From show hosts Dr. Grant Garcia and William Sanchez: "Welcome to the latest episode of Sports Doc Talk with Dr. Grant Garcia and William Sanchez. In this episode, we are excited to interview Grant Kashner, Chief Commercial Officer of Nice Recovery Systems. We dive into the innovative technology behind the NICE machine, which offers advanced cold compression therapy that significantly improves recovery outcomes.
What to expect night before
Upon arrival
*Once you are wheeled into the operating room, you are put under anesthesia right away!
What to expect
Anesthesia is a drug or agent that produces a complete or partial loss of feeling or consciousness. It is administered through the patient's IV line. It causes their body to go to sleep. The Anesthesiologist may insert a breathing tube which also helps administer other medicine. This makes the patient remain absolutely still so the surgeon can operate on their shoulder.
A nerve block numbs the nerves to the shoulder. Ultrasound shows the anesthesiologist where to inject the medicine without hurting other structures. It lasts 6 to 12 hours. The nerve block helps to keep the area numb during and after surgery.
The recovery process
Physical challenges
You may experience irritation when you move your arm. You may need help with your daily activities. Sleep and overall comfort may be challenging but will gradually improve. Don’t get hooked on pain meds. Only take if absolutely necessary to limit your pain. Listen to your body and take the recovery seriously!
Try to stay positive and rest. You may become frustrated because you cannot resume normal daily activities. Lower your expectations about how quickly you will resume playing your sport. Don’t stress about ‘not working out. Feel encouraged because you have taken this important step to get well. You will make it through!
Rehabilitation
Claire Castellon has been a Girl Scout since kindergarten.She graduated from high school and has begun studying to become a nurse.
In addition to this booklet to help teen athletes navigate the challenges of surgery, she is an advocate for healthy relationships through the One Love Foundation. Claire and her teen colleagues facilitated a workshop, ‘Seeing the Signs of Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships’ at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) in New York City in March 2024.
Claire had successful surgery to repair a labral tear followed by rehabilitative physical therapy in 2023. She is reachable at TeenShoulderSurgery@gmail.com