Candas's Posts

Hi Candas. I have Asthma, so I do use a daily inhaler for Asthma control (Advair), and I have my emergency inhaler, also. I've had Asthma for about 20 years..and had my Mitral valve replaced in March. Why don't you ask your Family Dr., or Cardiologist for the name of Pulmonary doc. They can help with your breathing issues. Take care, and good wishes.....

Candas, my heart goes out to you. I'm so sorry something tore in your shoulders. I hope the PT helps you much. I'm not sure why these kinds of issues happen after surgery. I've had a pain/sleep issues, too. Started with a shoulder specialist & 6 wks phys therapy. In my case things got worse & expanded to R side. Have let things calm down and now need to try a neck specialist.

Yes, very common . My doctor told me the back muscles support the chest. During surgery your chest is held open with a retractor putting a lot of strain on those back muscles. While your sternum bone is healing you will tend to slump your shoulders to ease the chest soreness putting even more strain on the back muscles. My upper back and neck was very stiff and sore 3 months after surgery. My doctor prescribed muscle relaxers and had me do strengthen exercises (very helpful). Also a heating pad helped too.

Candas, I'm sorry you're having this struggle. I hope you can find the help you need. I'm six months out, and I'm still dealing with some orthopedic issues that came up after surgery. The shoulder specialist and physical therapist didn't solve things and have suggested I see a spine doctor. My worst discomfort is currently above both collar bones when I try to sleep on either side. But a few months ago, the pain was more in my shoulders.

A compounded issue . Could be from the unnatural positioning and stretching on on your muscles, joints and connective tissue. Tendons and ligaments take a while to heal as in ankle stain, sprain. Another type of pain could be from insult to nerves. This also takes a long while to get better. Another type of pain, but more rare is from trapped air in the chest, abdominal cavity. The air migrates up to the shoulders. But the pain usually goes away in a week. This is somewhat common after laparoscopic gall bladder surgery. Hope your pain lessons soon.