Have you recently undergone a reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery, or are you considering it as an option? The decision to undergo such a major procedure may come with many questions and uncertainties.
However, knowing what to expect afterward can help ease any anxieties and prepare you for recovery.
Let’s break down the timeline of recovery after reverse shoulder joint replacement. Whether you are new to this type of surgery or simply seeking more information, read on to gain insight into the important milestones and activities in your recovery journey.
Understanding Reverse Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Reverse shoulder joint replacement or reverse arthroplasty is a popular procedure that aims to address larger rotator cuff tears, severe shoulder arthritis, and previous unsuccessful shoulder joint replacement.
To understand reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery, let’s first understand traditional shoulder joint replacement surgery.
In a traditional shoulder replacement, the surgeon follows the natural anatomy of the shoulder. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, with the ball at the top of your upper arm bone (humerus) fitting into a shallow socket in your shoulder blade (scapula). The ball is replaced with a metal implant, and the socket is lined with a high-density plastic cup.
However, in a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket are switched. The ball is attached to the shoulder blade where the socket used to be, and the artificial socket is implanted at the top of the humerus.
This reversal changes the center of rotation for the shoulder and allows other tissues to compensate for the damaged or torn rotator cuff, which is a group of muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder stable.
Recovery Timeline for Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
Here is what you can expect from reverse shoulder joint replacement recovery.
Immediately After Surgery
Immediately after the surgery, you’ll be moved to the recovery room for monitoring. As the anesthesia wears off, you may start to feel pain. You will be administered prescription painkillers and prescribed two to three different types of painkillers to take home.
Day 1 to Week 6
During this stage, you must avoid lifting anything or performing overhead work. You will be advised to use a sling for 6 weeks, even at night, to prevent shoulder dislocation. You will also be advised to keep your wound dry until it is healed (10 to 14 days).
Youmay find it difficult to shower, dress, and cook and may need someone’s help.
Your first post-surgery appointment will be in week two. Your physical therapist will advise you to perform exercises like:
- Bending and straightening the elbow
- Passive shoulder flexion
- Hand squeeze
- Neck stretch
- Passive pendulum
- Passive external rotation
These exercises aim to slowly restore movement without straining the newly operated shoulder.
Week 6 to 12
During this period, you can stop using the sling and start performing light daily tasks. You should avoid moving your arm out to the side and twisting it behind you.
It’s recommended to avoid pushing down on your operated arm to get out of the chair. Your second appointment will be around weeks 8 to 10 of the surgery, during which your doctor will evaluate your healing.
After 12 weeks
After this period, you can start doing more vigorous stretches to prepare your shoulder joint for the tasks you want to do after complete recovery. Light lifting gradually up to five to ten kilograms and occasional overhead work of less than 15 minutes duration can be commenced during this stage.
Playing golf, tennis, badminton, or squash after four to six months may also be possible.
Six to Nine Months
You may be able to return to full functioning and duties, but the strength and movement can continue to improve for up to two years after the reverse shoulder joint replacement.
Reverse Shoulder Joint Replacement in Naples, Florida
It’s important to note that the recovery period can vary depending on various factors, such as whether it’s your first time getting a shoulder replacement or if it’s a revision surgery to fix an old replacement. The use of a bone graft in areas where the bone is damaged or missing can also extend the recovery time.
At the Joint Replacement Institute, our orthopedic surgeons are experts in treating various musculoskeletal conditions that affect the shoulder, including arthritis, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and others, using conservative treatments and surgical treatments. Our skilled shoulder surgeons comprehensively evaluate the patient’s shoulder condition and explain what should work best for them.
To learn more about us or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (239) 261-2663 or simply fill out our appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!
