I just had it done two weeks ago ,the next day was the worst and I mean the worst but it got better with each day. They gave me 21 Lora tabs 7.5's for the pain, it's a bit stiff in the morning but by noon I can lift my arm straight up over my head.
Hi Lisa - Over the past year I have had both of my shoulders totally replaced and I wanted to let you know that your videos are living on and still helping others on similar journeys as yours. Not only did you give terrific "prep" ideas, your positivity, honesty, and step by step recovery were inspiring. I had a wonderful experience with both shoulders and you were on my journey with me right from the beginning and I will be forever grateful. Just wanted to say THANK YOU for taking the time to pull these videos together amidst your own recovery. Quite a feat ! May God bless you.
I had rotator cuff surgery on my arm February the 13th 2024 and I'm dealing with a healing process and I know about the dead arm paralyzed arm. Being single not married living by yourself makes it harder to get things done. I'm having more of an emotional healing process than anything
I can imagine, is there someone that can come in and help you with a few things? I know my husband who travels out of town would cut me a bowl of fruit once a week. Though I managed to dress and bathe myself by myself from the get-go.
Lol I had mine done on the 20th of February 2024 and I hear you on the emotional healing. This process is more spiritual then physical for me. Especially I love to box and compete. So not being to do perform or do sports for 4-6 months is heartbreaking
@@LisaMoniqueboth my shoulders have full tears with the left shoulder having severe retraction. So I’m having surgery on my right shoulder first. Are you able to use the ‘ repaired’ arm to help with getting dressed ? And for showering? Just curious as I see so many videos possibly contradicting each other. Thanks .
@@JodyTrynabreak80butitstough Not initially, I think it would be several weeks if both arms aren't functioning before first repair could lift over head to put on clothing or washing hair.
@@crypticshadows how long will surgery take mine will be any hour did an extra mri they will fix my partly torn rotator cuff though it was fully torn good thing they did the mri again still nervous tho
glad your doing well mine should have been operated on too but toooo chicken to do it so now after many years isnt too bad but still hurts especially at nigh lying on them
Yes,I'm a 🐔 also .I have been dealing with light pain for years..Now it seems to be getting worse ..Last night was the worst so far ..I am on a very fixed income and I'm having to go through a charity program through Roper St Francis and it's taking a lot time but if I qualify I will be covered 100% but not the Cold machine.. I don't know how I'm going to get the money for that .. ..I am a baby when it comes to pain.. Her videos do help with the 🐔 syndrome
I have torn rotator cuff now. Just got cortisone shot to see if that helps first. Good chance I’ll be getting surgery like you. Thanks for making this video.
Good luck with your recovery! Make sure you’re doing PT in addition to the Cortisone shot because otherwise you’re not feeling the pain but you are also not strengthening the muscles surrounding the tear that can prevent the injury from getting worse.
I have this coming up in January, ugh!! I'm jealous. you look absolutely beautiful after surgery!!!! I'm going to look like a hot mess and a truck hit me!!!! 🤣😂 I'm not looking forward to this as my husband is not so supportive when it comes to anything household or in general, he will ask if I need anything I'm sure, and he will get it but when it comes to the house and cooking, God help me!!! It'll be a continual train wreck and I'll have to restrain myself from cleaning and doing anything, I'm one to push thru pain and I will have a hard time not moving that arm!! I had my knee done years ago, for torn meniscus and ya I was up and doing stuff about 8 hours later!! And never stopped!! He didn't do much of anything. The kids helped somewhat, but they had school and work. So yes this will be an interesting time coming up. Oh and I'm 58, so I'm hoping I bounce back just as fast as I have from other surgeries, nothing was too major about them, the knee was the most major thing done!! I'll be going and watching to see how you came along!!
I really enjoy and appreciate your videos. They are very helpful and educational. I am going through rotator cuff surgery on October 18th from Dr. Robb Larsen in Eugene Oregon. I was told he is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the area. I must tell you I am somewhat nervous. I completely tore my supraspinatus tendon and have a bicep tendon tear as well. I just need to know how has your pain levels been? That is my main concern. Thanks again for your videos.
My pain has been nothing compared to my pain prior to surgery so it’s been incredible to be getting better. It has been uncomfortable sleeping for several weeks but it was not due to sharp pain it’s just “uncomfortable“ you will soon see what I mean. But I was off all painkillers after just a couple of days, only taking Motrin at night and then completely off that too by the end of the second week!! I highly highly recommend a cold therapy machine if it’s in your budget. I bought mine on Amazon but that first couple days I literally had it on 24 hours. And if I did get achy it really did numb the pain. But again my pain was so much less than prior to surgery I hate to even call it “pain” I feel so good at 12 weeks, and I have I would say 90% of my range of motion back. I’ve just been cleared today for strength training and Dr thinks that I’ll be back to all of my activities by end of November which is a month earlier than pre-surgery projections.
@LisaMonique Thank you so much for replying. The VA hospital in Eugene ordered me an ice machine which I received last week. Your words mean so much and I really appreciate it. I think you have do so well in your recovery and I am going to follow by with what you have done. Love your channel by the way. Take care!
I have a near full-thickness, near full width tear of the supraspinatus tendon in my left shoulder. Although it could have been worse, I am concerned about the recovery time. I’m just waiting for the consult with the surgeon in a couple weeks, but I am looking forward to getting this done and on the road to healing.
Recovery takes a while but the “inconvenience” is the 6 weeks with the sling. I just bumped into a new friend three weeks post surgery and she was not wearing her sling because it bothered her. She’s already been back to her doctor once because she worried about re-injuring it doing something she was not supposed to. I just shake my head, i would hate to go through all of this and re-injure it because i was impatient! The recovery feels a lot faster. I can’t believe I am five months already. I just got cleared back for sports, just not competitive. I need to ease myself back into Pickleball. I hope your surgery is successful. And just think a little inconvenience now for a lot less pain and inconvenience later!
@@LisaMonique thank you for commenting! I’m currently wearing a sling to keep my arm immobile so I don’t further injure myself, and to also get used to wearing it. Fortunately, I have plenty of leave hours from my work, and I can work from home once I am released. I just need to work on my patience 🙂
Ugh! I'm sorry to hear that. I know I have a higher tolerance for pain when it deals with surgery, they have never been excruciating for me, unlike the pain the 6 weeks BEFORE surgery, which was unbearable if I had to lift my arm at all.
I'm scheduled for surgery in mid January for a full tear from an accident. Your videos are great and give me an idea of what to expect and what I might need. Thanks...
I will also be having this done in January pretty stressful!! Concerns!! Hopefully I can do everything I need to hopefully be as active as I have in the past !! Your videos has been very helpful. Thanks, get better soon
How r u going so far I'm on a waiting list atm surgeon said 12 mths 5 mths already gone wish it was done n over with I'm anxious scared not fit n have to lose weight b4 it happens.
Hello Lisa, thank you for posting your recovery journey. You are posting extremely useful information. I found your day zero video when researching rotator cuff surgery. I have a torn rotator cuff from a fall I had. I have been in physical therapy for a couple of months because it was initially believed to be injured but not torn, however last weeks MRI confirmed that not only was it torn but I "REALLY" tore it. I am continuing physical therapy in order to strengthen it before going in for surgery later this summer. I am hoping for a result as good as what you appear to have but surgery on a 71 year-old diabetic carries a few extra risks. I have an excellent Orthopedic Surgeon and he is very optimistic so "fingers crossed." Again, thank you for taking the time to post info about your experiences.
Thank you so much. Did they give you arm brace or did you have to purchase things on your own. Teach us to put in clothes after surgery, cook, drive please.
They gave me the arm brace, I’m sure my insurance paid for it, probably 10 times more than it cost on Amazon lol. They actually do have it on Amazon because I saw it for about $50. I do have another video with some hints, though I didn’t go straight into getting dressed I just bought really big V-neck T-shirts and bras that I could step into and pull up. As far as driving my husband forgot a PT appointment the second week so I had to drive myself and I Just unfastened my sling from around the neck but kept it in place otherwise and had no issues driving with one hand with a automatic vehicle. And I did not cook, I made frozen burritos and ate what I called “bowl food,” ie cereal and soup. My husband used to cut me bowls of fresh fruit before he left on his trips because he knows I like the fruit and I couldn’t cut anything for the first couple of weeks
I am actually going to have the Arthroscopy of my right shoulder which I have an impingement and also have tears. I am getting the shoulder nerve block, and I am nervous about it, but they do have very much experience and are very good Dr.s OrthoIllinois in IL. Will see what I feel like when i am done.
hi! i’m 15 years old and i recently learned i tore all the ligaments in my shoulder from intense swimming for years and now i need to get reconstructive surgery as well :( thankfully it’s my left arm, but im still pretty darn scared haha. This helped me mentally “prepare” for the surgery. I have to stay in the hospital overnight I believe, which is different from this but i think otherwise it’s similar! Thank you for making the video
note: omg it’s gonna be so hard for me to sleep considering i sleep on my side needing to flip sides a lot and stuff lol idk how i’m gonna be able to sleep after this (I guess drugs.. I was told i’d have quite a bit of oxycodone and other stuff so maybe that will help 😭) any suggestions?
I think if you mentally prepare for just 3 hours sleep sessions, then it will help you from being too frustrated. A cold therapy machine is honestly the best thing you can do for pain. I think it works so much better than drugs. And you can get one that works on a timer to keep pain down all night! I would also variety of pillows to find the best way to prop up your arm and shoulder. I found originally I needed a thin one by my shoulder. Even though I wouldn’t wake up in “pain” after a few days, it would be uncomfortable, especially when shifting to new position.
@@crypticshadowsI am less than a week out from the same surgery this woman had. Do your research online about what it's going to be like to live with your surgery and post-op care plus PT. Hopefully you've already been going to PT and have a relationship with them. It's highly suggested to sleep in a recliner because you need to sleep somewhat upright. Have everything prepared before your surgery, including your family who will need to help you with a lot of things. You'll also want to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen as well as take your pain pills on a schedule. This is a serious and major surgery. Learn everything you can and make sure your family learns as much, also. PT and recovery will take months if not a whole year. In other words, this is a marathon not a Sprint. Get mentally prepared for that. Thankfully you are young and will recover faster than most people who have the surgery when they're older. But stick to the PT schedule and routines. Your family will have to help you do a lot of things. They need to know as much as you know going into it. I went to PT the day after surgery where they adjusted the sling and the ice water circulating pad for the polar machine. You will love that machine! I know you won't have anything to compare it to, but it's a great thing to have. Your parents or your family will need to replenish the ice. We have had to get ice from our neighbors because our two refrigerators won't generate enough. You will heal in time. It will be a learning experience for you and you will appreciate good health the rest of your life!
Thank you guys for you're videos, that chair seems frightening. I would think you won't use that until you've has sufficient PT accustom you to specific ROM...
I've had three surgeries where I had a nerve block. I broke my wrist in twenty fifteen, had surgery for arthritis in my thumb in twenty Seventeen, and I just had surgery when I broke my radius bone in my arm. It definitely is a strange feeling
I'm so glad you're doing well after surgery! I've heard that this is one of the most painful surgeries to have. And, as usual, you look fabulous! Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
Thanks so much for posting this! Very informative. I'm actually getting surgery soon, too. I am wondering if you could explain more about what it was like to get put to sleep? This is the part that FREAKS me OUT!! Like, what does it feel like? How do they do it? What does it feel like when they put the stuff in, like do you get sleepy or is more like wide awake to instantly out? Could you have stayed awake if you would have tried or is it impossible? Haha. Basically whatever you remember about that part would be helpful. Thanks so much!
Impossible to stay away, they put something in the IV and you feel like its been 2 seconds but you're waking up and its over!! I do get the shakes/chills after anesthesia, it's pretty common so they usually have blankets for you in recovery.
I have the same ice machine but I’m on day 1 and the gauze pad over the shoulder isn’t allowing my shoulder to get cold. Can’t take the gauze off until day 5. Should I run and use the ice machine anyway?
When I checked out, the nurse told me to put an ice pack between the gauze and my neck, I don’t remember some thing as I was woozy, it was something about it cooling the blood that’s going through my shoulder, and that would help. My physical therapist took my gauze off at my first meeting on day two so it wasn’t an issue for me very long.
Thanks for the response! I just starting using ice in a ziplock bag and targeted the 3 areas that were worked on. I just took the insulation, I mean, gauze pads off and am going to fold the shoulder dressing for the ice machine as you showed in one of your videos. Thanks for all the advice and videos! Hope you’re doing well! Jeff
Both my doctor and my physical therapist recommended it and it felt so GOOD. No issues performing it and I made full recovery quicker than normal 😊 I can imagine someone trying to “push it“ could potentially damage something, though my doctor said you actually need a lot of force to undue the stitching. Just gently swinging was very mild.
Today I was diagnosed with full thickness tear of supraspinatus,😢I WAS REALLY DEPRESSED,can you help me?I mean get some advice.Ah how are you now after the surgery?is it worth? Can you raise your hand now like it used to be?hope you reply Lisa.Thanks
I keep saying I’m going to do a one-year postop video and never do. I have complete mobility, zero pain after a year of daily pain pre-surgery. My arm is still weaker especially above the shoulder motions. I didn’t realize it until I was traveling and couldn’t use my dominant arm to push the suitcase in the overhead bin. Then I grabbed a dumbbell and tried to lift it in all different ways and realized how weak my arm still is so I’ve been working on strength training every day now. But day to day I don’t notice any weakness because I’m not usually doing things overhead!
@@didnuucansing1850 You can't recover from a full tear...so YES, the surgery is a life changer. I didn't realize it, but I also was developing frozen shoulder because I stopped lifting my arm due to the pain pre-surgery. I literally have no pain at all 1 year post op.
@@didnuucansing1850 I would think they would want to operate sooner than later, muscle atrophy happens very quickly! I had less pain post surgery than pre-surgery. I know that’s not always the case but every day that you’re aching you can think I’m getting a little better instead of it’s going to stay the same or get worse until you can’t bare it anymore.
I had surgery this morning and I’m going through so much pain 😫😫😫 Rotator cuff surgery Arthroscopic. The meds aren’t touching these pains. I took two oxy’s and nothing. I’ll call my surgeon early
I’m so sorry!!! Do you have the ice machine? Constant ice can help dull pain. I also had better pain relief with Motrin over Oxy. I don’t know why but motrin just always works better dulling my pain.
@@LisaMonique I have the cold compression for my shoulder and spine when I went into rehab after accident. I’m icing now still on top of dressing that’ll be removed tomorrow. I’ll try mortrin. How many rough days like this 😢?
@@Smuggler169 I would say 100% but then I try and do something like put a heavy suitcase in an overhead bin and realize the strength isn't 100%....though I stopped PT 6 months ago, so it's my own fault. But I have full range of motion and zero pain 😁
I learned to use my right hand. It wasn’t that difficult because in the months leading up to my surgery I couldn’t lift my left arm higher than my shoulder anyways so I was doing a lot more with my right side. All of my products had pumps so I could get the product into my palm with just one hand.
Sometimes you’re given bad shoulders. Is whether my ortho said. Plus I have played ball since 8 yrs old through college. I’m 49, 50 in a couple months. Needing a 3rd shoulder repair(Labrum) this time. I have no biceps inches left! Lol
No mascara for me for a week now. I look sick😂slowly moving my hand to face but can’t get further than nose without pain. Right hand also so eveything is so much worse. Broken humurus(shoulder joint) 😢
Lisa. Thank you for bloging your recovery jouerney. I watched your beauty content for a few yra. I'm about to go through a similar surgeryin 5 days. Physiotherapy did not help reoair my full tear and more parcial tears. I remember watching you then, and I get encoraged as you are back in very good shape. In Israel they kerp you post op for the nighr. My husband in an MD Ansthesiologist, so he chose me a surgeon. I'm nervous, not typical me...but I an the resilient type person as you. Thank you for plenty info. Leora, Isrsel (yes there's a war here so in lerspective my troubles seem minor).
Where did you get your ice machine? My insurance is saying it will not cover it. So I am looking on how to get one that works but isn't costly. Thank you for your video on your surgery. Very helpful. Also how will I be able to put a bra and shirt on after surgery?
I bought mine on Amazon, it was a little pricey I think around $200 but so worth it in the long run. I have lent it to two different people since then…
Do you have insurance? I dont have insurance im hoping to get the surgery though the charity program at Roper St.Francis hospital her in S.C..If not i wont get it because i cant afford it on my fixed income..If i do qulify I will have to pay for the ice machine and the chair....Are they exspensive?
We do have insurance, though I paid for a recliner and the ice machine out of my own pocket. They did prescribe a motorized machine and a different ice machine but I liked the small one I ordered better, it fit my shoulder better
Got my surgery on March 2nd. I was surprised they gave you opioids pretty sure I will just be getting over the counter paracetamol (acetaminophen) and nurofen at least initially anyway, As well as my collar pain I have the shoulder blade on the back pain as well so good to know I shouldn't expect it to disappear straight away. How close if you hand bound near your body (ie when are you able to type with it)?
I would be surprised if they didn’t give you opioids as it is a major surgery! Seems like they prescribe it after every surgery and for whatever reason I have had quite a few in the last 15 years lol. Broken ankle, back surgery, hysterectomy… They all prescribed opioids. Whatever the cases, hopefully you get some good initial relief till you see how well you tolerate the pain. I was fortunate that it is not bad. Wishing you much success!
Oh as far as typing I could rest my forearm on a table probably after two weeks but my shoulder did get very tired typing I couldn’t really do type except in short spurts. It was strange I would not have thought that it would be so exhausting
Well its major surgery as in there is a big recovery time, I thought the idea of it being keyhole was to reduce pain but it can't be as bad as the pain I'm in now. Just wonder if pain relief protocol is different in the UK @@LisaMonique
For me, achey but no sharp or stabbing pain. It was so much worse the month prior to surgery. I did have trouble finding comfortable sleeping position, even in recliner. I never had terrible pain…just ache, which got exhausting too.
It really was the full six months before I could do sports. However I felt like I was able to do most things about two months. I just was very cautious with my weight limits, like only lifting a coffee mug when I was told I only could lift a coffee mug, and then slowly increasing activities when my PT said it was OK. I was gardening about two months after surgery, but again keeping my arm mostly at the side. I asked if I could shovel and they demonstrated what I could do which was pretty much just support and guiding the shovel with my left hand but my non surgical right shoulder and arm was doing all the work. It’s funny though how weak your arm is especially pushing things above the shoulders. I was under my bed trying to shove a box to the center of the bed and I had no strength to push it 🤪. The first six weeks were really the most restrictive and I just planned on not doing much and just watched a lot of TV read a lot of books and did my PT. Because I had a frozen shoulder they started my PT on day 2.
When your recovery allows or after, consider seeing a chiropractor about the pain across your shoulder blades. I've had similar issues. Amazing results.
Well I think most of the wear and tear was just overuse versus an injury. It started hurting when I was driving back-and-forth from Florida to Arizona, I’m a lefty and so I would just always rest my left hand on the steering wheel and lean towards it so I think I was just putting a lot of weight so it just started aching, and then after one trip it just never stopped aching. I went to do some light weights and my shoulder was popping when I was lifting above my head so I just thought I needed to continue to rest my shoulder, and then I started playing pickle ball And it would ache even more so I got a steroid shot. And then finally I was just jumping into the back of a pick up truck and it snapped… Of course my right shoulder I feel some of the same pre-ache popping so I worry that I will one day I need to do it on my right too. At least I’ve already gotten through my dominant arm.
@@LisaMoniqueI just had surgery 4 days ago for full thickness tear of supraspinatus and half thickness tear of the infraspinatus. I found out from an MRI about 15 years ago that I had inherited what’s called downward sloping acromions, which I took to mean my shoulders are not built like a football players 🙂, and the short bones of the clavicle cause the tendons to rub on them and cause a lot of pain. I love doing Zumba, but I think it caused more shoulder pain, so I lived with steroid shots for years. But this caused my rotator cuff to tear a lot easier when I fell against a bedroom door with my right shoulder striking it first. Just listening to your story of how you suffered a torn rotator cuff, I wonder if this is what happened to you, too. My other shoulder, the left one, will be scheduled for surgery when I recuperate from this one, as we’re hoping to avoid a repeat of a torn rotator cuff in the left shoulder. Thank you ❤ so much for your videos! They are gold to those of us going through this procedure 💪😀
@@LisaMonique My work won't let me come back till I can work regular duties. :( This means I have to get another job in the mean time after I get out of the sling.
@@SanitysVoid That's terrible! You'll be out of the sling in 6 weeks, but you won't have full use for about 6 months, though depending on what you do, you are somewhat fully mobile around the 4 month point, just at risk for re-tear if doing too much with shoulder. I've been working in my garden at 3 month point, digging and moving plants, but I can't do any tossing motion or lift heavy objects overhead.
Today I have ot he gives me hard therapy if you wont have icy shoulder you have doing 30 this 30 this i told i have pain he left me after gives me ice pack you don for today wos different person who souse gives me rehabitation naw I have pain I'm nat happy
I’m so glad you’re feeling good. I had a shoulder surgery years ago and it was the worst thing i ever had done. You must have a good pain tolerance! I’m a wimp! I hope it continues to feel not too bad. Best wishes feel better ❤️🩹
I just had it done two weeks ago ,the next day was the worst and I mean the worst but it got better with each day. They gave me 21 Lora tabs 7.5's for the pain, it's a bit stiff in the morning but by noon I can lift my arm straight up over my head.
Oh that’s great range of motion for 2 weeks! Glad you got the pain under control. I know for some reason, my pain tolerance is high…
Hi Lisa - Over the past year I have had both of my shoulders totally replaced and I wanted to let you know that your videos are living on and still helping others on similar journeys as yours. Not only did you give terrific "prep" ideas, your positivity, honesty, and step by step recovery were inspiring. I had a wonderful experience with both shoulders and you were on my journey with me right from the beginning and I will be forever grateful. Just wanted to say THANK YOU for taking the time to pull these videos together amidst your own recovery. Quite a feat ! May God bless you.
Wow! Thank you Sylvia. I'm glad your replacement went so well too!
Hey what happened to bring about both shoulder surgery,I saw an orthopedic he gave me an injection
I had rotator cuff surgery on my arm February the 13th 2024 and I'm dealing with a healing process and I know about the dead arm paralyzed arm. Being single not married living by yourself makes it harder to get things done. I'm having more of an emotional healing process than anything
I can imagine, is there someone that can come in and help you with a few things? I know my husband who travels out of town would cut me a bowl of fruit once a week. Though I managed to dress and bathe myself by myself from the get-go.
Lol I had mine done on the 20th of February 2024 and I hear you on the emotional healing. This process is more spiritual then physical for me. Especially I love to box and compete. So not being to do perform or do sports for 4-6 months is heartbreaking
And you are yet to recover since surgery??😮😮
@@LisaMoniqueboth my shoulders have full tears with the left shoulder having severe retraction. So I’m having surgery on my right shoulder first. Are you able to use the ‘ repaired’ arm to help with getting dressed ? And for showering? Just curious as I see so many videos possibly contradicting each other. Thanks .
@@JodyTrynabreak80butitstough Not initially, I think it would be several weeks if both arms aren't functioning before first repair could lift over head to put on clothing or washing hair.
I'm having the surgery in about 3 weeks, so your videos are helping out. Thank you for this
Good luck with your surgery and recovery 😊
omg same!! Surgery Buddies? Mines on jan 3rd :D
@@crypticshadows how long will surgery take mine will be any hour did an extra mri they will fix my partly torn rotator cuff though it was fully torn good thing they did the mri again still nervous tho
@crypticshadows hope your surgery goes well, my friend
@@ayayaycholonollores4814 mine will take around 2 hours because I am getting my labrum and cartilage repaired! good luck!
I’ve had rotator cuff surgeries on both shoulders and biceps muscle cut out (1st-1992, 2nd-2018) up for another one now.
Best wishes and prayers for a safe and speedy recovery!
Take care and wishing you a speedy recovery!
Getting MRI in two days. Probably surgery. I too also have the shoulder blade pain that actually radiates to my chest. Thank you for mentioning this.
glad your doing well mine should have been operated on too but toooo chicken to do it so now after many years isnt too bad but still hurts especially at nigh lying on them
Yes,I'm a 🐔 also .I have been dealing with light pain for years..Now it seems to be getting worse ..Last night was the worst so far ..I am on a very fixed income and I'm having to go through a charity program through Roper St Francis and it's taking a lot time but if I qualify I will be covered 100% but not the Cold machine..
I don't know how I'm going to get the money for that .. ..I am a baby when it comes to pain..
Her videos do help with the 🐔 syndrome
Wishing you good and speedy recovery 😊
I have torn rotator cuff now. Just got cortisone shot to see if that helps first. Good chance I’ll be getting surgery like you. Thanks for making this video.
Good luck with your recovery! Make sure you’re doing PT in addition to the Cortisone shot because otherwise you’re not feeling the pain but you are also not strengthening the muscles surrounding the tear that can prevent the injury from getting worse.
I have this coming up in January, ugh!! I'm jealous. you look absolutely beautiful after surgery!!!! I'm going to look like a hot mess and a truck hit me!!!! 🤣😂 I'm not looking forward to this as my husband is not so supportive when it comes to anything household or in general, he will ask if I need anything I'm sure, and he will get it but when it comes to the house and cooking, God help me!!! It'll be a continual train wreck and I'll have to restrain myself from cleaning and doing anything, I'm one to push thru pain and I will have a hard time not moving that arm!! I had my knee done years ago, for torn meniscus and ya I was up and doing stuff about 8 hours later!! And never stopped!! He didn't do much of anything. The kids helped somewhat, but they had school and work. So yes this will be an interesting time coming up. Oh and I'm 58, so I'm hoping I bounce back just as fast as I have from other surgeries, nothing was too major about them, the knee was the most major thing done!! I'll be going and watching to see how you came along!!
I really enjoy and appreciate your videos. They are very helpful and educational. I am going through rotator cuff surgery on October 18th from Dr. Robb Larsen in Eugene Oregon. I was told he is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the area. I must tell you I am somewhat nervous. I completely tore my supraspinatus tendon and have a bicep tendon tear as well. I just need to know how has your pain levels been? That is my main concern. Thanks again for your videos.
My pain has been nothing compared to my pain prior to surgery so it’s been incredible to be getting better. It has been uncomfortable sleeping for several weeks but it was not due to sharp pain it’s just “uncomfortable“ you will soon see what I mean. But I was off all painkillers after just a couple of days, only taking Motrin at night and then completely off that too by the end of the second week!! I highly highly recommend a cold therapy machine if it’s in your budget. I bought mine on Amazon but that first couple days I literally had it on 24 hours. And if I did get achy it really did numb the pain. But again my pain was so much less than prior to surgery I hate to even call it “pain” I feel so good at 12 weeks, and I have I would say 90% of my range of motion back. I’ve just been cleared today for strength training and Dr thinks that I’ll be back to all of my activities by end of November which is a month earlier than pre-surgery projections.
@LisaMonique Thank you so much for replying. The VA hospital in Eugene ordered me an ice machine which I received last week. Your words mean so much and I really appreciate it. I think you have do so well in your recovery and I am going to follow by with what you have done. Love your channel by the way. Take care!
I have a near full-thickness, near full width tear of the supraspinatus tendon in my left shoulder. Although it could have been worse, I am concerned about the recovery time. I’m just waiting for the consult with the surgeon in a couple weeks, but I am looking forward to getting this done and on the road to healing.
Recovery takes a while but the “inconvenience” is the 6 weeks with the sling. I just bumped into a new friend three weeks post surgery and she was not wearing her sling because it bothered her. She’s already been back to her doctor once because she worried about re-injuring it doing something she was not supposed to. I just shake my head, i would hate to go through all of this and re-injure it because i was impatient! The recovery feels a lot faster. I can’t believe I am five months already. I just got cleared back for sports, just not competitive. I need to ease myself back into Pickleball. I hope your surgery is successful. And just think a little inconvenience now for a lot less pain and inconvenience later!
@@LisaMonique thank you for commenting! I’m currently wearing a sling to keep my arm immobile so I don’t further injure myself, and to also get used to wearing it. Fortunately, I have plenty of leave hours from my work, and I can work from home once I am released. I just need to work on my patience 🙂
Lucky the freezing worked for you.
When I worked up I experienced a lot of pain
Ugh! I'm sorry to hear that. I know I have a higher tolerance for pain when it deals with surgery, they have never been excruciating for me, unlike the pain the 6 weeks BEFORE surgery, which was unbearable if I had to lift my arm at all.
I'm scheduled for surgery in mid January for a full tear from an accident. Your videos are great and give me an idea of what to expect and what I might need. Thanks...
Good luck with your surgery!!
I will also be having this done in January pretty stressful!! Concerns!! Hopefully I can do everything I need to hopefully be as active as I have in the past !! Your videos has been very helpful. Thanks, get better soon
You got this! I started my slow return to Pickleball, of course with my doctors approval. No competitive playing, just gently hitting the ball 😊
So happy you are doing well. Take good care of yourself.
I go in for surgery on Oct 2, less than 2 weeks. Been dealing with this for over 2 years and finally broke down to get the surgery.
I hope your pain is gone after your recovery!! 💕
Hope you’re doing well with your recovery! I have the rotator cuff surgery 10/21. So so nervous
How r u doing so far u have a long recovery with physio have u started that already?
How r u going so far I'm on a waiting list atm surgeon said 12 mths 5 mths already gone wish it was done n over with I'm anxious scared not fit n have to lose weight b4 it happens.
Hello Lisa, thank you for posting your recovery journey. You are posting extremely useful information. I found your day zero video when researching rotator cuff surgery. I have a torn rotator cuff from a fall I had. I have been in physical therapy for a couple of months because it was initially believed to be injured but not torn, however last weeks MRI confirmed that not only was it torn but I "REALLY" tore it. I am continuing physical therapy in order to strengthen it before going in for surgery later this summer. I am hoping for a result as good as what you appear to have but surgery on a 71 year-old diabetic carries a few extra risks. I have an excellent Orthopedic Surgeon and he is very optimistic so "fingers crossed." Again, thank you for taking the time to post info about your experiences.
Good luck with your surgery!!
Thank you so much. Did they give you arm brace or did you have to purchase things on your own. Teach us to put in clothes after surgery, cook, drive please.
They gave me the arm brace, I’m sure my insurance paid for it, probably 10 times more than it cost on Amazon lol. They actually do have it on Amazon because I saw it for about $50. I do have another video with some hints, though I didn’t go straight into getting dressed I just bought really big V-neck T-shirts and bras that I could step into and pull up. As far as driving my husband forgot a PT appointment the second week so I had to drive myself and I Just unfastened my sling from around the neck but kept it in place otherwise and had no issues driving with one hand with a automatic vehicle. And I did not cook, I made frozen burritos and ate what I called “bowl food,” ie cereal and soup. My husband used to cut me bowls of fresh fruit before he left on his trips because he knows I like the fruit and I couldn’t cut anything for the first couple of weeks
I am actually going to have the Arthroscopy of my right shoulder which I have an impingement and also have tears. I am getting the shoulder nerve block, and I am nervous about it, but they do have very much experience and are very good Dr.s OrthoIllinois in IL. Will see what I feel like when i am done.
Good Luck!!
@@LisaMoniquethank you!
Thanks for this video. Im currently postop day 3. Had surgery Friday, Nov 10th
I hope your recovery is speedy and with minimal pain!
hi! i’m 15 years old and i recently learned i tore all the ligaments in my shoulder from intense swimming for years and now i need to get reconstructive surgery as well :( thankfully it’s my left arm, but im still pretty darn scared haha. This helped me mentally “prepare” for the surgery. I have to stay in the hospital overnight I believe, which is different from this but i think otherwise it’s similar! Thank you for making the video
note: omg it’s gonna be so hard for me to sleep considering i sleep on my side needing to flip sides a lot and stuff lol idk how i’m gonna be able to sleep after this (I guess drugs.. I was told i’d have quite a bit of oxycodone and other stuff so maybe that will help 😭) any suggestions?
I think if you mentally prepare for just 3 hours sleep sessions, then it will help you from being too frustrated. A cold therapy machine is honestly the best thing you can do for pain. I think it works so much better than drugs. And you can get one that works on a timer to keep pain down all night! I would also variety of pillows to find the best way to prop up your arm and shoulder. I found originally I needed a thin one by my shoulder. Even though I wouldn’t wake up in “pain” after a few days, it would be uncomfortable, especially when shifting to new position.
@@LisaMonique thank you!!!
@@crypticshadowsI am less than a week out from the same surgery this woman had. Do your research online about what it's going to be like to live with your surgery and post-op care plus PT. Hopefully you've already been going to PT and have a relationship with them. It's highly suggested to sleep in a recliner because you need to sleep somewhat upright. Have everything prepared before your surgery, including your family who will need to help you with a lot of things. You'll also want to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen as well as take your pain pills on a schedule. This is a serious and major surgery. Learn everything you can and make sure your family learns as much, also. PT and recovery will take months if not a whole year. In other words, this is a marathon not a Sprint. Get mentally prepared for that. Thankfully you are young and will recover faster than most people who have the surgery when they're older. But stick to the PT schedule and routines. Your family will have to help you do a lot of things. They need to know as much as you know going into it. I went to PT the day after surgery where they adjusted the sling and the ice water circulating pad for the polar machine. You will love that machine! I know you won't have anything to compare it to, but it's a great thing to have. Your parents or your family will need to replenish the ice. We have had to get ice from our neighbors because our two refrigerators won't generate enough. You will heal in time. It will be a learning experience for you and you will appreciate good health the rest of your life!
Mine will be done on left shoulder …in the next 4 hrs!!! Little scared, Biggest concern, SHOWER?? Can you take off all of the supports?
Thank you. I am 3 day post op. This info is so helpful. Thank you so much
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you guys for you're videos, that chair seems frightening. I would think you won't use that until you've has sufficient PT accustom you to specific ROM...
I've had three surgeries where I had a nerve block. I broke my wrist in twenty fifteen, had surgery for arthritis in my thumb in twenty Seventeen, and I just had surgery when I broke my radius bone in my arm. It definitely is a strange feeling
😳😳😳. I hope everything healed well and you had full recovery.
@@LisaMonique yes. They all did. I have a great surgeon
I'm so glad you're doing well after surgery! I've heard that this is one of the most painful surgeries to have. And, as usual, you look fabulous! Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
Thanks so much for posting this! Very informative. I'm actually getting surgery soon, too. I am wondering if you could explain more about what it was like to get put to sleep? This is the part that FREAKS me OUT!! Like, what does it feel like? How do they do it? What does it feel like when they put the stuff in, like do you get sleepy or is more like wide awake to instantly out? Could you have stayed awake if you would have tried or is it impossible? Haha. Basically whatever you remember about that part would be helpful. Thanks so much!
Impossible to stay away, they put something in the IV and you feel like its been 2 seconds but you're waking up and its over!! I do get the shakes/chills after anesthesia, it's pretty common so they usually have blankets for you in recovery.
I have the same ice machine but I’m on day 1 and the gauze pad over the shoulder isn’t allowing my shoulder to get cold. Can’t take the gauze off until day 5. Should I run and use the ice machine anyway?
When I checked out, the nurse told me to put an ice pack between the gauze and my neck, I don’t remember some thing as I was woozy, it was something about it cooling the blood that’s going through my shoulder, and that would help. My physical therapist took my gauze off at my first meeting on day two so it wasn’t an issue for me very long.
Thanks for the response! I just starting using ice in a ziplock bag and targeted the 3 areas that were worked on. I just took the insulation, I mean, gauze pads off and am going to fold the shoulder dressing for the ice machine as you showed in one of your videos. Thanks for all the advice and videos! Hope you’re doing well! Jeff
I was told the pengalum dangle exercise was bad as its creating tention gap to put it apart again ? X did it help
Both my doctor and my physical therapist recommended it and it felt so GOOD. No issues performing it and I made full recovery quicker than normal 😊 I can imagine someone trying to “push it“ could potentially damage something, though my doctor said you actually need a lot of force to undue the stitching. Just gently swinging was very mild.
Today I was diagnosed with full thickness tear of supraspinatus,😢I WAS REALLY DEPRESSED,can you help me?I mean get some advice.Ah how are you now after the surgery?is it worth? Can you raise your hand now like it used to be?hope you reply Lisa.Thanks
I keep saying I’m going to do a one-year postop video and never do. I have complete mobility, zero pain after a year of daily pain pre-surgery. My arm is still weaker especially above the shoulder motions. I didn’t realize it until I was traveling and couldn’t use my dominant arm to push the suitcase in the overhead bin. Then I grabbed a dumbbell and tried to lift it in all different ways and realized how weak my arm still is so I’ve been working on strength training every day now. But day to day I don’t notice any weakness because I’m not usually doing things overhead!
@@LisaMonique thanks for replying Lisa ,in a nutshell,is it worth it to have the surgery,bec I've read that you can recover even without surgery?
@@didnuucansing1850 You can't recover from a full tear...so YES, the surgery is a life changer. I didn't realize it, but I also was developing frozen shoulder because I stopped lifting my arm due to the pain pre-surgery. I literally have no pain at all 1 year post op.
@@LisaMonique ah but my tendon retracted that far and I have muscle atrophy that's my biggest concern,every night pains get worsen🥴😥
@@didnuucansing1850 I would think they would want to operate sooner than later, muscle atrophy happens very quickly! I had less pain post surgery than pre-surgery. I know that’s not always the case but every day that you’re aching you can think I’m getting a little better instead of it’s going to stay the same or get worse until you can’t bare it anymore.
I had surgery this morning and I’m going through so much pain 😫😫😫 Rotator cuff surgery Arthroscopic. The meds aren’t touching these pains. I took two oxy’s and nothing. I’ll call my surgeon early
I’m so sorry!!! Do you have the ice machine? Constant ice can help dull pain. I also had better pain relief with Motrin over Oxy. I don’t know why but motrin just always works better dulling my pain.
@@LisaMonique I have the cold compression for my shoulder and spine when I went into rehab after accident. I’m icing now still on top of dressing that’ll be removed tomorrow. I’ll try mortrin. How many rough days like this 😢?
@@chanellseay6235 hopefully it’s getting a little better each day. And the ice will be more effective once that massive bandage is gone.
How are you now?
@@Smuggler169 I would say 100% but then I try and do something like put a heavy suitcase in an overhead bin and realize the strength isn't 100%....though I stopped PT 6 months ago, so it's my own fault. But I have full range of motion and zero pain 😁
When it's on your dominant side how do you take care of personal cleaning?
I learned to use my right hand. It wasn’t that difficult because in the months leading up to my surgery I couldn’t lift my left arm higher than my shoulder anyways so I was doing a lot more with my right side. All of my products had pumps so I could get the product into my palm with just one hand.
Just had a second rotator cuff surgery. A bidet is the smartest gadget to have for personal cleaning!
Sometimes you’re given bad shoulders. Is whether my ortho said. Plus I have played ball since 8 yrs old through college. I’m 49, 50 in a couple months.
Needing a 3rd shoulder repair(Labrum) this time. I have no biceps inches left! Lol
Yikes!! I’m hoping this is one and done for me 😬
How did you get your eye makeup on?
Giant magnifying mirror that suctions cups to bathroom mirror! Also the only way o could get my contacts in!!
No mascara for me for a week now. I look sick😂slowly moving my hand to face but can’t get further than nose without pain. Right hand also so eveything is so much worse.
Broken humurus(shoulder joint) 😢
I had rotator cuff surgery on February 26 (yesterday). I’m in pain
Oh no! Do you have several ice packs or the cold therapy machine? I was doing ice 40 on and maybe 10 off
Lisa. Thank you for bloging your recovery jouerney. I watched your beauty content for a few yra. I'm about to go through a similar surgeryin 5 days. Physiotherapy did not help reoair my full tear and more parcial tears. I remember watching you then, and I get encoraged as you are back in very good shape. In Israel they kerp you post op for the nighr. My husband in an MD Ansthesiologist, so he chose me a surgeon. I'm nervous, not typical me...but I an the resilient type person as you. Thank you for plenty info. Leora, Isrsel (yes there's a war here so in lerspective my troubles seem minor).
Good luck with your surgery. I hope your recovery is as quick and as pain free as possible!
Good luck sis!!❤
Get well soon beautiful lady
Did you still have to put water in the ice machine to use the water bottles?
Yes but I only changed it out once! The water gets ice cold and circulated through the pad, so there is a “fill” line for water.
Thank you!!
Where did you get your ice machine? My insurance is saying it will not cover it. So I am looking on how to get one that works but isn't costly. Thank you for your video on your surgery. Very helpful. Also how will I be able to put a bra and shirt on after surgery?
I bought mine on Amazon, it was a little pricey I think around $200 but so worth it in the long run. I have lent it to two different people since then…
Do you have insurance? I dont have insurance im hoping to get the surgery though the charity program at Roper St.Francis hospital her in S.C..If not i wont get it because i cant afford it on my fixed income..If i do qulify I will have to pay for the ice machine and the chair....Are they exspensive?
We do have insurance, though I paid for a recliner and the ice machine out of my own pocket. They did prescribe a motorized machine and a different ice machine but I liked the small one I ordered better, it fit my shoulder better
Got my surgery on March 2nd. I was surprised they gave you opioids pretty sure I will just be getting over the counter paracetamol (acetaminophen) and nurofen at least initially anyway, As well as my collar pain I have the shoulder blade on the back pain as well so good to know I shouldn't expect it to disappear straight away.
How close if you hand bound near your body (ie when are you able to type with it)?
I would be surprised if they didn’t give you opioids as it is a major surgery! Seems like they prescribe it after every surgery and for whatever reason I have had quite a few in the last 15 years lol. Broken ankle, back surgery, hysterectomy… They all prescribed opioids. Whatever the cases, hopefully you get some good initial relief till you see how well you tolerate the pain. I was fortunate that it is not bad. Wishing you much success!
Oh as far as typing I could rest my forearm on a table probably after two weeks but my shoulder did get very tired typing I couldn’t really do type except in short spurts. It was strange I would not have thought that it would be so exhausting
Well its major surgery as in there is a big recovery time, I thought the idea of it being keyhole was to reduce pain but it can't be as bad as the pain I'm in now. Just wonder if pain relief protocol is different in the UK @@LisaMonique
I confirmed in the UK opioids are not given out as standard but only if other painkillers/ice don't work @@LisaMonique
Where’s the recliner from? I’ll need to purchase one soon and I want something super comfortable.
Amazon!
How bad was the pain the day after?😊
For me, achey but no sharp or stabbing pain. It was so much worse the month prior to surgery. I did have trouble finding comfortable sleeping position, even in recliner. I never had terrible pain…just ache, which got exhausting too.
Hello, how long were you in sling?
7 weeks, I could have been cleared after 6 weeks but I was travelling
Are your fully recovered yet ? I'm going in February 5th
Yes!! Fully recovered, full range of motion and cleared for sports!! Best of all, no pain at all after playing pickleball!
@LisaMonique 👍 looking forward to the no pain part of it. 😄
@@LisaMonique so how long was your recovery ?
It really was the full six months before I could do sports. However I felt like I was able to do most things about two months. I just was very cautious with my weight limits, like only lifting a coffee mug when I was told I only could lift a coffee mug, and then slowly increasing activities when my PT said it was OK. I was gardening about two months after surgery, but again keeping my arm mostly at the side. I asked if I could shovel and they demonstrated what I could do which was pretty much just support and guiding the shovel with my left hand but my non surgical right shoulder and arm was doing all the work. It’s funny though how weak your arm is especially pushing things above the shoulders. I was under my bed trying to shove a box to the center of the bed and I had no strength to push it 🤪. The first six weeks were really the most restrictive and I just planned on not doing much and just watched a lot of TV read a lot of books and did my PT. Because I had a frozen shoulder they started my PT on day 2.
@LisaMonique thanks, sounds like the next few months are going to be a lot of work
When your recovery allows or after, consider seeing a chiropractor about the pain across your shoulder blades. I've had similar issues. Amazing results.
Hello and I’m very new to your channel - - just subscribed. ☺️ May I know how you injured your left shoulder please?
Well I think most of the wear and tear was just overuse versus an injury. It started hurting when I was driving back-and-forth from Florida to Arizona, I’m a lefty and so I would just always rest my left hand on the steering wheel and lean towards it so I think I was just putting a lot of weight so it just started aching, and then after one trip it just never stopped aching. I went to do some light weights and my shoulder was popping when I was lifting above my head so I just thought I needed to continue to rest my shoulder, and then I started playing pickle ball And it would ache even more so I got a steroid shot. And then finally I was just jumping into the back of a pick up truck and it snapped… Of course my right shoulder I feel some of the same pre-ache popping so I worry that I will one day I need to do it on my right too. At least I’ve already gotten through my dominant arm.
@@LisaMoniqueI just had surgery 4 days ago for full thickness tear of supraspinatus and half thickness tear of the infraspinatus. I found out from an MRI about 15 years ago that I had inherited what’s called downward sloping acromions, which I took to mean my shoulders are not built like a football players 🙂, and the short bones of the clavicle cause the tendons to rub on them and cause a lot of pain. I love doing Zumba, but I think it caused more shoulder pain, so I lived with steroid shots for years. But this caused my rotator cuff to tear a lot easier when I fell against a bedroom door with my right shoulder striking it first. Just listening to your story of how you suffered a torn rotator cuff, I wonder if this is what happened to you, too. My other shoulder, the left one, will be scheduled for surgery when I recuperate from this one, as we’re hoping to avoid a repeat of a torn rotator cuff in the left shoulder. Thank you ❤ so much for your videos! They are gold to those of us going through this procedure 💪😀
Pine olmost 4 week after surgery it's is normal?
Yes it is, I am fortunate that I do not have any but it is very normal
I can't seem to find any videos on how the f*** I am supposed to make a living not able to work for a year!
😔😔😔 I’m not sure what career you are in, hopefully you can do something modified.
@@LisaMonique My work won't let me come back till I can work regular duties. :( This means I have to get another job in the mean time after I get out of the sling.
@@SanitysVoid That's terrible! You'll be out of the sling in 6 weeks, but you won't have full use for about 6 months, though depending on what you do, you are somewhat fully mobile around the 4 month point, just at risk for re-tear if doing too much with shoulder. I've been working in my garden at 3 month point, digging and moving plants, but I can't do any tossing motion or lift heavy objects overhead.
@@LisaMonique I worked for an ammunition plant. HR told me COBRA will cost 1000 a month for wife and I.
@@SanitysVoid 😳
Today I have ot he gives me hard therapy if you wont have icy shoulder you have doing 30 this 30 this i told i have pain he left me after gives me ice pack you don for today wos different person who souse gives me rehabitation naw I have pain I'm nat happy
😳😳😳
Hello beautiful Lisa 😍
Don’t compare yours to a true injury.
🙄🙄🙄 not sure where you’re going with this. A full tear rotator cuff is pretty much a “real injury”
@@LisaMoniquealso, if you need to have surgery, clearly it’s real injury haha !
A torn rotator cuff is a real injury u clown
I’m so glad you’re feeling good. I had a shoulder surgery years ago and it was the worst thing i ever had done. You must have a good pain tolerance! I’m a wimp! I hope it continues to feel not too bad. Best wishes feel better ❤️🩹
Wishing you a full recovery!