Navigating Recovery After Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy often involves procedures like rotator cuff repair and bicep tendonitis adjustments. Recovery from such surgeries is crucial for restoring function and minimizing pain. Dr. Jay outlines essential post-operative care tips and exercises to facilitate a smooth recovery:

Immediate Post-Op Care:

• Patients typically wear a shoulder sling which is removed the day after surgery to start gentle exercises.
• Initial exercises include elbow straightening and bending, hand squeezing, and wrist rotations which aid in reducing swelling and keeping the muscles active.

Exercises to Enhance Recovery:

• Pendulum and Cadman Exercises: These are simple yet effective exercises that involve leaning and steering motions to stimulate the shoulder gently, helping to prevent scar tissue formation.
• Regularly perform these exercises to ensure mobility and reduce chances of complications such as blood clots.

Pain Management and Prophylaxis:

• Aspirin is recommended post-surgery to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), provided there are no allergies.
• Pain is managed with Tylenol and Naproxen, and cold therapy systems are utilized to reduce swelling and the need for narcotics.

Post-Surgery Wound Care:

• Bulky dressings are removed two days post-surgery, followed by steady strips which fall off naturally.
• Patients are advised to keep the surgical area clean and dry, avoid direct application of any substances that might increase infection risks, and are able to shower three days post-operation.

Activity Guidelines:

• Light activities like brushing teeth, washing faces, and eating are encouraged immediately post-surgery, with weight restrictions of under five pounds for the first six weeks.
• Progression to more strenuous activities should be gradual, following pain tolerance and healing progress.

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FAQ Section for Post-Op Shoulder Arthroscopy

Q: How soon after shoulder arthroscopy can I remove the sling?

A: The sling used post-surgery is typically removed the day after surgery to begin gentle exercises.

Q: What exercises are safe immediately after shoulder arthroscopy?

A: Initial safe exercises include gentle elbow flexion and extension, hand squeezing, wrist rotations, and pendulum exercises to encourage mobility and reduce swelling.

Q: When is it safe to shower after shoulder arthroscopy?

A: You can shower three days after surgery, once the bulky dressings have been removed. Ensure not to immerse the wound in water or go swimming until at least a month post-surgery.

Q: What are the guidelines for lifting weights post-shoulder arthroscopy?

A: For the first six weeks post-surgery, it’s advised to limit lifting to under five pounds. Gradually increase as tolerated.