Surgery can be used to address many conditions affecting the shoulder, such as a rotator cuff tear, arthritis, fractures, dislocations, and instability. The primary purpose of shoulder surgery is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve mobility in the shoulder.
Recovering from shoulder surgery takes time. You may be thinking about when you can return to work and what your day-to-day is going to be like. These things are usually discussed with your orthopedic care team, but we can share with you some strategies to have a much more comfortable recovery from shoulder surgery.
In cases where non-surgical treatments have not been successful, shoulder surgery can be a solution for lasting relief from shoulder symptoms.
How Can You Make Recovery from Shoulder Surgery Easy During Work?
Returning to work after shoulder surgery can be challenging, but with the right preparations, it can be a smooth transition.
Your doctor will provide specific guidelines for your recovery, including when it is safe to return to work. It’s crucial to adhere to their instructions and not rush the process in order to avoid re-injury.
Here are five strategies you can apply:
- Reach out to your employer or supervisor before the surgery. Discuss your recovery plan and see what accommodations can be made to aid your return to work.
- Depending on the nature of your job and the extent of your surgery, you may need to modify your work duties initially. Start with light tasks and gradually increase your workload as approved by your doctor.
- Try to avoid activities that put excessive strain on your healing shoulder. Refrain from heavy lifting, repetitive overhead motions, or any task that causes pain or discomfort.
- If you have limitations on work leave, schedule your follow-up appointments outside of your work hours or during lunch breaks to reduce time off.
- Configure your workstation to minimize overhead activities and avoid excess strain on your shoulder. Consider using voice-activated software, an adjustable desk, and an ergonomic keyboard.
- Engage in light stretching and movement to avoid stiffness or soreness. A 10-15 minute break every hour could do wonders for your recovery progress.
How Can You Make Recovery from Shoulder Surgery Easy?
While at home, here are some tips that might help you manage your regular routine:
- Before your surgery, make necessary arrangements to ensure your home is comfortable and safe. Remove any trip hazards, using supportive and comfortable furniture such as a reclining chair. Avoid putting important items on shelves to avoid making lifting and overhead motions.
- If you are having surgery on your dominant arm, it is recommended that you practice doing things with your non-dominant arm prior to surgery to help you be more capable afterward.
- Plan and prepare meals in advance, or opt for delivery of prepared meals. Keep healthy snacks and water for hydration within easy reach, ensuring minimal effort is exerted during meal and snack times.
- Consider alternatives to typical activities that may involve heavy shoulder involvement. Activities like listening to music or audiobooks, watching TV shows, and walking for exercise are great ways to have fun after shoulder surgery.
- When dressing, loose-fitting shirts are easier to put on. Button-down shirts and oversized t-shirts are good options, too. Alternatively, you can find post-surgical shirts designed specifically for shoulder surgery patients from many online retailers.
- When bathing, a shower chair and a detachable shower head can make it safer and easier, and require less shoulder movement.
- Ask a trusted friend or relative to help during shoulder recovery. It is common for patients to require assistance with various activities for a certain period, particularly during the first few days after surgery.
Top Hand Surgeons in Maryland
The orthopedic specialists at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder consists of board-certified and fellowship trained hand surgeons and physical therapists who specialize in treating shoulder conditions. We perform outpatient shoulder surgery in our AAAHC-accredited ambulatory surgical center, conveniently located across from our main office.
Our team has extensive experience in managing post-operative patients and can provide you with the best guidance and support throughout your recovery journey. To schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (410) 296-6232 or use our convenient online request form. We are proud to serve Bel Air, Clarksville, Eldersburg, Pasadena, and Westminster.
