Concerns About Shoulder Recovery: Eight Weeks After Surgery for Hypermobility Issues
I’m a 34-year-old female diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS). I underwent surgery on December 11 for a rotator cuff and labrum repair, along with tightening my shoulder joint to better accommodate my hypermobility. Recently, I was asked to leave physical therapy early on Monday due to experiencing noticeable clicking sounds and unexpected pain in my shoulder. Throughout the week, I have been dealing with intermittent discomfort, prompting me to follow up with my surgeon this past Friday. After examining my shoulder and taking an X-ray, he expressed optimism that targeted muscle strengthening could help stabilize the area. However, today has been particularly challenging, as I’ve been in a near-constant state of pain. Simple tasks, such as lifting a cup of coffee, have become difficult, and any movement of my arm exacerbates the pain. It feels as if my shoulder isn’t seated properly, and I can’t seem to reposition it. I plan to reach out to my surgeon’s office in the morning for further guidance, but in the meantime, I would appreciate any insights from others who may have experienced similar issues. I’m feeling quite disheartened and generally prefer to avoid the emergency room when possible. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 5:10:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your current struggles following shoulder surgery. It sounds like you're dealing with a lot of discomfort and uncertainty, which can be really challenging. Here's a structured response addressing your symptoms and concerns:
Main Points:
- Post-surgery symptoms like pain and clicking can occur, especially with hypermobility.
- It's important to communicate openly with your healthcare team while managing symptoms at home.
Explanation: After a surgery related to hypermobility, such as yours for rotator cuff and labrum repair, it's common to experience pain and instability as your body adjusts and heals. The clicking sounds you hear may be due to a number of factors, including muscle tightness, tendon movement, or a need for further muscle strengthening. However, the key is that you are actively engaging with your surgical team and addressing these concerns, which is crucial for recovery.
Next Steps:
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Contact Your Surgeon’s Office: Since you're already planning to reach out, let them know about your persistent pain and any inability to move your arm. Ask about adjustments to your physical therapy plan and if there are any specific exercises or modifications you can do to alleviate pain in the meantime.
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Pain Management at Home: In the short term, consider gentle ice applications to reduce inflammation (15-20 minutes several times a day), and over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (if you're able) can help with discomfort. However, ensure you follow dosing guidelines and check for interactions with other medications.
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Stop Painful Movements: Avoid any activities or movements that worsen your pain. If lifting items, like a cup of coffee, causes significant discomfort, consider using both hands or choosing lighter alternatives to reduce strain.
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Gentle Mobility Exercises: If approved by your surgeon or therapist, gentle range-of-motion exercises for your shoulder can help maintain mobility without increasing pain. Focus on slow, deliberate movements within a comfortable range.
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Emotional Self-Care: Dealing with constant pain can be emotionally draining, so try to acknowledge your feelings. Consider mindfulness techniques or breathing exercises to help manage anxiety as you continue to navigate recovery.
Remember to be patient with yourself as the recovery process can take time, especially with the challenges posed by hypermobility. Please keep your healthcare team updated on your symptoms, and don't hesitate to ask for further help or adjustments as needed. You're not alone in this, and it's commendable that you're taking steps to address your concerns.
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