Sore Shoulders

Hi Kristen,

A good series to try is by Miranda Esmonde White, called

Classical Stretch. There are various series available on dvd.

I found series 4 very helpful, and she also has a dvd

on back discomfort. There are some newer dvds as well.

Basically, it is a gentle series of stretches and she gives

an excellent explanation of the exercises. It seems simple enough,

but you will be amazed how you will feel muscles you did not

know you have! And you feel great after. I found out about

the series through my dance classes and it has been very

beneficial.

Are you wearing lead?

I am not wearing lead. I still have to do orientation in Ortho, Vascular, Neuro and the other services that use lead a lot. I am going to try to build up some strenght in my shoulders (I am a member of a gym, I just have to make the effort to go and talk to someone there about what I can do) and make sure that I do some proper stretches and take good care of my shoulders. I am a little embarrased to say something at work because I am still new but I will ask my preceptor as well.

Thanks for your replies,

Kristen

Oh girl-tell me about it! When we are scrubbed in, we have to position our bodies like a contortionist sometimes in order to remain sterile, hold retractors and pass instruments. I think the worst is holding retractors for a vag hyst.

Make sure that your table is at a good height for you. Some ortho tables can be cranked up so that you aren't slumping over (if you are tall) while still remaining within sterile boundaries.

Don't feel silly asking this question of your colleagues. They can offer you some tried and true tricks that they used or have developed over the years. Most experienced techs/nurses would be happy to offer you advice on this issue. Don't be surprised if one or two surgeons jump in on the convo and offer you some advice as well.

It's funny that you bring this up today, because one of the new ortho residents was asking a similar question to an attending just yesterday. The resident was commenting on how much his back hurt at the end of a long case. The attg said that he wears compression stockings without fail when he is in the OR. He said that Gold Toe makes good compression stockings, but I just use TEDS. His rationale is that if you increase your venous return, then your circulation is better, which lends to decreased overall fatigue. Also make sure that you are investing well in good shoes with lots of support. I wear Danskos, as do most of the docs and nurses on the unit. Stand with your feet at shoulder width apart if you can. Developing a strong core is also key in staying in proper body alignment. Developing your back muscles is also helpful, because you are often holding retractors out and away from you, which can fatigue every part of your upper body.

Good luck to you! Are you learning lots of amazing things in your rotations? I love the OR and look forward to work almost daily.

I find that I get sore shoulders a lot when I scrub and a sore back. My problem is that I like to lean over and actually watch the surgery and I don't realise until later when I'm sore how awkward I position myself.

For core strength-

You may also want to try Pilates. Best to take a class initially

so an instructor can correct your technique. Once you know the

exercises, you can do the series effectively at home..

In addition to great advice already given here, make sure your Mayo stand is not too high. If you find yourself having to reach up to it every time, lower it. Just be sure you can always run your hand between the Mayo and the patient. AND... pay attention....if the surgeon says, "raise the table" raise your Mayo!