Facing shoulder surgery can be daunting. Whether you are having a fracture repair, shoulder joint replacement, joint stabilization, or something else, you want to regain as much mobility as possible after your procedure. Your orthopedic surgeon will help you achieve the mobility you desire, but there are steps you must take to help your shoulder heal and get back to your normal activities. Here are some tips to assist you regain mobility after shoulder surgery.
Set Realistic Goals or Expectations
One of the most important things you can do to regain mobility after shoulder surgery is to set realistic goals or therapeutic outcomes. Do you want to return to doing all the tasks required of you in your physically demanding job? Are you a tennis player or a golfer and want to enjoy your sport once again? Do you simply want to reach for things on high shelves without pain?
Whatever your goals may be, discuss them with your orthopedic doctor. Together, you will set a realistic timeline for regaining strength and range of motion in your operated shoulder.
Follow Your Immediate Post-Operative Instructions Carefully
What you do in the first days following your shoulder surgery impacts your healing, overall health, and long-term rehabilitation. Your shoulder surgeon and support team recommend these important post-op tips to ensure pain management and complete healing during the days and weeks following your operation:
- Take your prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed (never change dosage times or amounts without first checking with your orthopedic doctor).
- Keep your operated arm in a sling as directed by your care team.
- Apply heat and cold as needed for comfort and to control swelling.
- Check your incision line daily for signs of infection, such as warmth, drainage, swelling, or redness.
- Keep the surgical wound dry.
- Avoid any heavy lifting or sudden movements (pick up nothing heavier than a cup of coffee until your doctor says you can advance your motions).
- Do not drive or use any kind of heavy machinery or power tools.
- Walk with a friend or loved one for exercise.
- Rest when you are tired.
- Keep all your post-operative appointments.
Stick with Your Plan of Physical Therapy
The first step to regain mobility after shoulder surgery is physical therapy. Your orthopedic doctor likely will recommend starting a detailed program of therapy as soon as possible after surgery.
Targeted physical therapy helps prevent stiffness and promotes healing of the surrounding muscles and tissues. In some cases, you may even begin therapy before surgery to build strength and prepare your body for the procedure.
During your post-operative physical therapy sessions, your therapist will guide you through a gentle range of motion exercises to gradually increase movement in your shoulder joint. As you progress, you will do more challenging exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination.
If you are an athlete, you will work on motions specific to your sport so you regain full function and return to your pre-injury level of performance. Your physical therapist may also apply manual techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization, to reduce pain and improve the range of motion in your shoulder.
In addition to in-person sessions, you will do a personalized exercise program at home. Follow this program consistently for the best results. Your physical therapist will monitor your progress in detail and adjust the exercises as needed.
Finally, it is normal to experience some discomfort during physical therapy. However, it should never be too painful. If you experience severe pain or have any concerns as you go through your care plan, be sure to tell your physical therapist what is happening. The therapist will modify your treatment plan as needed.
Exceptional Shoulder Surgery After-Care from Your Orthopedic Doctor in Lutherville, MD
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, your orthopedic doctor and support team will help you regain mobility after shoulder surgery. You’ll set–and achieve–goals that optimize your comfort level, strength, and shoulder function.
To learn more about our state-of-the-art upper extremity care, call Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. Arrange a personalized consultation with one of our board-certified orthopedic specialists (410) 396-6232 or request a visit here. We have offices in Lutherville, Bel Air, Clarksville, Pasadena, and Westminster, MD. We will be honored to serve you through consultation, treatment, and recovery.
