Reverse shoulder replacement procedures have become more common in recent years due to the fact that it tends to be more effective at retaining shoulder joint mobility and stability in instances of severe tendon or rotator cuff damage. This added stability and preserved joint mobility is due to the fact that during the reverse shoulder replacement procedure, the position of the ball and socket component are switched. It is a more technically advanced procedure, but it’s one that Dr. Holloway has performed countless times with successful results. In today’s blog, we want to talk about some of the things you can expect during your recovery from a reverse shoulder replacement.
What To Expect After Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Your shoulder specialist will go over your recovery in detail prior to your operation, but here are some of the things they’ll likely touch on in regards to your recovery. Here are five things you can expect:
- Weeks Of Immobilization – You’ll need to keep the shoulder immobilized for a while during the initial stages of your recovery to aid in the healing process. Your surgeon will likely recommend between 2-6 weeks of shoulder immobilization after your procedure, so don’t expect to be performing any tasks with your arm for a while. Expect that you’ll need some assistance around the home to perform some daily activities, so prepare ahead of time.
- Medication Expectations – Your shoulder surgeon will also likely discuss medication management with you prior to your discharge from the surgery center. Prescription narcotics and over-the-counter pain medications can help to limit inflammation and discomfort after your operation, but you’ll want to take these medications as recommended. Consider having a friend or family member pick up your prescription for you, and if you have any questions about the best ways to manage discomfort with medications, be sure to ask your provider.
- Physical Therapy – To help your shoulder regain the most amount of strength, stability and mobility following your procedure, you’ll need to go through weeks of physical therapy. Most patients begin their PT exercises around the 4-6 week mark, and they’ll pursue weeks or months of strength training in order to restore as much function as possible. This will include in-clinic and home-based PT exercises, so make sure you go to your appointments and follow through with your home-based exercises.
- Regular Follow-Ups – You can also expect to have a few follow up visits during your recovery to ensure your rehab stays on track. These follow ups may involve removing your sling, taking x-rays to visualize the healing shoulder or to check your comfortable range of motion. Make sure you attend these visits, because they will help to keep your recovery moving in the right direction.
- Work – Finally, the one thing we need every reverse shoulder replacement patient to realize is that one thing we expect from them is a positive work ethic. Getting back to the strongest version of yourself won’t happen by laying in bed and doing nothing to strengthen your shoulder. These exercises won’t always be comfortable or easy, but they will be worth it in the long run. When it comes to your rehab from reverse shoulder surgery, you’ll get out what you’re willing to put in. Expect that recovery won’t always be easy and be willing to confront this challenge, and we know that you’ll have a successful recovery.
For more information on what you can expect after a reverse shoulder replacement, or for help with a different shoulder issue, reach out to Dr. Holloway and his team today at (865) 410-7887.
