The road to recovery from shoulder surgery usually includes physical therapy. After surgery, it is normal to experience stiffness and weakness, and some of the goals of physical therapy are to slowly restore the shoulder’s strength and range of motion.
Patients go into surgery to see improvements in shoulder function. Patients who are committed to their recovery tend to have the most successful and satisfying outcomes from the procedure.
In this blog post, we will talk about the role of physical therapy in shoulder surgery recovery and where you can go in Maryland for the highest quality upper extremity treatments.
How Important Is Physical Therapy During Shoulder Surgery Recovery?
Numerous studies have underscored the role of physical therapy in facilitating a quicker recovery during the post-surgery phase and in enhancing a patient’s functional outcomes. Patients are usually prescribed an exercise program that is individualized to their needs.
Physical therapy can help with the following:
- Reducing pain
- Increasing range of motion
- Building strength
- Improving function
After surgery, the soft tissues around the shoulder joint can become stiff and weak. Physical therapy helps to gently mobilize these tissues, which have the added benefit of preventing further complications such as adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder. Physical therapy also helps reduce post-operative swelling and enhances circulation, which can accelerate the healing process.
Phases of Recovery After Shoulder Surgery
A physical therapy program after shoulder surgery typically consists of three phases:
Phase 1: Acute Phase (1–6 Weeks After Surgery)
During the acute phase, the focus is on controlling pain and swelling, while slowly increasing the range of motion. Patients are often given passive range of motion (PROM) exercises, where the therapist moves the patient’s arm for them. Patients may also be prescribed shoulder immobilizers or slings to prevent further injury.
Some of the exercises done during the acute phase are pendulum exercises, wall slides, arm pulleys, and table slides. These exercises can help improve shoulder flexibility and stability, and prepare the shoulder for more complex exercises.
Phase 2: Sub-Acute Phase (6–12 Weeks After Surgery)
During this phase, the emphasis shifts to regaining strength and endurance. Patients may be given more advanced exercises to perform at home, such as isotonic exercises like bicep curls and triceps extensions, as well as scapular stabilization exercises, which strengthen the muscles around the shoulder blade.
In addition, therapists may introduce closed chain exercises, such as push-ups and planks, which require the patient to use their whole body for stabilization. These exercises can help improve functional strength of the shoulder muscles.
Phase 3: Return to Activity Phase (12 or More Weeks After Surgery )
In the last phase of the physical therapy program, the focus is on returning the patient to their pre-injury activity level. This phase often involves sport-specific training and geared towards preparing the patient for the return to their chosen activities safely. Patients are often given exercises that mimic the movements of their chosen activities and lifestyle.
The duration of physical therapy after shoulder surgery varies depending on the patient’s age, medical history, and type of surgery. On average, physical therapy can last anywhere from three to six months. Your orthopedic care team will develop a rehabilitation program and establish a recovery timeline for you.
Top Shoulder Doctor in Baltimore, MD
The orthopedic surgeons at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder are some of the best shoulder doctors in Baltimore. Our doctors specialize in upper extremity care and have advanced training in the latest shoulder treatments. We can treat the full spectrum of shoulder problems and guide your rehabilitation.
For comprehensive shoulder care, schedule an appointment with one of our hand surgeons today. Call our main office today at (410) 296-6232 or use our online form to send a request. We look forward to being your partner in upper extremity care.
