Shoulder Replacement Recovery

Exercises to Aid Recovery After Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Recovering after shoulder replacement surgery involves physical activity. However, it’s essential to start slow and gradually increase the intensity of your exercises as per doctor’s advice. Here are some exercises that could help in your recovery process:

• Pendulum Exercise: Stand next to a table or chair and place your non-operated hand on it for support. Lean forward slightly, letting your operated arm hang down freely. Gently swing your arm in small circles, about the size of a dinner plate. Do 10 circles in each direction (clockwise and counterclockwise).
• Assisted Shoulder Flexion: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Hold a stick (like a broom handle) with both hands, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart. Use your non-operated arm to lift your operated arm by raising the stick over your head. Raise your arms until you feel a gentle stretch in the operated shoulder, not pain. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your arms back to the starting position.
• Isometric Shoulder External Rotation: Stand or sit with your elbow of the operated arm bent at a right angle (90 degrees) and close to your body. Press the back of your hand against a wall or door frame. Gently push your hand against the wall without moving your elbow, holding the tension in your shoulder. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
• Shoulder Blade Squeezes: Sit or stand with your back straight. Gently squeeze your shoulder blades together as if you are trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold the squeeze for 5 seconds. Relax and return to the starting position.

Towel Stretch: Take a towel and hold one end in your non-operated hand. Drape the towel over your opposite shoulder and reach behind your back with your operated arm to grab the other end of the towel. Gently pull the towel upward with your non-operated hand, allowing your operated arm to move up your back. Hold for a gentle stretch, then return to the starting position.

Do’s and Don’ts After Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Maintaining a specific routine is crucial for optimum recovery after shoulder replacement surgery. Here are some important do’s and don’ts:

Do’s

• Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere to prescribed medication, physical therapy, and activity guidelines.
• Keep the Incision Clean and Dry: To prevent infection, follow wound care instructions.
• Use Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain as directed.
• Wear Your Sling: To support the shoulder during the initial healing phase, use the sling as recommended.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods: Proper nutrition aids in healing.
• Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor progress and address any issues.

Don’ts

• Don’t Lift Heavy Objects: To protect the healing shoulder, avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling anything heavy.
• Don’t Engage in High-Impact Activities: Avoid activities like running, jumping, or contact sports until cleared by your doctor.
• Don’t Drive Too Soon: Avoid driving until you have good shoulder control and have been cleared by your doctor.
• Don’t Skip Physical Therapy: Skipping therapy can delay recovery and affect the outcome.

Don’t Ignore Pain or Unusual Symptoms: Report any severe pain, swelling, redness, or fever to your doctor immediately, as these could be signs of complications.