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Open Shoulder Surgery Recovery

The shoulder is a joint that allows movement of the arm into different positions and is one of the most flexible joints in the body. This flexibility, however, puts the shoulder at an increased risk of injury. Injuries to the shoulder often require surgery to repair the damage and restore mobility and function.

  1. Identification

    • Open shoulder surgery is often performed to repair damage to the shoulder joint. Open shoulder surgery requires an incision, or several small incisions, and may yield better results than arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The type of surgery that is done inside the shoulder, determines the length of the recovery period.

    Types

    • There are several different types of conditions that may require open shoulder surgery. These may include rotator cuff repair, impingement of the shoulder and fractures. Your doctor will give you post-surgical instructions for the procedure that is performed.

    Recovery

    • Generally, recovery time depends on which type of surgery is performed on the shoulder. In the cases of shoulder fractures, mild fractures may require only immobilization with a sling and rest. In the case of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. Shoulder instability can also require surgery, and is usually performed on patients that have multiple dislocations of the shoulder. This type of surgery requires extensive recovery time and rehabilitation. Rotator cuff tears are common injuries that often require surgical intervention. Impingement of the shoulder may also lead to rotator cuff pain.This type of surgery is done as an open shoulder surgery, when it is a full-thickness rotator cuff repair. This surgery requires extensive recovery time and often physical therapy for rehabilitation.

    Rehabilitation

    • After shoulder surgery, your doctor will go over post-surgical instructions which usually include rehabilitation exercises. Some of these exercises are done at home, as the patient is able to complete them. Pain medication is also prescribed, but is usually only necessary for a few weeks following surgery. Physical therapy may also be prescribed for patients to speed the rehabilitation process, and to help the patient regain a full range of motion of the shoulder.

    Considerations

    • There are risks associated with any type of surgery, so it is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to your surgery. Some surgical complications may include excessive bleeding, infection, tingling of the hand, numbness of the hand and problems with general anesthesia.

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