Almost 6 months post first rib resection
 

Almost 6 months post...................feel crap!
Whether its scar tissue formation or the fact that about 10 days ago I underwent some further EMG tests due my continual hand numbing at night, I don't know but OUCH!
I'm fed up with constant discomfort/pain but getting on with it. What else can I do?!
I HAVE LOST ALL FAITH IN, 'MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS'..... I use that term lightly.
I spoke to my vascular surgeon and asked them about the hand numbness at night and changes in hand temperature etc, he said that its more likely a nerve issue. Last week I asked the same question to the EMG tester who then replied, it is most probably a vascular issue!!!!!!!???????:confused::rolleyes::mad:
Talk about fobbing me off!!!:deadhorse: I GIVE UP ON LOOKING FOR ANSWERS:rolleyes:
At least I can be thankful that my mind is in a good place ( I hope I can remain so).
I'm mentally strong and basically taking it on the chin!

What can you do?....... As Astern would say,
" It is what it is. " -------------I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THAT QUOTE!!!!!
I have always quoted it.......it says it all.:winky:
I just have to soldier on. In my case pre and post op, I have TOS.
I understand now that its my battle possibly for life.

I just have to learn the art of PACING myself more wisely. Do little and often. To try and keep the pace even on good days and bad.
The best thing I have done so far to help me mentally since the op has been attending a weekly CBT course, which really has helped me to remain focused on how to manage my pain levels.
It all comes down to routine, keeping a daily timetable in which you assign yourself tasks that includes daily chores ( not to push yourself to hard with......remember to " be kind " to your body) and most importantly to ensure that without fail a part of your daily routine includes something that benefits JUST YOU!!!!! Meditation, hot bath, basically anything that is uninterrupted " me time".:circlelove:

We are on the same timetable as far as our surgery. I am going through the same thing, where the doctors have no clue. I always say they call it "practicing medicine" because they have no clue and are just practicing on us. Recently the vascular surgeon said I would need the right side repaired probably within a year. If it is anything like the left side, I am not sure I want to have it done.

Similar timetable, similar lack of much improvement. But at least I'm not any worse and have found a great PT who is slowly but surely helping me get some semblance of range of motion back. The surgery sure isn't a magic pill, even for someone with vascular problems!

I got my range of motion back working with chiro who did ART on me, but is seems to tighten right back up after a week, especially the scm.

I'm exactly the same brmr19. I was due to have the left side done for same procedure in Dec '11 but I have posponed it due to continuing post op discomfort and I really can't see myself opting to go ahead with it.
I think it will only happen if I have EXTREME issues with it.

I agree. I just want one doc to look me straight in the eye and tell me that they have no idea, and that I just have to deal with it. They will look at me funny, but are afraid to say the real outcome. I have spent years in law enforcement and can read peoples body language really well. I know they are not telling me everything they want to.

Can you tell me who your surgeons were, please?