's excellent video which demonstrated the proper use of the sling & cushion. My rotator cuff surgery was 1/10/20. I have found that my Breg SlingShot 2 does cut into my neck causing a fair amount of discomfort. The sling Dr. McKay demonstrated appears to be superior and potentially more comfortable. Can anyone tell me the specific brand/model of that sling and where to obtain one? Many thanks in advance.
Dr. McKay did my surgery on 1/7/2020 and the demonstrated sling is what he prescribes through Olympia Ortho Physical Therapy. Brand is UltraSling IV DonJoy. Amazon has it listed for $115.
you are a lifesaver. we did no get any instruction on sling adjustment before leaving the surgical center; any barely any callbacks when I got hand swelling or other problems once home. We were basically rushed out of the surgery center quite aggressively and left to the wilderness of the medical group's multilevel phone answering system, were the call was frequently dropped before I could even press option 3 or whatever.
Thank you for this video. The place I had surgery literally didn’t tell me anything. I woke up with the sling on and a ball. Made sure I was woke from the anesthesia and sent me on my way and screwed up my pain meds order. I had to wait 4 days before I got them. Again thanks for a great informative video
How do I get a sling like the one in your video? I'm wearing one now that cuts into my neck like the ones you say your patients complain about. I just had rotator cuff repair surgery
Most of the major medical equipment companies make a sling like it. Usually your surgeon can help you obtain one. I believe the video shows a Breg but we also use Donjoy frequently.
Excellant video, thank you. I wish I had this sling. mine cuts into my neck very badly! So uncomfortable. I haven't had surgery, but fractured my socket ball when I fell. M doctor says it should heal very nicely though. The uncomfortable sling is my most complaint. Good to dee this better sling.
Thank you for this video, I live North of you in Seattle. Because doctors and surgeons are so short handed these days, it is tough to get through to them with pre surgery questions about my rotator cuff surgery. My surgery is scheduled out a month from now, and this video was very helpful. I just ordered the Polar Products circulating ice machine, and will try to find the sling you showed. Thank you for sharing your expertise and time with us.
Wish they'd given me that sling. While virtually none of this was explained to me, I knew what the healing process was about and why the immobilization was needed due to my own medical experience. I am about 6 weeks post surgery now, and mostly not using the sling. I heal pretty fast in general. I've been gradually weaing off the sling and I am now NOT using it while asleep and moving that arm strictly within the limits of my ability and religiously doing my home exercises along with scheduled PT visits. Your actual mileage may vary so I am not advocating anything here. Everyone heals differently. I will say, do EVERYTHING your doc and PT tells you to do. DO YOUR HOME EXERCISES! I truly believe this has accelerated my own healing process. My ability to move and ROM is increasing due to that.
Just had rotator tear repair and have this exact setup. Thanks for the great explanation. Also, I had the regenten graph added to the repair. Are you familiar with this? I understand it greatly improves outcomes.
You are a wonderful doctor! Thank you for taking the time to explain these things. May our LORD God bless you as you perform surgery and are an extension of His healing hands, and may He bless you, your practice and your family throughout your life. In His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior's precious Name. Amen.
Hello Dr. McKay, I am on day-4 of the LT shoulder arthroscopic surgery----Three Arthrex screws at three different locations on the humeral head for re-attaching the tendons of various muscles using criss-cross bio-synthetic threads, Push-lock repair of SLAP and labrum and the OPUS for the rotator cuff. The Brachial plexus block came off after 18 hours and pain started appearing. I started with 400 mg of Ibuprofen, used ice and finished the first night. The sling that the surgical center provided was only an arm sling and NOT sling & swathe variety where the forearm stays tucked on the belly and does not allow any free motion of the arm like a pendulum. So, I noticed that as I get up, my arm was moving like a pendulum and I instantly realized that this was a WRONG sling. I asked my family to quickly switch me into Sling & Swathe that I had from the dislocation a week ago. The next day, the Hydra-Chiller unit came in and I have been using it 30-60 min sessions, 2-3 times a day. But the most bothersome question I have is the type of sling the surgery center gave me. I thought that my sling would be slight abduction type with a foam-block or wedge in the arm-pit to keep that abduction and I am going to place the same question to my ortho-office. Day and night are all mixed. I sleep when I get sleepy. In-between, I am trying to remain active with the rest of the body and RT arm/forearm/hand/wrist/fingers.
I have been lucky with pain management, I have had hardly any post-operative pain. However, I may not have been aggressive enough in preventing use of my arm. I have not done anything too heavy, but I have added some additional strapping to prevent my arm moving about in the sling. I found some of my adventurous moves caused pain, I felt these moves were a dumb idea. Now, I am a week out of surgery, and have only found resources such as yours during my current downtime. The downtime is essential, since I am no spring chicken at 77-years old. Still, the downtime is almost making me climb the walls. There is so much I cannot do, and since my wife passed three months back, there is only me to deal with the day to day stuff. It is not getting done at the moment!
Thanks for posting this. Not a patient of yours, but appreciate that you would do this for the public.
Excellent advice about the sling and ice machine. I had surgery in 2019. My surgeon strongly recommended the ice machine. He told me that if i brought it with me to surgery, i would wake up with it on my shoulder, and that's exactly what happened. If i were to give advice to anyone getting shoulder surgery, it would be this...get the ice machine and use it as much as possible. It's an amazing pain killer and swelling reducer. And during your recovery, try sleeping in a reclining chair. You can still use the ice machine with the sling, or prop your arm in place with pillows. It will keep you from rolling over on to your shoulder, and you will be able to get real sleep. Everyone told me i would be in excruciating pain, but i wasn't. Now i might need surgery on my other shoulder, but because of my prior experience, I'm not even nervous or worried. I wish you well with your treatment.
Thank you for this comment. I am about to have my right shoulder replaced and I'm quite apprehensive about the post-op recovery! I have an Iceman on board because I've had both of my hips replaced, as well as my right knee (revised twice - eek!) and you are SO RIGHT - the ice water therapy is a life saver!! But hearing comments of others who've been through this is giving me more faith in my own ability to recover productively! thanks again
This video is the most informative and well explained that I have seen. Thank you Doctor
The people at the hospital put it on wrong and I've been in pain for the past 3 days, thanks to you I've almost got it at least it's a lot more comfortable now
No lie, probably one of the most informative videos I've ever seen. Thank you for speaking on this from the user's perspective. That last part where you explained the fingers thing really brought it home.
A lot of what my doctor told me conflicts with what the nurses tell me and what the little handouts say. I have surgery in 2 days and I feel way more prepared now that I've seen this.
Why sooo many ads? Going to ER for"insructions on donjoy ultra sling,has to be faster
Thank you very much for an excellent demo and teaching video of the sling. None of this was explained to me after rotator cuff surgery. They sent me home with the sling from the hospital, and that was it. I wish I had seen your video much earlier.
Me rn. Like they gave me little to no info at all lol
Me too because I have herniated disks in my neck & wearing a sling very is painful all the way around!
When my husband had surgery about 11 months ago the same thing happened, and I had to call my bestfriend (crying) to come help me, because my husband's sling slipped and he was in complete agony and I had NO idea how to fix it or how to help. I am likely going to need surgery after my 11/18 consult, and went hunting information - I wish I had done that last year for my husband.
SAME HERE.
This is the surgeon that did both of my rotator cuff repairs. I'm very familiar with those slings. If you get McKay as a surgeon, you are in good hands.
Dr McKay, you helped me with my left shoulder replacement. I flew back up to WA after relocating to CA. I used both of these devices following my surgery at your recommendation. I can’t thank you so much for your excellent care. I had great success. Unfortunately I was my Moms caregiver and needed to have surgery done to continue with her care since she was bedridden. My replacement surgery was a success. I stayed in Shelton for 5 weeks following surgery. After you released me I returned to CA and was able to begin doing most of Moms care.. Did not do physical therapy due to location of living in the foothills and caring for Mom was forced PT. I want to thank you for the excellent care and compassion you shared with me. I am scheduled to have my right shoulder done Dec 1, 2021 at Stanford. Unfortunately the damage done is extensive and they are only able to do a partial. I just look forward to pain relief. I thankfully have both my ice machine and sling. Again, thank you so very much for all you did to help me. Kathy L Fredrick
Kathy, I'm scheduled for rotator cuff surgery in 1 month on dominant shoulder AND I am sole caregiver for my 92 year old Mom. I wish I could find out how you recovered & whether you had lots of help. I'm feeling overwhelmed at having my dominant arm immobilized for 6 weeks and how I will be able to get enough help for my mom for 6 months. It was nice to see I'm not alone in this kind of challenge.
I JUST HAD SURGERY ON FEBRUARY 19, 2024. THIS IS SO HELPFUL. 🙂
I’m having surgery March 15, 2024. Thanks so much!
Greetings Dr McKay!
As a retired clinical/academic health educator, I really appreciate the quality of your entire series on shoulder rehab.
I recently underwent rotator cuff repair after avulsing the biceps long head. My surgeon did a perfect job, as far as I could tell, and demonstrated a well appreciated bedside manner.
Unfortunately, the facility where he is employed offered only a barely readable, multigenerational copy of patient instructions that seemed years old which conflicted with his verbal instructions.
After a long history of sports-related knee injuries, I am aware that I tend to push myself a little to hard a little too soon. Thus, I have been anxious about the inconsistent instructions I received; at least until about 30 minutes ago when I started watching your videos.
Of course, nothing takes the place of receiving instructions face-to-face from a confident and knowledgeable clinical professional (who is also an active listener), but your excellent series certainly provides a supportive “sling” to relieve the anxious discomfort of uncertainty regarding post-surgical activity. And patients can review the materials again and again. So, thanks again!
Highest regards,
Glenn West, PhD
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EASILY SOME OF THE BEST INFO IVE GOTTEN SINCE SURGERY !!!
This video is really useful and informative for those recovering from shoulder surgery.
Fantastic video. I was totally wearing it wrong and my neck was getting sore. I knew I was wearing it wrong some how. My friend loaned it too me. You should see the garbage sling the surgery center provided. I’d be embarrassed to give that to a patient my arm slipped out of it twice in the first couple hours. I can tell you really care about your Patients! They are lucky to have you! Thank you Dr.
Just had total reverse shoulder surgery 5 days ago. Found this video very helpful and easy to understand. Keep up the good work
Did you have to have total shoulder replacement because all the tendons were torn that held your shoulder socket in place?
Good
Solid; clear & concise tutorial. Appreciate the explanations as to basic logic and understanding of the why to enhance rehab and recovery
Great info. Very clear and not confusing and complicated. Thank you. I learned from you Dr. today!! Having surgery in 4 weeks to repair complete tear of rotator cuff. Thanks again
This is Sherri Cowger, you repaired both of my rotator cuffs and are hands down the best ortho surgeon. However I must say that whoever invented this sling, hates his mother as it is not female friendly lol!
Agree Sherri…. I just had a normal sling, in the middle of summer in Australia. Watching the Doctor
putting on the sling brought back some horrible memories .His new sling would be hard for us girls with our breasts getting in the way!! 😣💕🌹
Do you know where i can get this sling? Im using the normal sling but my ribs are starting to ache and its very painful for me to sleep in the normal sling
I am one week out, post-op, from my third shoulder surgery and without a doubt this is the best video I have watched regarding proper placement of the sling and the importance, anatomically for healing. Thank you.
Why must they hate their mother? Women say this jokingly all the time. And it's an insult.
Hilarious!
Dr. McKay did my surgery. Results were great. He is awesome.
Your sling video was amazing I'm 1wk out of slap tear repair. Thank you it was extremely informative and you were articulate and conveyed the information very well . Again thank you
Thank You very much . Not sure how anyone would have negative remarks or dislike this video . Very concise !
Check my comment, I have have some negative remarks for that BS cooling cube, I am thumbs down #174
Hey TH-cam hero. Alex Grinenko here. I don't know if you remember me or not but you you rotator cuff repair on both my shoulders back in 2010-2011. I am in Florida now and saw your informative videos after checking on my reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Best wishes to you and your practice. You were the best.
Great video. The ice machine is a great help. Understanding the purpose of the ball and especially the purpose of the sling really helps me to not use my arm!! Great description of the tendon and bone fibers. Thank you!
Thank you! This a great video. Very informative. No one explained any of this to me when I had my first shoulder surgery. I had no idea how to use it or wear it correctly. That might be part of the reason I am now scheduled for a total shoulder replacement in a few weeks. This was so helpful for me.
I also felt a lack of that initial clear instruction. In the first few hours after surgery is not the best time to hand out a sheet of not always clear instructions, but it was all I had. At least I have been pain free for the past week. I did not take the high strength painkillers I was given, opting to use low strength versions, but I stopped them after four days. Now I have no more than h=than the odd dull ache, unless I move unwisely.
THANK YOU! Your tutorial is such a blessing. I have struggled with my sling since I had surgery and this video was so incredibly helpful. Thank you so much.
Prior to surgery be sure to Ask your surgeon when you should Schedule your Post Surgery Appointment. Make your appointment then in case Physical Therapy gets busy and there aren't any appointments. In my case there was some miscommunication regarding when I should start physical. At my 4WEEK post surgery visit she told me was supposed to have start physical therapy my Second week. When I tried to schedule my appointment later that day they didn't have the referral. I had to wait for the referral to come through and then the only available appointment was a video call appointment @ 5weeks. I couldn't get a face to face for another 12 days later. So I am behind schedule regarding physical therapy.
So there is no misunderstanding I live in a different State than this doctor.
Awesome video! I’m having surgery this Monday 😩! And Dr. McKay (whom I don’t know) explained everything very clearly and never rushed through the whole concept on the sling. Plus I love the design of that particular sling without the weight not being on your shoulder. Great job doc 👍🏻! Now wish me luck 🤦♀️😢
Laura, how it go? And how was the/is the post op? I get mine done soon
I just had mine on Monday 😪 now the healing process begins hope yours went well ⚘
@@leonardodalongisland how did it go i just had mine on Monday and oh boy I cried in recovery and threw up... lol but i'm thankful I made it through now let the recovery begin hope all went well for you ⚘
@@TonyaR789 Tonya sorry to hear you cried-hope I don't. Hell these days I cry watching commercials. I'm such a dolphin, the babies make me cry :). I'm scheduled for the 27th...but don't yet have plans for post surgery recovery assistance and I live alone so I don't know what I'm going to do. Good luck to you and stay in touch
@@leonardodalongisland Wishing you the best of luck and most definitely your gonna need help. Please be careful and don't worry if you cry like somebody stole your puppy i cried and threw up 😂😂😂😂
Incredibly informative. Had my surgery today with James Andrew’s group in Birmingham Alabama. The demonstration answered several questions I had. Thank You.
How are you progressing?
Had my surgery yesterday 🤣
Thank you, Dr.McKay. This has so much great info in 8 minutes. Love the info on why limited movement is important.
Very informative video. Thank you. Having surgery in a week with my brilliant surgeon. Regards from Australia!
thank you for the demo i have been having a lot difficulty putting my sling on
I’m currently wearing the BREG slingshot2 arm-brace post Rotator cuff repair. A reviewer mentioned that the brace is not “female friendly ”. I find the brace to be very effective, comfortable, and female friendly. Perhaps I have a newer version, I’m wearing the one with the rubber ball to squeeze and increase your circulation. I’m 5’7, weight is 130# and wear a 34D braw. The sling does not interfere with my bra or breast. In fact, it’s worn below the breast on the waist. It’s female friendly for my build, but I have a long torso. I’m also an RN and have experience with numerous braces. I highly recommend the BREG brace. I’m sure that adjustments can be made for those who feel this brace is not female friendly. Hope this helps.❤
Excellent video to explain both what to do and why to do it. I have this surgery Thursday, and you have helped me understand.
Thank you Dr. McKay. I had surgery December 22nd on my rt shoulder for a complete tear of my rotator cuff muscle with 5 anchors,a bicep tendon relocation plus both shoulder blade and collar bones shaved from bone spurs. It's been over three weeks now and I am dealing with the inside of my rt arm from my thumb to the inside of my elbow. It's numb and sensitive to the touch. I'm hoping that it goes away soon. It's got me worried cause I have Basal joint arthritis that hurts more than my shoulder did. My surgery for it is held off because of my shoulder therapy. I saw my P A last week and he didn't say much about the numbness? What advice can you give me? Thank you
This video was very informative. I'm having rotator cuff surgery in two weeks, so this information is really important to have before hand... thanks!
I had my rotator cuff surgery 2weeks ago, and wish I had been given the link to this video. Extra information I got was why not to use the thumb strap on the first day when the arm is numb, the use of the ball to reduce fluid buildup and the healing process that takes place while the joint is immobile. Thanks for this informative demo.
Me to
Excellent video. A family member just had this surgery and it was very helpful. Thanks for posting.
Just had my rotator cuff surgery last Wednesday and I have been struggling with the sling and the ice machine, but this video has really helped. I did not experience any significant pain just difficulty trying to sleep and getting comfortably positioned to do so.
Thank you so much for taking the time to help someone around the world.
Stay safe
Barry & Francine
Peoria AZ usa
Thank you for making sense of a complicated situation!
Thank you! Having arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery soon, the sling is the biggest challenge,but so important for proper healing, Thanks for a great demo and explanations.
Thank you! you have done an excellent job with the walktrough
I am doing my 2nd reverse total shoulder.
The 1st one 7 years ago, it was found that I was carrying 2 viral infections! And that replacement had to be removed and the infection treated.
Your illustration of the shoulder harness is the very best!
I had over 3 years of physical therapy and all of the muscles in my shoulder and upper arm had atrophied!
Prior to my reverse total shoulder.
I would like to get more information about your shoulder harness and the set up and if there is a name that you can send me that I can share with my surgeon, I will certainly do that and use it. I love the video. And I'm certain that your video this video will help many patients.
Thank you very much
Thank you Dr. Trent. Very helpful. I just reapplied my sling by myself with your instruction. Yesterday, I gad a total reverse shoulder replacement. Rotator cuff tears and severe arthritis. Now onto recovery.
Thank you for the information on why you wear the sling and tummy pack. It makes sense. Don’t know why they don’t explain this to me. Love the shoulder slinging ; the added comfort relieving the shoulder of the pressure, and setting up the Velcro,as a back pack strap. Thank you again. This has helped a lot.
Not sure if sling I have is JUST like his with straps. I turned my neck strap into just like his. Omg what a relief!! Had neck surgery so neck strap relief is a NEW I can wear this thing for 6 more weeks lol Thank you SO much
@@shermontclair8259❤ how did you adjust the sling straps?
Thank you, it would have been helpful if my Doc showed me how to use this!!!
Thanks for the video. I’m getting prepared for surgery and this has been very helpful for me.❤
This video was great. Thanks for taking the time. To explain how to use it. The ice, chest The Greatest invention in the world.
Excellent video on the use of the sling and purchase of an ice machine. I had a rotator cuff repair and capsular release two weeks ago. I was sent home with sling and ice packs. I highly recommend the ice machine as the ice packs did not stay cool long enough. I filled my ice machine with water up to the fill line and then used 4-5 frozen water bottles as the ice. This was much easier to deal with than the ice. I had 10 water bottles total that I rotated. The use of the ice machine greatly helped with the pain and helped with falling asleep. I kept it running for hours at a time. Insurance would not cover the cost of the ice machine. I purchased mine from Amazon.
Thank you for your information on the ice machine. I will have rotator cuff repair in September. Your water bottle rotation tip is great. I hope your recovery is going well.
@@pseudoshannon Thank you. I’ve recovered much better than I had expected. I will be having the other rotator cuff repair done in September. Good luck in your recovery.
Where do we find this sling type that makes it easier on the neck
No reply’s 😢 yet. I’m having that surgery soon
@@TH-lr9jb I just recently had a slap tear operation done. I have one of these, it’s called a slingshot 2 by breg. There is a slingshot 3 but it looks a lot more complicated. Something to note is I have someone help me take it off and on, so idk how you’d fare if you live on your own. Good luck and wishing you a speedy recovery.
@@TH-lr9jb you had surgery?
@@TH-lr9jb update: it’s actually really easy to take it on and off on your own, the doctor just had to show me haha. 2 months post op and shoulder feels great. Range of motion slowly coming back and return to sport looking like September, everything on track. Hope you’re doing well
DonJoy UltraSling IV Shoulder Support Sling is one I have found while looking up slings. I just had a full thickness tear and significant labrum tear repairs done a few days ago. All my surgeon gave me was a plain $10 single strap sling for my recovery. Wish I could get a better sling and the chiller for pain control would definitely help with comfort!
I just had surgery , Thank you from Huntington n.y.
Thank you. Your video was very helpful. I just had my rotator cuff operated on yesterday and was given this sling. I just wanted to make sure I knew how to properly use it and adjust it if necessary. I agree that this is the best sling I have seen yet. No pressure around the neck as previous slings had caused.
Excellent video...thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.
Wow!! Great video. I’m going very soon for surgery. So good to know all this before hand!! Be safe God bless
Thank you! Terrific information. I’m almost 2 weeks after reverse total replacement. I really wish I had that type of shoulder harness - the irritation, pressure and discomfort of it on my neck is almost worse than the rest of it
Susan pera, how yours shoulder today? I will have it in 3 months I am so scary I am a 54 years old woman
I’ll be going into my first shoulder surgery soon. Love these videos great tips on to prepare
Best of luck. Ice will be your best buddy for a few weeks.
@@janieroy3222 Or a small bag of green peas!
Heading in for rotator cuff/ slap repair today, your video was very helpful for what’s about to be
Wow! Made it so easy to understand why I need to wear the sling. I'm wearing a it help the bone heal and hopefully prevent surgery. Thanks s much!
I’m on Medicare. No fancy sling or me. Plus No instruction For when I went home. Thank goodness for these you tube videos.
Sandra, my moon was also on Medicare it covered that sling with the pillow AND the ball on the end, double check they also paid for an Ice machine she had to use for home
* mom* not moon lol
I will be having a Reversal Shoulder Replacement and was concern about the sling possibly gong around my neck. I have severe neck pain from a failed surgery, surgeon fault, and so I cannot handle anything pulling on my neck. This sling looks perfect. I also place a lg bag of frozen peas on my shoulder every 1 - 1 1/2 hrs for relief of pain until my surgery. I love your cooling pad and know I need one for now and later. Great video thank you so much.
Really good information I’m heading toward shoulder surgery in a few weeks thanks for putting this out there
Thank you Sir, you explained a lot of things that I didn't know, nor did my Sports Medicine Doctor tell me. Very grateful.
EXCELLENT JOB! Thank you!
The ice machine is a game changer!! Love it and use it a lot!
OMG THANK YOU!!! Pain block seems to be a foreign concept in Alabama. I sustained a broken humeral head and fracture radial head in a fall 10 days ago. The only pain meds which have been grudgingly offered are codiene based oral meds which I can't tolerate well. None of the 3 doctors I've consulted ever bothered to mention pain blocks as an alternative. I have to go make some calls. I was also give a very badly fitted child sized standard sling which no one will believe is actually causing me more pain. Eeesh.
What is the name of this sling?
I just watched Dr. McKay's excellent video which demonstrated the proper use of the sling & cushion. My rotator cuff surgery was 1/10/20. I have found that my Breg SlingShot 2 does cut into my neck causing a fair amount of discomfort. The sling Dr. McKay demonstrated appears to be superior and potentially more comfortable. Can anyone tell me the specific brand/model of that sling and where to obtain one? Many thanks in advance.
Dr. McKay did my surgery on 1/7/2020 and the demonstrated sling is what he prescribes through Olympia Ortho Physical Therapy. Brand is UltraSling IV DonJoy. Amazon has it listed for $115.
@@leal536 Did your insurance pay for your sling?
@@leal536 thanks for posting info on sling!
Perfectly clear instruction...Thank You!
AUsome video. Thank you so much. I’m Having Shoulder Surgery in the morning, Rotator Cuff.🙏🏼💖
you are a lifesaver. we did no get any instruction on sling adjustment before leaving the surgical center; any barely any callbacks when I got hand swelling or other problems once home. We were basically rushed out of the surgery center quite aggressively and left to the wilderness of the medical group's multilevel phone answering system, were the call was frequently dropped before I could even press option 3 or whatever.
Best explanation !! Thank you - I’ve been alone with all these issues
Thanks for the video - watched from Michigan, as I have surgery next week.
I'm in Nashville TN and having shoulder surgery soon here. Where did you find that sling? I need to share with my surgeon. Thank you.
Yes I understand now that he sorrta explained it! I'm having mine done this Thursday! Thank you Dr. McKay very helpful
Where can I purchase the sling you're using in this demonstration? It looks great. I'm using one and the velcro doesn't seem to hold. Thanks.
It would be helpful to know which model sling you’re using.
Thank you. So helpful. The way you explain things makes it easy to understand.
This is excellent information thank you!!!
Thank you for this video. The place I had surgery literally didn’t tell me anything. I woke up with the sling on and a ball. Made sure I was woke from the anesthesia and sent me on my way and screwed up my pain meds order. I had to wait 4 days before I got them.
Again thanks for a great informative video
Great video. I have shoulder surgery scheduled in 2 days. Am a bit nervous.
Thank you so much for this video, Dr. McKay! Good instructions; esp the thumb vs nerve block info! P. S. Ice is my friend.
This video is very informational and helpful. Thank you for sharing.
I have recently had my 6th rotator cuff shoulder surgery in as many years
You videos are very informative and accurate
Thank you
#2 here - good to see you sharing - the patients are the ones who deal with things after the fact
" have recently had my 6th rotator cuff shoulder surgery in as many years "
Good god what are you doing to yourself?
How do I get a sling like the one in your video? I'm wearing one now that cuts into my neck like the ones you say your patients complain about. I just had rotator cuff repair surgery
Jacki Dixon yes I’m in the same boat
I bought mine on amazon this week. Dr had provided me with the neck one
Having surgery on the 14th of sept
LeeJr SoV having surgery also on 16 of September good luck to you god bless you.
Most of the major medical equipment companies make a sling like it. Usually your surgeon can help you obtain one. I believe the video shows a Breg but we also use Donjoy frequently.
Thankyou I'm having a reverse shoulder in 2 weeks. Looks good
This looks amazing!
Excellant video, thank you. I wish I had this sling. mine cuts into my neck very badly! So uncomfortable. I haven't had surgery, but fractured my socket ball when I fell. M doctor says it should heal very nicely though. The uncomfortable sling is my most complaint. Good to dee this better sling.
thank you Dr. McKay. very helpful.
Thank you for this video, I live North of you in Seattle. Because doctors and surgeons are so short handed these days, it is tough to get through to them with pre surgery questions about my rotator cuff surgery. My surgery is scheduled out a month from now, and this video was very helpful. I just ordered the Polar Products circulating ice machine, and will try to find the sling you showed. Thank you for sharing your expertise and time with us.
Can someone tell me where to purchase this sling?
Did manage to find one?
These are what my surgeon uses: www.betterbraces.com/donjoy-ultrasling-iv
Thank you, there was zero input from my doc on the sling or post-op.
Same
Great video, good job explaining the sling and why we need it!
Wish they'd given me that sling. While virtually none of this was explained to me, I knew what the healing process was about and why the immobilization was needed due to my own medical experience. I am about 6 weeks post surgery now, and mostly not using the sling. I heal pretty fast in general. I've been gradually weaing off the sling and I am now NOT using it while asleep and moving that arm strictly within the limits of my ability and religiously doing my home exercises along with scheduled PT visits. Your actual mileage may vary so I am not advocating anything here. Everyone heals differently. I will say, do EVERYTHING your doc and PT tells you to do. DO YOUR HOME EXERCISES! I truly believe this has accelerated my own healing process. My ability to move and ROM is increasing due to that.
Great video, thanks!
Very nice demonstration!!
Just had rotator tear repair and have this exact setup. Thanks for the great explanation. Also, I had the regenten graph added to the repair. Are you familiar with this? I understand it greatly improves outcomes.
You are a wonderful doctor!
Thank you for taking the time to explain these things.
May our LORD God bless you as you perform surgery and are an extension of His healing hands,
and may He bless you, your practice and your family throughout your life.
In His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior's precious Name. Amen.
I'm getting surgery next month this helps a lot
Hello Dr. McKay, I am on day-4 of the LT shoulder arthroscopic surgery----Three Arthrex screws at three different locations on the humeral head for re-attaching the tendons of various muscles using criss-cross bio-synthetic threads, Push-lock repair of SLAP and labrum and the OPUS for the rotator cuff.
The Brachial plexus block came off after 18 hours and pain started appearing. I started with 400 mg of Ibuprofen, used ice and finished the first night. The sling that the surgical center provided was only an arm sling and NOT sling & swathe variety where the forearm stays tucked on the belly and does not allow any free motion of the arm like a pendulum. So, I noticed that as I get up, my arm was moving like a pendulum and I instantly realized that this was a WRONG sling. I asked my family to quickly switch me into Sling & Swathe that I had from the dislocation a week ago.
The next day, the Hydra-Chiller unit came in and I have been using it 30-60 min sessions, 2-3 times a day.
But the most bothersome question I have is the type of sling the surgery center gave me. I thought that my sling would be slight abduction type with a foam-block or wedge in the arm-pit to keep that abduction and I am going to place the same question to my ortho-office.
Day and night are all mixed. I sleep when I get sleepy. In-between, I am trying to remain active with the rest of the body and RT arm/forearm/hand/wrist/fingers.
I have been lucky with pain management, I have had hardly any post-operative pain. However, I may not have been aggressive enough in preventing use of my arm. I have not done anything too heavy, but I have added some additional strapping to prevent my arm moving about in the sling. I found some of my adventurous moves caused pain, I felt these moves were a dumb idea. Now, I am a week out of surgery, and have only found resources such as yours during my current downtime. The downtime is essential, since I am no spring chicken at 77-years old. Still, the downtime is almost making me climb the walls. There is so much I cannot do, and since my wife passed three months back, there is only me to deal with the day to day stuff. It is not getting done at the moment!
Thank you I am going for rotator cuff surgery. Good info.
Get video, thanks. Getting my surgery Tuesday.