Your shoulders can take a beating. Whether you sustained an injury in your youth, are active in sports, or have an occupation that requires constant movement in your shoulder, you may find yourself in need of shoulder replacement. While there really is no such thing as minor surgery, shoulder replacement is certainly one of the more common procedures performed by orthopedists and shoulder specialists. Still, having a shoulder replacement – whether a reverse or total replacement procedure – can leave you wondering what comes after you are released from the surgery center. If you are planning to undergo shoulder replacement, here is what you can expect during recovery.
Why Shoulder Replacement
When pain management, anti-inflammatory medications and/or physical therapy become ineffective, expect your doctor to recommend shoulder replacement surgery. The objective of shoulder replacement surgery – also known as arthroplasty – is to relieve pain and restore shoulder mobility and range of motion. Shoulder replacement procedures most often are recommended for people whose osteoarthritis in their shoulder has become so bad that they are dealing with bone on bone pain and discomfort. There are other forms of shoulder replacement, such as a hemiarthroplasty which is used to treat shoulder fractures; as well as reverse total shoulder replacement surgery, which is recommended for people whose rotator cuffs have torn completely.
Post-Operative Recovery
Following a shoulder replacement procedure, don’t expect to give your doctor a high-five for a while. In fact, you can expect a recovery period of several months before you fully recover from your procedure. Expect to wear a sling for several days or even weeks, but also be prepared to gently move your shoulder on the day following surgery to start the recovery process. Your orthopedist may advise you to apply an icepack to reduce swelling (never apply the ice directly to the skin) and prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce pain and swelling. Rest is another important ingredient of recovery; just be sure to prop up your upper body with pillows and not sleep on your affected shoulder. Physical therapy is an essential component of your recovery and rehabilitation, and can help you regain range of motion, strengthen weak muscles, and may prevent dislocations from happening in the future. Your course of treatment will consist of progressively more complex exercises that you will do in the physical therapist’s office, and at home as well. Over time you will start to gain strength, function and mobility.
Complete Hand to Should Care in Greater Maryland
If your shoulder has been injured or you are in constant pain and have exhausted more conservative treatments, it may be time to get a consult for shoulder replacement. Throughout Maryland, your hand to shoulder experts are Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, where our expert team of specialists stand ready to diagnose and treat your hand to shoulder issues. Don’t shoulder the burden, call Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online.
