Pain Relief?

[fisher6476]

I have learned by now that there is no such thing as a "dumb" question here so here goes. My surgery was 18 days ago and i feel remarkably well except for the pain caused by the cracking open of my sternum. At rest I am virtually pain free, but some movements can cause me to yell out a loud OUCH!. It is that problem that is making it tough for me to sleep also. I really think that this is to be expected but maybe some of you could tell me of you experience.
Steve

 

[Kenny F]

I think the key here is "some movements". You still have to be very careful getting up, reaching, turning over in bed. My wife gave me a hand up out of my chair for 2 weeks (unless I snuck and did it myself).

I had few "youches", but until nearly 4 weeks you have a "broken chest bone" that needs to set. You will be surprised at how fast the pain drops and mobility goes up after 3-4 weeks.

 

[Bob]

Sounds normal to me. I am a year out from my surgery and if I move a certain way I get a pinch. For you the important thing to remember is dont stress the chest. The two sides of your sternum must unite and to do that they must be in contact without movement. Thats why you cant lift any weight for two months or play golf or lift weights. Driving a car and having a minor accident where you hit the steering wheel with your chest is a no, no. In the beginning as you feel better you want to return to full living but no, no, no until those bones knit and strengthen. Give your body a chance and take it easy. Merry Christmas!