Ira's Posts

Hi Ira, yes, upper back, shoulder, etc. pain is common after OHS. I had it too and the nurses at the hospital said it comes from the position we're in during surgery. Mine was manageable with extra-strength Tylenol and lasted the first few weeks after surgery. It does get better. Hope this helps. Take care, Tammy

I'm one month post op and had terrible upper back pain. I was also told it was from the positioning on the table. My pain is about gone, but extra strength Tylenol worked for me as well as ice packs. I did take pain meds at night if it was too bad. Good luck, it will get better .

I didn't have back pain though I've read it's very common. I have nerve damage in the left hand from a pinched nerve during surgery. It seems most people have something from this surgery. I hope your pain resolves soon. Maybe once you become more active it will work itself out.

I had the same issue for several weeks after surgery. They said it was the position during surgery, I don't want to know ;-) . I think the pain was gone by week 8 or 9. I'm at week 20 and feel great, both the back and sternum (had full sternotomy for 4th time). I used Tylenol as needed. A gentle massage and brief nap was helpful too. Best wishes.

Hi there Ira. I had an Ascending Aorta repair and two holes in the heart and two valve repairs on June 9,2015. I had horrible right arm and right shoulder pain. Only now 4 months post op is it finally better but only with Physical Therapy. I didn't have back pain but I did horrible sternum pain and still do have some sternum pain. I sure do wish you well and hope you have a speedy recovery. I know its not a fun surgery to go through. Mine was done at the Cleveland Clinic.