Your orthopedic specialist can perform shoulder surgery to repair torn tissues, remove small bone shards in the joint, shave down bone spurs, or replace the entire shoulder joint (especially if it has arthritis). If you’re about to undergo a shoulder operation, you will want to know about the dos and don’ts of the recovery phase so you can get as much of your full shoulder capacity back once you’ve healed.
You will want your repaired shoulder to be fully healthy, functional, and pain-free. Let’s talk about how you can make the most of your shoulder surgery during the recuperation phase, and where you can go in the Baltimore area to see a shoulder surgeon who can get rid of your shoulder pain for good.
Dos and Don’ts of Recovery After a Shoulder Operation
Here are some key dos and don’ts which will help you get back to normal after having shoulder surgery:
- DO rest your arm and give it a break when you feel tired or achy.
- DO wear your sling as directed by your orthopedic doctor.
- DO apply ice/cold therapy to your arm to relieve swelling and discomfort.
- DO attend all your physical therapy appointments, and follow your therapist’s directions for at-home exercises and activity modifications.
- DO check and be aware of signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, drainage, and fever – and if any are detected, contact your surgeon immediately.
- DO take your prescribed medications as directed, which will likely include an antibiotic to prevent infection after the surgery.
- DON’T allow your sutures (stitches) to get wet; if the area does get wet, follow the directions you’re given to dry the area.
- DON’T remove your bandage until or unless your orthopedic surgeon tells you to.
- DON’T lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
- DON’T exercise beyond what your orthopedic doctor and therapist allow. Simple walking is very beneficial, along with the strengthening and stretching exercises you are prescribed.
- DON’T drive or operate dangerous machinery until your doctor gives the approval to do so. The same applies to return to work and sports.
Kinds of Shoulder Surgeries
The shoulder joint is made up of three bones: the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), and scapula (shoulder blade). A mass of muscles and connective tissues are arranged into a complex structure called the rotator cuff, which enables your arm to rotate at the shoulder.
If your shoulder sustains an injury, whether due to a health issue (such as arthritis) or an external impact (such as a car accident), noninvasive and minimally invasive treatments will be considered first. If these will not lead to lasting pain relief or help you regain the full use of your shoulder, then shoulder surgery will be recommended by your orthopedic doctor.
Some of the shoulder surgeries patients of virtually all ages receive from orthopedic surgeons are:
- Joint stabilization
- Fracture repair
- Reverse shoulder replacement
- Total shoulder replacement
- Shoulder arthroscopy
- Rotator cuff repair
Exceptional Orthopedic Care in the Baltimore, MD Area
If you’re dealing with chronic shoulder pain and poor function, do not hesitate to get proper orthopedic treatment. Our team of board-certified orthopedic doctors here at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder offers expert evaluation and a wide range of treatment options.
Call today to learn more at (410) 296-6232, or request an appointment via our online form now. We have locations in Lutherville, Bel Air, Pasadena, Clarksville, Eldersburg, Westminster, and Baltimore, and we look forward to serving you!
