3 weeks post op
 

Well, I am three weeks out now. I still have a numb shoulder and some pain in shoulder and neck. I know I have a lot of tight muscles from the surgery and I still can not stretch the neck because of the stitches and incision. My hand does not tingle as much and no pain in hand. I have had some sore forearms but that comes and goes. I started PT this week and she did most soft tissue massage. I have a ton of knots and still inflammation from the surgery. I had a couple days of dizziness which I am sure is from tight traps and scm, but at times when it relaxes I have noticed less pressure in ears which I have not felt for years. I know the nerves are coming back because I get a zap now and then which I believe and was told thats the nerve coming back to life.

Hang in there - you have a ways to go yet. Do gentle stretching, use heat/ice as you feel the need, take your meds on time. Are you taking any type of anti-inflamatory? If not, I like Aleve over other OTC meds for swelling.

Be patient!

yes I have been taking meds...aleve and gabapentin...just started PT and muscles in neck are pretty tight. I have some winging in scapula, and when I try to squeeze shoulders blades, my left is so weak. I f i hold the squeeze to long, my left side starts to tingle. I know I have a ways to go.

Glad to hear pain in hand has lessened. I was also given valium to help relax the tight muscles. It was a huge help for me. Stay positive - even the smallest improvements are still improvements!! :)

Also, may help if your therapist can tape your shoulders back. My therapist had to mobilize my shoulder and scapula a little (non aggressive to start), but then taped my shoulders back to help with support. I know I'm also very weak on my right side. The athletic tape makes a world of difference.

I have an intellskin shirt that does help. I have not worn it since the surgery, but now that the incision is healing nicely I should start wearing it again.