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What Causes Constant Discomfort And Pain After An ORIF Surgery?
Hello! I was in a car accident 2 years ago and had orif surgery on my shoulder. 8 screws and a plate. Something is very wrong and I have had trouble from the start. There is a screw backing out and tenting from that. I also have constant pain and discomfort. I want the hardware removed but I saw a well respected doctor who told me to do several months of intensive and expensive physical therapy. Saw another doctor who said he wouldn t touch me with a ten foot pole until I remove the hardware. I am now sad and very confused. Any thoughts? Thank you, Amy
Thu, 27 Apr 2023
Hi,
It is not uncommon to experience pain and discomfort after an ORIF (open reduction and internal fixation) surgery, especially if there are complications like a screw backing out. The screw can cause irritation and inflammation of the surrounding tissue, leading to discomfort and pain. If left untreated, it can also cause damage to the bone and surrounding structures.
The decision to remove the hardware depends on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Some patients may benefit from hardware removal, while others may not.
Physical therapy can help to improve strength, and range of motion, and reduce pain in the affected area. It is possible that your doctor recommended physical therapy to help improve your symptoms before considering hardware removal.
If you are not satisfied with the advice you received from your doctors, you may want to consider seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon. It is important to discuss your concerns and treatment options with your doctor to make an informed decision about your care.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
It is not uncommon to experience pain and discomfort after an ORIF (open reduction and internal fixation) surgery, especially if there are complications like a screw backing out. The screw can cause irritation and inflammation of the surrounding tissue, leading to discomfort and pain. If left untreated, it can also cause damage to the bone and surrounding structures.
The decision to remove the hardware depends on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Some patients may benefit from hardware removal, while others may not.
Physical therapy can help to improve strength, and range of motion, and reduce pain in the affected area. It is possible that your doctor recommended physical therapy to help improve your symptoms before considering hardware removal.
If you are not satisfied with the advice you received from your doctors, you may want to consider seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon. It is important to discuss your concerns and treatment options with your doctor to make an informed decision about your care.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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