Preparing yourself for an extensive joint replacement surgery can be an intimidating task. If you're considering a shoulder replacement, you should have a closer look at what you can expect throughout the recovery process.
The recovery process begins right away after the successful completion of surgery. The process usually starts with a short stay at the hospital. Your arm will be in a sling, and your incision will be covered with a dry bandage.
Right After Surgery:
You may feel some pain after surgery, which can be managed with medication to make you feel as comfortable as possible. This will be given either by injection or pump as per the pain severity.
Ice packs will help control pain and swelling when placed on your shoulder. Inhaling profoundly and frequently coughing after surgery can help you to clear your lungs and avoid possibilities of lung congestion.
Ortho One orthopedic specialty clinic provides you with the luxury recovery suite for ensuring a fast recovery. Our expert doctors will provide you with a list of exercises that you can do to keep your muscles active without damaging the replaced shoulder. This will help you to prevent your elbow and shoulder from getting stiff.
First 10 Days After Surgery:
Once you have returned home, it is imperative to follow the instructions of your shoulder surgeon, to care for your incision. You may have to use pain medications and anti-inflammatory medicines which helps to prevent blood clots.
Being physically active is essential for faster recovery. When you can move your hand, start making a fist and holding it for five seconds or more and release it. This will enhance your blood circulation and should be done frequently.
During the next three to six weeks, you need to protect the shoulder so that the muscles can heal. Experts of Ortho One orthopedic specialty clinic will help you with a physical therapy exercise plan for your shoulder. During the first few weeks of recovery, Our physical therapist will teach or help you perform specific exercises to strengthen your arm and shoulder.
1-3 Months After Surgery
In the next few months after the surgery, you'll undergo a physical therapy program including stretches and exercises that are meant to:
- Build muscle strength
- Increase your range of motion
- Protect your new joint
- And help you get back to healthy living, pain-free
Taking this part of your rehabilitation seriously is essential. These exercises will be challenging to perform in the beginning but will get more comfortable every day. Around 80% of your normal shoulder function can return over the first few months, but it takes time and effort.
The Next 9 Months
These nine months consist of less intense therapy but are still crucial to the recovery process. If 80% of the function returns in the first few months as we said earlier, the next 9 months can bring the return of the final 20%. Getting the most of your new shoulder will take time, but after a year of recovery, patients can perform all of their normal activities comfortably.
Shoulder joint replacement surgery is a very successful operation and has an excellent recovery rate. Many patients end up with extremely functional shoulders. They were able to return to the normal activities of their life and low impact sports without pain.
According to the experts of Ortho One orthopedic specialty clinic, the best way to get the most from your new shoulder joint is to take your recovery time seriously and dedicate yourself to the therapy exercises prescribed by your caregiver.
Visit Us: orthobangalore.com
Blog reviewed by: Dr. Banarji B.H
Mail us: bans75@yahoo.com
Book appointment: orthobangalore.com/book-appointment
