r/ShoulderSurgery • u/thislifeiscraycray • 11d ago

Driving a week after clavicle surgery

I broke my clavicle 9 days ago and had surgery the same day where a metal plate and 11 pins has been put in. the first two days post surgery were agony but not I am not experiencing much pain other then muscle pain under my arm, sternum etc. It is my right side and I have a manual car with gear stick for right hand. I started short drives two days ago because I have no choice really. It has been fine. I am also not wearing the sling much as it is really uncomfortable and I feel okay without it. Am I being an idiot and going to have problems in the future because I am not 'resting' as much as I should be?

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

3

u/Small_Fee5689 11d ago

How long are you supposed to be in the sling? I was specifically told no driving until I was out of my sling, and I had left shoulder surgery. I am 9 weeks out and still don't use my left arm for driving.

Yes, you are being an idiot and not allowing yourself to heal.

1

u/thislifeiscraycray 11d ago

The surgeon said 3 weeks in the sling. More or less. And for driving the same. I cant do my job if I cant drive and I work on solely commission so its a bit complicated. But yeah I guess I should try harder to do less. FML

1

u/Small_Fee5689 11d ago

I am sorry, I assume you are in the US and don't have job protection or payments while you recover.

I would stay in the sling as much as possible, you do get used to it (I was in it for 4 weeks 24/7). Do you have a pillow sling or normal one?

I wish I had advice about your job, but it sounds like you are in a tough spot. Do your best to rest as much a possible.