Recovering from Shoulder Instability Surgery

Following shoulder labrum surgery, you will wake up with your arm in a sling, which is essential for immobilizing the shoulder and protecting the surgical repair. Pain and swelling are common during this period and can be managed with prescribed pain medications, ice therapy, and keeping the arm elevated.

Key Points:

• Wear the sling at all times, including while sleeping.
• Use ice packs as much as possible the first few days to reduce swelling.
• Begin gentle hand, wrist, and elbow movements to prevent stiffness.
• Avoid lifting objects, reaching overhead, or sudden shoulder movements.
• Pain management with prescribed medications and icing is essential.
• You can use your hand for activities such as typing and using a computer, as long as you are not lifting your shoulder.

During this period, protecting the repair is still the primary goal. Physical therapy typically begins around 2-4 weeks, focusing on passive range-of-motion exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist. These gentle movements prevent stiffness without stressing the repair.

Key Points:

• Continue wearing the sling as directed, typically for 4-6 weeks.
• Attend physical therapy 2-3 times per week.
• Perform home exercises daily, taking approximately 20-30 minutes per session.
• Emphasize passive movements; your therapist will assist in moving your arm.
• Avoid active use of the shoulder and any lifting or pushing activities.

At this stage, the sling is typically discontinued, and therapy progresses to active range-of-motion and gentle strengthening exercises. The goal is to restore motion without compromising the surgical repair. During this phase you should be able to do most light activities of daily living such as washing hair, reaching into cabinets, while lifting nothing heavier than a cup of coffee

Key Points:

• Physical therapy visits remain 1-2 times per week, with increased home exercise frequency.
• Exercises focus on regaining motion and light strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles.
• Home exercises should be done daily, lasting about 30-45 minutes.
• Avoid heavy lifting, overhead activities, and contact sports.

Strength and function continue to improve during this phase. Therapy focuses on restoring full shoulder strength, flexibility, and stability. Patients with less physically demanding jobs may return to work during this phase, depending on progress.

Key Points:

• Physical therapy frequency may reduce to once per week, but daily home exercises remain essential.
• Strengthening exercises become more challenging, incorporating resistance bands and light weights.
• Functional activities, like light lifting and non-contact sports, may gradually resume under guidance.
• Patients should avoid contact sports and heavy lifting until cleared by an expert shoulder surgeon such as Dr. Mayo.

Full return to sports and high-level activities typically occurs between 6-9 months, depending on the individual and the demands of their sport or job. Clearance for return to sports requires adequate strength, motion, and stability, verified through physical therapy assessments and Dr. Mayo’s evaluation.

Key Points:

• Return to non-contact sports and recreational activities around 4-6 months.
• Contact sports and heavy lifting generally resume at 6-9 months after clearance.
• Ongoing strengthening and flexibility exercises are vital to prevent reinjury.
• Psychological readiness, including confidence in the shoulder, is an important factor in returning to sports.

Regular follow-up appointments with your shoulder surgeon Dr. Ben Mayo are vital to monitor your progress and adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed. Dr. Mayo and his team are committed to guiding you through every step of your recovery, ensuring a safe and effective return to the activities you enjoy.

• Adhere to the rehabilitation plan: Following the prescribed physical therapy schedule and home exercises is essential.
• Communicate with your healthcare team: Report any unusual pain, swelling, or changes in function promptly.
• Avoid rushing the process: Premature return to sports or strenuous activities can risk reinjury.
• Focus on overall health: Nutrition, sleep, and general fitness contribute to healing.