Improving My Foot Health

Posted on: 28 January 2021

The joints in the body are what allow a human being to have a full range of motion. Unfortunately, not all joints will remain in good health for a person's lifetime. One joint that can experience a lot of problems is the shoulder. If you have had numerous problems with one of your shoulders and it is not healing through non-invasive treatment, your doctor may recommend that you have shoulder replacement surgery. When shoulder replacement surgery is performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon, the outcomes are typically good. However, like any other major surgery, there is a recovery period after a shoulder replacement procedure. Use the following tips to help you recover after you undergo surgery for a shoulder replacement.

Make Sure That You Arrange to Have Help at Home

After shoulder replacement surgery, you will not be able to use the arm of the shoulder that has been operated on — you will need to limit the mobility of your arm as your shoulder heals. It can be very difficult or even impossible to do everyday tasks with only one arm, which is why it is in your best interest to make sure that you have a friend or family member available to help you after your surgery. You will need someone to drive you places and assist with preparing meals, doing household chores, and helping you dress.

Sleep Well

As you heal from shoulder replacement surgery, you may need to change the way that you sleep. Your doctor will most likely recommend that you wear a sling while sleeping — make sure to do this to ensure that your arm and shoulder are immobilized. You should also plan on sleeping on your side, with your weight on the side of your body that was not operated on. It can be helpful to prop up your operated shoulder with pillows for comfort and to help reduce swelling.

Commit to Physical Therapy

When you have shoulder replacement surgery, physical therapy sessions are essential for a full recovery. In most cases, regular sessions with a physical therapist will begin a couple of weeks after your surgery. Physical therapy sessions may not be fun, and some of the exercises that your therapist asks you to perform may be uncomfortable, but physical therapy will strengthen your shoulder and help restore a full range of motion to the joint. Being committed to physical therapy will help ensure that you make a full recovery in a timely manner. 

For more information, talk to a joint replacement surgery service.