If you have ever experienced shoulder pain and loss of full range of motion, you know that simple tasks like brushing your hair or driving a car can be excruciating. Our most used joints wear down as we get older. Years of repetitive use can cause arthritis, tear, pain, or dislocation in many people, including professional athletes, weekend warriors, nurses, crafters, and nurses.
Rest, injections, pain medication and oral therapy are all options for early treatment. When the pain becomes unbearable and negatively affects your quality of life, shoulder replacement-replacing your ball and cap with artificial joints-may become the best option.
You have now spoken with your surgeon and a full shoulder replacement may be in your future. These are some ways you can make sure that your recovery is as smooth and painless as possible within one year.
Pre-Operation
Do talk to your surgeon and ask lots of questions. A shoulder replacement operation is possible. You will have either in-patient (or out-patient) surgery depending on your current health status and use of pain medications.
You should consider all alternatives to surgery before you decide on any. After the surgery, you should be ready to relax. This decision will affect your employer, family members, co-workers, and friends.
The Day After Surgery
Do keep your arm in a sling. After surgery you’ll need to restrict your movement as much as possible. You should keep the sling in place except when you are dressing up, washing your teeth, taking a bath, and eating.
For activities other than daily living, don’t take the sling off. You will be hindered in your recovery.
One Week After Surgery
Do visit your doctor for a post-operation check. You should keep your arm in the brace unless you’re performing daily activities.
Stop using pain medication. A serious problem is post-operative dependence on pain medications.
Three to Six Weeks After Surgery
Do work on your range of motion. Every day, you should perform exercises starting in a lying position. To stretch your tendons, move your arm upwards and above your head. When you’re comfortable lifting your arm when lying down, move on to raising your hand and putting your palm against the wall.
Do not push yourself to the limit. Don’t forget that quality is more important than quantity in recovery. Your shoulder should move naturally without pain.
Three to Six Months After Surgery
Do resume activities that exercise the joint naturally. You can do this by running, swimming or cycling.
Lift weights. Muscles should be strengthened without any exertion. You should not lift heavy weights. This could result in further injury and tear.
Six Months to One Year
Do continue performing activities that allow you to exercise your shoulder. Have some fun.
Don’t over do it.
These tips will ensure that you are pain-free within one year after your shoulder surgery.