Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort After Shoulder Injury

Q: Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort After Shoulder Injury

Hello, sir： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions： The swelling in your right hand is likely due to poor circulation from not elevating the limb. <br>Elevating the right upper limb and performing finger exer

I would like to inquire about the issue of right acromioclavicular joint dislocation?

The individual was involved in a car accident on August 21, 2009, resulting in a torn ligament in the right shoulder.
Five days later, surgery was performed to implant a steel plate.
Currently, the individual is at home recovering.
However, there is no pain at the wound site, but there is a frequent aching sensation near the wound on the right arm, accompanied by swelling and discomfort in the fingers of the right hand.
What could be the cause of this? Are there physical methods to alleviate it? Additionally, when lying flat, there is a pulling sensation at the surgical site, which triggers the aforementioned symptoms, making it difficult to sleep.
The individual has resorted to sleeping on the sofa in a half-sitting, half-lying position for many days, which is quite distressing.
Is this a normal postoperative phenomenon? Furthermore, the doctor mentioned a torn ligament in the right shoulder, but the diagnosis states a dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint.
Are these the same condition? Please respond, thank you!

Tan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/30

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics

Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: The swelling in your right hand is likely due to poor circulation from not elevating the limb.
Elevating the right upper limb and performing finger exercises should help reduce the swelling.
The dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint is caused by a rupture of the ligaments that stabilize the joint.
Please consult your surgeon for a follow-up to check for any signs of wound infection or issues with fixation devices.
Lastly, I wish you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2009/08/30

More Info

After a car accident, it is common to experience various forms of pain and discomfort, especially following a surgical intervention for injuries like a torn ligament in the shoulder. Your situation, where you had surgery to implant a plate after a ligament tear, is not unusual, and the symptoms you are describing can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.

Firstly, the pain and discomfort you feel near the surgical site, along with the swelling in your fingers, may be due to a combination of factors including inflammation, nerve irritation, and the body’s natural healing response. After surgery, it is typical for the surrounding tissues to be inflamed as they heal, which can lead to sensations of pain, tightness, or discomfort. The swelling in your fingers could indicate that there is some degree of fluid retention or inflammation affecting the nerves that supply sensation to your hand.

The pulling sensation you experience when lying flat could be related to the positioning of the surgical site and the healing tissues. When you lie down, the weight and position of your arm may place additional strain on the surgical area, leading to discomfort. This is not uncommon in the post-operative phase, especially if the shoulder joint is still healing and the surrounding muscles and ligaments are regaining strength and flexibility.

Regarding your question about whether this is a normal post-surgical phenomenon, it is indeed common for patients to experience discomfort and pain in the weeks and even months following shoulder surgery. However, if the pain is severe or worsening, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the surgical site), it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider.

As for the discrepancy between the diagnosis of a torn ligament and the mention of a dislocated acromioclavicular joint in your medical records, these can be related but are not the same. A torn ligament can lead to instability in the shoulder joint, which may result in dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation) of the acromioclavicular joint. It is essential to clarify this with your physician to understand the full extent of your injury and the implications for your recovery.

To alleviate your discomfort, consider the following strategies:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help improve mobility, strengthen the shoulder muscles, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises that promote healing and flexibility.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication to ensure it is safe for your specific situation.

3. Positioning: Since you are experiencing discomfort while lying flat, try using pillows to support your arm and shoulder in a more comfortable position. Elevating your arm slightly may help reduce pulling sensations and improve your comfort while sleeping.

4. Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs to the shoulder area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin.

5. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Once cleared by your doctor, gentle stretching and range of motion exercises can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

6. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon or healthcare provider are essential to monitor your recovery and address any concerns you may have.

In summary, while some discomfort is expected after shoulder surgery, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms and communicate with your healthcare provider about any significant changes or concerns. Your recovery process is unique, and a tailored approach to rehabilitation will help you regain function and alleviate pain over time.

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