After enduring intense shoulder pain, you may have tried physical therapy, cortisone injections, and more without sufficient relief. So, you opted for shoulder replacement surgery. Now what? The more you know about your postsurgical recovery, the better the outcome.
At Phoenix Orthopedic Group in Scottsdale, Arizona, sports medicine doctor and orthopedic surgeon Robert A. Mileski, MD, utilizes nonsurgical and surgical treatments, such as shoulder replacement surgery, to help patients suffering from severe shoulder pain.
Dr. Mileski realizes patients following certain guidelines after shoulder replacement surgery recover more smoothly. To that end, he offers a variety of postsurgical tips.
You’ll wear a sling around your shoulder and one of your arms for 4-6 weeks after surgery while your soft tissue heals and your bone grows into the implant. You won’t be able to drive or do certain things you normally take for granted, such as dressing, lifting heavy objects, reaching overhead, or anything that stresses your shoulder.
It helps to adjust your postsurgical wardrobe to include slip-on shoes and loose-fitting garments. Arrange for assistance beforehand, so your shoulder heals properly.
Drink up! Fluids enable your body to heal by flushing out postsurgical toxins and improving tissue elasticity.
Keeping pain in check helps both physically and mentally. Take your medication as prescribed and use heat therapy to relax muscles followed by cold to reduce swelling.
Good nutrition goes a long way towards healing. During your recovery you should:
If your stomach feels funny the first few days after surgery, try bland foods such as rice, broiled chicken, and toast.
Dr. Mileski informs you how to take care of your postsurgical dressing. Essentially, unless told otherwise, you should:
Regaining your full range of motion takes time. It’s important to follow Dr. Mileski’s guidelines for movement, physical therapy, and more.
While Dr. Mileski recognizes everyone heals differently, he offers a general postsurgical timeline:
Your strength and range of movement continue to improve over time. Most importantly, shoulder pain should no longer be an issue. In fact, you’ll probably feel stronger than ever.
During the first six months or so, however, it’s important not to overdo daily activities, lift too much weight, or participate in contact sports.
If you’re considering shoulder replacement surgery, or wish to discuss other orthopedic issues with Dr. Mileski and our dynamic team, schedule a consultation online or by phone at Phoenix Orthopedic Group today.
