Shoulder replacement surgery will help to finally alleviate your shoulder pain while helping you to regain your function in your shoulder and arm. The surgery consists of your orthopedic surgeon replacing the worn-out tissues with medical-grade prosthetic parts.
Especially during the first six weeks after your shoulder replacement surgery, you’ll have some limitations. Your surgeon will have follow-up appointments with you for re-evaluations, and the doctor will let you know when and how you can resume various movements with your arm.
Let’s talk about some of the standard restrictions you can expect after shoulder surgery, and where you can go for an expert evaluation and treatment of your shoulder pain.
Don’t Drive for the First Six Weeks After Surgery
Since you won’t have the full range of motion and sufficient strength in your shoulder, joint specialists recommend you don’t drive for the first six weeks. You also may be taking some strong pain relievers during this time, which impairs your judgment and reaction times.
Limit the Amount of Weight You Lift Using That Arm
Generally, your surgeon will tell you to restrict the amount of weight you lift to that of a coffee cup for the first few weeks. As you engage in physical therapy, your shoulder will become stronger and more functional – and your physical therapist will let you know what your weight-lifting limits are as you progress.
Don’t Use Your Shoulder a Lot or Reach Too Much
After your surgery, you’ll be asked not to lift your arm or reach too frequently for the first few weeks. This could stress your new joint. You will want to gradually build up strength and flexibility in your shoulder, and your medical team and therapy team will explain how to do so safely.
Don’t Support Yourself with the Affected Shoulder and Arm
When you lean forward, such as using your arm on a countertop or desktop, be sure to only support your body weight with the other arm. You’ll also want to get out of bed using the other arm (the one that didn’t receive the surgery). Resting your weight on your new shoulder could cause a great deal of pain and discomfort until your shoulder recovers.
Experienced Shoulder Surgeon in Maryland
If you have chronic shoulder pain, the medical team at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder is here for you. Our orthopedic doctors specialize in evaluating and treating issues with the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand, and we have years of successful experience in treating everything from arthritis to muscle pain.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (410) 296-6232 or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you get your shoulder back again so you can enjoy your active lifestyle without pain!
