MIL looking into surgery on her shoulder, will anesthesia mix poorly with early dementia?

Question

C

calicokat Asked November 2014

MIL looking into surgery on her shoulder, will anesthesia mix poorly with early dementia?

Doctor this week diagnosed MIL with a frozen shoulder and is referring her to an orthopedic surgeon. Just today I read about anesthesia not interacting well with dementia. Is this correct? She is very early stages and only one of her doctors has used dementia when talking about her, no official diagnosis really. But should we be even more hesitant to consider surgery? (We are already pretty certain that surgery will not be an option due to her taking Xeralto,)

Alzheimer's & Dementia

6 Answers

Most
Helpful Newest
First Oldest
First

Recent Questions

Related Questions

score 0 · Answer 1

I will also add that I saw a report about a new treatment for muscle issues recently involving COLD treatment. It's quite simple, but seems to offer a lot in the field. I VERY cold needle is used to treat the affected area. The pain relief lasts for varying times. I would look into it, since it doesn't involve some of the drugs that many dementia patients can't tolerate.

Helpful Answer (0)

score 0 · Answer 2

I had two frozen shoulders at one time!!! God bless her, because it is very painful. I got a cortisone injection in each one, (Though I know this may be problematic for someone with dementia as well.) And then I started physical therapy three days per week. PLUS, I had to do daily exercises at home. It's very painful, but it does work. Within a few months I was much better and the problem has not returned! I wish you and your family all the best.

Helpful Answer (0)

score 0 · Answer 3

Thank you all. I will be pushing for PT then.

Helpful Answer (0)

score 0 · Answer 4

I'd try every other option before I'd give any elderly person anesthesia, particularly one with early dementia. Physical therapy (PT) would be a great place to start. Surgeons will recommend surgery because that's what they do and how they make their money. Get a second opinion about other options.

Helpful Answer (0)