Shoulder Adhesions and Calcific Tendinitis Recovery Time - Orthopedics

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After undergoing arthroscopic surgery and joint release for shoulder adhesions and calcific tendinitis, it is not uncommon to experience pain and discomfort in the shoulder and arm during the recovery process. Your mother's situation, where she is still feeling pain and tightness three weeks post-surgery, can be considered a normal part of the healing process, especially given the nature of the surgery and the underlying conditions being treated.

Shoulder adhesions, often referred to as "frozen shoulder" or adhesive capsulitis, can lead to significant stiffness and pain. The surgical intervention aims to release these adhesions, but the recovery can be gradual. The presence of calcific tendinitis adds another layer of complexity to the recovery, as it involves inflammation and calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons, which can also contribute to pain and limited range of motion.

Typically, the recovery timeline can vary significantly from patient to patient. In general, after shoulder surgery, patients may expect to see gradual improvement over several weeks to months. The initial phase of recovery often involves managing pain and inflammation, which can take a few weeks. Physical therapy is crucial during this time to help regain range of motion and strength.
In your mother's case, since she can lift her arm to neck level, this is a positive sign of progress. However, the tightness and discomfort she is experiencing indicate that her shoulder is still healing. It is essential to continue with physical therapy, as it can help improve flexibility and strength. The therapist may employ various techniques, including passive and active range-of-motion exercises, stretching, and strengthening exercises tailored to her specific needs.

Regarding the timeline for recovery, while some patients may start to feel significantly better within six to eight weeks post-surgery, others may take several months to achieve optimal function. It is not unusual for patients to experience lingering discomfort for up to six months or longer, especially if they had significant adhesions or other complicating factors before surgery.

To ensure a smooth recovery, it is vital for your mother to adhere to her rehabilitation program and communicate any concerns with her healthcare provider. If the pain persists or worsens, or if she experiences new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult her surgeon or physical therapist for further evaluation. They may recommend adjustments to her rehabilitation plan or additional interventions, such as corticosteroid injections, to help manage inflammation and pain.

In summary, while your mother's ongoing pain and tightness are concerning, they are not uncommon after shoulder surgery for adhesions and calcific tendinitis. With continued rehabilitation and proper management, she should gradually improve over the coming weeks and months. Patience and adherence to her recovery plan will be key to her successful rehabilitation.