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The First Months
Remember that it takes 3-6 months for your shoulder
to heal. Fractures heal even more slowly. It may take up to a year
to develop full strength and motion. You will have some pain and
swelling at first. Your doctor may prescribe medication and suggest
you use an ice bag. You may also continue to use your sling. Your
exercise program will include more active use of your arm and shoulder.
Do your exercises exactly as directed to regain maximum strength
and movement.
Checking Your Progress
Your sutures or staples will be removed 10-14
days after surgery. Your surgeon may continue to check the range
of motion and strength in your shoulder for the first year after
surgery. Be sure to keep all your appointments and ask any questions
you may have. Your doctor may also recommend that you take antibiotics
before you have dental work or surgery.
Call Your Doctor If You Have
- Increased pain
- Drainage, redness, or swelling around the
incision
- A fever over 101 degrees
Returning to Work
When you can return to work depends on your surgery
and the type of work that you do. You may be able to go back to a
desk job within a few weeks. Your doctor may tell you to resume some
tasks gradually or to avoid other tasks until your shoulder heals.
You recovery will take longer if your work is more physical. In some
cases, your doctor may advise you to change the kind of work you
to and avoid overusing your shoulder.
Back in the Swing
After shoulder replacement you can look forward
to less pain and stiffness. You may also have more strength and movement
in your shoulder and arm and be able to return to many of the activities
you enjoy-like golf, swimming, bowling, gardening, or playing with
your grandchildren.
If you follow your exercise program and protect
your shoulder, you'll probably be back in the swing of things within
a few months. But remember that your new shoulder is not designed
for heavy impact. Think of it like the tread on a tire: It will wear
out faster with hard use. So, you may want to make some choices about
how you use your new shoulder.
> > Back to
Recovering from Surgery
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Rocky Mountain Orthopaedic Associates Physicians:
Kirk D. Clifford, MD
Mary Beth Deering, MD
Michael P. Dohm, MD
Michael Dolecki, MD
David P. Fisher, MD
Robert L. Frazho, MD
James S. Gebhard, MD
Steven J. Heil, MD
Sandra A. Horvath-Dori, MD
Michael J. Huang, MD
Mark G. Luker, MD
David M. Mayer, MD
Jeffrey M. Nakano, MD
Michael T. Reeder, DO
Michael D. Rooks, MD
James K. Weaver, MD
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