Discomfort in My Right Arm and Shoulder Following Heart Surgery
Ever since my heart surgery on the 23rd of last month, I've been experiencing severe discomfort that extends from my shoulder blade down to my fingers. Despite being prescribed 15 mg of oxycodone for relief, the medication seems ineffective. The pain is quite intense, and I'm uncertain about the best course of action. I plan to reach out to my surgeon tomorrow for further guidance. Does anyone have insights on what might be causing this or suggestions for relief? The pain intensifies during the night. I'm a 20-year-old male who underwent a Ross procedure; I hope that information is helpful. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 5:30:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing this discomfort. It's important to address post-surgical pain, especially after a significant procedure like the Ross operation. Here's a brief overview of what might be happening and some tips for relief.
Main Points:
- Your arm and shoulder discomfort may be related to muscle tension, nerve irritation, or post-operative pain.
- Intense pain, especially if worsening at night, could indicate the need for adjusted pain management or examination.
Explanation:
After heart surgery, it's not uncommon to feel pain in the shoulder or arm. This can stem from several sources, such as:
- Muscle Tension: The positioning during surgery may lead to tightness in muscle groups around your shoulder blade and arm.
- Nerve Pain: Procedures involving the chest can irritate nearby nerves, leading to discomfort that radiates down the arm.
- Post-operative Recovery: Healing processes can sometimes cause referred pain, which is pain felt in an area away from the actual injury.
It's great that you plan to discuss this with your surgeon; they can best evaluate your situation and possibly adjust your pain management plan.
Actionable Next Steps:
-
Continue to Communicate with Your Surgeon:
- Share all details of your pain, including intensity, duration, and any changes since your last appointment.
-
Pain Management:
- Since oxycodone hasn't been effective, request alternatives from your surgeon. This could include variations in pain medication or additional treatments like physical therapy.
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Home Comfort Measures:
- Try applying a warm compress to the painful areas to help relax tight muscles.
- Gentle shoulder and neck stretches may relieve tension but avoid any movements that cause pain.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary noting when your pain peaks, what activities seem to worsen it, and any additional symptoms you experience. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.
-
Rest and Positioning:
- Ensure you're getting enough rest and finding a comfortable sleeping position that minimizes arm strain, such as using pillows to support your arms.
It’s important to listen to your body and take actions that make you feel more comfortable. Remember, your healthcare team is there to help you navigate this recovery process.
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