Question
I realize you prefer questions on the lower extremities, however you are the only orthopedist available. My son is 28, full-time college student, works full-time. Recent MRI showed tendinopathy of left shoulder. He saw a very reputable orthopedist last week, started PT and is also interested in other pain relieving modalities. I saw him two days ago and was startled at how he is dealing with the shoulder pain. He had to have help pulling his shirt off. Complains of a lot of pain continuously. The doctor gave him diclofenac but nothing else. Since I saw my son I have been very concerned for him. He is a physical therapy assistant, therefore he uses his arms continuously. My question, very simply, is how can he or myself speak to the doctors office to possibly get something to take for pain just to get him through his work day? He is a 4.0 GPA student, working full time, so he is not a drug seeker. I feel that he could benefit from something just to get him through his shift, but the orthopedic did not prescribe anything except diclofenac.  I know there are a lot of regulations with controlled substances, but how can we talk to the doctor so that he will be assured that my son is not an abuser and just wants to get through his shift and continue with his studies? I realize this is a rather nebulous question, and I appreciate your feedback. Any other suggestions for tendinopathy pain would be very appreciated.

Answer
Dear Patti,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661, Roscoe Village 60618, Ukrainian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says,
The best medicine is rest.
Protect
Rest
Ice
You state he is a physical therapy assistant. He should modify his work, as to not use the bad shoulder, or just take some time off.
Pain meds may cloud his 4.0 GPA.
Let the doctor know & perhaps he will prescribe a different anti-inflammatory.
Hope this helps & Good Luck!

Dr George Tsatsos,Dr Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Ryan Holmbeck & Dr Kevin Massard
Chicago 60661, 60618 & 60622, Elmhurst 60126, Bartlett 60103 Podiatrists
Board Certified swimming or wearing a knee bin Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661

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