I was banded on 10/9. I suffered with the shoulder pain, the heating pad seemed to work. I still feel very bloated and with gas, despite have several bowel movements(diarrhea) I am walking a lot. Went out today, walking felt good but had to go to bathroom at grocery store. My mom told me to wear a girdle for abdominal support during the bloated phase, seems to help somewhat. I heard of a patient done the same time as me is out golfing already. I am reminding myself, as we all should that each of us is different and will be ok when it's time for us to be ok.. Hang in there, it will be worth it.