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After Care for Shoulder Surgery

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, allowing your arm to rotate in various directions. Because of this flexibility, however, your shoulder is at greater risk of becoming injured compared to other joints. Though doctors prefer non-surgical methods to correcting orthopedic problems, surgery cannot be delayed if the condition is severe. Some of the most common problems that require shoulder surgeries, reports the AAOS, include instability, rotator-cuff tears, arthritis and fractures.

  1. Note Complications

    • After shoulder surgery, you should always be aware of any signs or symptoms of complications. You can always expect some degree of pain or discomfort, but if these symptoms are persistent, progressive and chronic, you will need to consult your doctor to be sure that the surgery was successful. Other signs of complications, according to the AAOS, include fever two days after the surgery; redness, tenderness, and warmth that could indicate an infection; unusual bleeding that could be a sign of a wound; and arm or hand tingling and numbness that could point to nerve damage.

    Daily Activities

    • Though many of your daily activities can remain the same, some of your simpler chores may suddenly become complicated. You will need to give your recovering arm and shoulder time to rest. ShoulderSurgeon.com, a website operated by orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists, has these suggestions for shoulder surgery aftercare: Wear loose-fitting tops that you can easily pull over your head or that button up the front. Wearing a bra should not affect your shoulder. Wear slip-on shoes and avoid wearing socks unless you can easily put them on with one hand. Do not soak your wound in the shower. Taking baths may be easier in the days after surgery. You also can cover the incision with plastic dressing to keep it dry in the shower. If you need help with daily activities, have a caregiver or family member help you.

    Physical Therapy

    • Depending on the type of surgery you have, your physical therapist will come up with a therapeutic routine that either strengthens the shoulder, strengthens the muscles around the shoulder or targets your particular, individual needs. Performance Orthopedics, an orthopedic practice in Bingham Farms, Michigan, offers some of these general physical-therapy guidelines after shoulder surgery: You may be encouraged to stop using your stabilizing sling. For some patients, this is the most difficult part of the recovery process, since they will be starting to work through the post-operative pain. You will need to resist making quick, sudden movements, as well as repetitive movements. Over-reaching and lifting items more than a few pounds is discouraged. Until you can comfortably use both arms, your physical therapist will suggest that you do not drive.

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