Shoulder Replacement Patient Education
Shoulder Replacement Information
When you and your orthopedic surgeon have determined that shoulder replacement surgery is the best treatment for your shoulder arthritis or rotator cuff injury, we will review the shoulder replacement surgery options, what to expect after the surgery, discharge and rehabilitation planning, and how to care for the new shoulder prosthesis post-recovery.
Shoulder Replacement Recovery Time
The recovery period after a shoulder replacement is different for everyone. Patients usually stay overnight following their surgery, and then discharge home the following day. Our orthopedic surgeons perform the latest surgical techniques to relieve constant shoulder pain, minimize recovery time, and improve patient outcomes. Most patients are able to resume driving and return to most of their normal activities in three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the pain in your shoulder interferes with your ability to perform your daily activities without pain, you may be benefit from shoulder replacement surgery. Call (607) 547-3652 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
The time it takes to return to work depends on your type of work. You will be required to wear a sling for the first four to six weeks while your shoulder recovers. If you are able to continue work safely with a sling, you can return to work whenever you feel comfortable. Patients with desk jobs can typically return to work within two weeks. Patients who perform manual labor that requires both arms may be able to return to work in three to four months, but may have lifelong lifting restrictions to observe.
No driving is permitted until your doctor clears you with a physical examination.
Yes, you may. If you are traveling, inform the airport staff of your shoulder prosthesis before you enter the scanner.
Yes, your primary care practitioner and specialists will need to know about your joint replacement surgery. It is best to remind your practitioner at each visit.
Some patients report that they feel a “dull ache” in their new shoulder when the weather changes or after they spend time in the cold.
Total shoulder replacement often restores full range of motion. A reverse total shoulder replacement greatly improves range of motion, but often has some mild limits at the end ranges of motion.
It is best to avoid repetitive lifting and high-impact activities with your new shoulder. If you have any questions about specific activities or situations, please discuss these with your surgeon.
Learn more about questions to ask our specialists before scheduling a shoulder replacement.
Discharge & Rehabilitation
Discharge options will be reviewed prior to surgery. Finalization of discharge plans will occur post-surgery, once our specialists are able to re-examine your needs after the procedure. Your insurance carrier will determine your eligibility for home health services after reviewing your clinical records, if needed. Most patients are discharged home, and attend physical therapy appointments in an outpatient facility.
Ask Your Doctor if Shoulder Replacement is Right for You
Call (607) 547-3652 to schedule an appointment to speak with our specialists and learn if shoulder replacement may be an option for you.
Bassett Healthcare Network’s orthopedic surgeons offer a variety of shoulder replacement surgeries throughout Central New York, including in Delhi, Oneonta, Herkimer, Cobleskill, and Cooperstown.
