Blog for Panorama Orthopedics
With time, doing more after shoulder replacement
Note: This is the second of a three-part series on shoulder replacement surgery.
Shoulder replacement surgery can work miracles for addressing shoulder pain and improving your range of motion. But like many things, it takes time.
“It probably takes people anywhere from three to sometimes six months to really get back to 100 percent,” said Dr. Douglas J. Straehley of the Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center in Golden, Colorado. “Most of my patients after shoulder replacement seem to bounce back quickly.”
Dr. Straehley said that patients can start moving, with certain restrictions, “right off the bat.”
With gentle physical therapy, most patients can perform simple activities after two weeks. However, driving is not permitted until six weeks after surgery and an arm sling is suggested at certain times until the shoulder has recovered.
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends a rehabilitation program to help ensure a successful recovery. Here are some of their recommendations:
• Take it easy. Pain-free motion can tempt you into activities that should wait until you are fully recovered. Avoid heavy lifting and contact sports.
• It’s okay to ask for help. You may need assistance at home for a while.
• Don’t push it. Using your arms to push yourself up can damage healing muscles.
• Physical therapy. Prescribed at-home exercises will help you regain full use of your shoulder.
Dr. Straehley also reminds patients to keep their expectations realistic.
“You have to warn people they are not going to have normal strength,” he said. “It doesn’t feel exactly like a normal shoulder. But it’s certainly nice to be able to get your hand over your head to do activities of daily living.”
Patients who have undergone shoulder surgery often get a new lease on life. The procedure is intended for patients who suffer from arthritis and other conditions that make their shoulder joints painful and limit their activities.
“The goal is to improve your pain and therefore your function, improve your range of motion,” said Dr. Straehley.
The information on this site is purely informational and may not pertain to your specific ailment. It should not be taken in lieu of a doctor's advice!
