Total shoulder joint replacement, or shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that may be needed for patients who have severe joint disease, arthritis or in cases of major fractures. After a shoulder joint replacement, it is necessary for you to establish a physical therapy routine and restrict certain activities to assure a good outcome.
Physical Therapy
The physical therapy prescribed to each patient should be discussed with a physician and should follow certain criteria based on the exact procedure. The overall goal of physical therapy is to acquire pain-free range of motion and return normal activities and use of the shoulder. This can be gained by following post-shoulder replacement exercises given to you by a physical therapist.
Exercises
The University of San Francisco Medical Center describes exercises that may benefit you after a total shoulder surgery. You can avoid stiffness in your elbow by bending and straightening your arm with a 90-degree angle. Squeezing exercises with a rubber ball can help prevent blood clots after your surgery. Your doctor may also have you build muscles around your shoulder blades by pinching your shoulder blades together and holding for a short time and repeating. It is important to only do the exercises your doctor or physical therapist prescribes.
Restrictions
After your surgery, you should expect restrictions of your everyday activities. During the first month, you should not lift anything heavier than a cup of liquid. You should also be careful not to make any excessive movements or add weight to the side affected. If you are taking pain medications, you should make sure not to drive, as it may affect your ability to do so.
Considerations
Every patient is different, and what works for one may not work for all. Make sure to discuss all of your physical therapy treatments and restrictions with your doctor and physical therapist. Following their protocols will create the fastest path to recovery. If you accidentally re-injure or hurt your shoulder, make sure to tell your doctor; not doing so can cause further setbacks in your rehabilitation.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Shoulder Joint Replacement
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Case Western Reserve University; Total Shoulder Arthroplasty/Hemiarthroplasty Protocol; Reuben Gobezie, M.D.
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Post-Shoulder Replacement Surgery Exercises
- Hospital for Special Surgery; Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery; Mike Elvin; September 2007
