In a previous article, we laid out some initial strengthening exercises that can help boost recovery after a shoulder procedure. In this article, we are going to look at some phase II strengthening exercises that can help speed up your recovery after shoulder surgery. These shoulder exercises are designed to strengthen the external rotators and elevators of your shoulder. They should be performed in sets of ten, twice a day. Hold the position for at least 5 seconds.
Strengthening Elevators Against Gravity
Stand erect and use the power of the non-operative arm to lift the weak arm straight overhead. Use no weights. Release the weak arm, lowering it gradually and steadily. Do not, however, attempt to lift the weak arm by itself.
Strengthening Rotator Cuff and Elevators Against Gravity
Once you can do exercise 1 smoothly ten times, begin lifting ½ pound weight increments with the weak arm, using the non-operative arm to lift the weight. As before, remove the supporting arm and lower the weak arm by itself. Only when you can lower 3 to 5 pounds with good control, may you lift the weak arm by itself.
Shoulder Surgery & Recovery in Knoxville, TN
This information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice about a specific medical condition. They will be able to give you specific post-op instructions tailored to fit your exact needs. If you are living life with chronic shoulder pain, shoulder surgery may be a good option to get you back to doing the things you love, pain free! Contact Dr. Holloway’s clinic today to learn more about the shoulder conditions we treat and see if you are a good candidate for shoulder surgery.
