Tips For Reverse Shoulder Replacement Rehab
/
Total shoulder replacement surgery helps to reduce pain and restore function and range of motion for people who suffer from painful shoulder arthritis. The surgery has a high success rate, but it doesn’t provide sufficient relief for those who have developed “cuff tear arthropathy,” a degenerative arthritis of the shoulder resulting from a large rotator cuff tear. A conventional shoulder replacement is designed to work only if the rotator cuff tendons are intact, but for individuals with cuff tear arthropathy, those muscles no longer function properly. A reverse shoulder replacement is a better option for those with cuff tear arthropathy because it relies on the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff to power the arm. Like any joint replacement surgery, rehabilitation is a key to the success of the reverse shoulder replacement.
Rehabilitation for reverse shoulder replacement
Rehabilitation for reverse shoulder replacement should begin immediately after surgery. Ice or heat therapy can help manage pain swelling, and manual joint range-of-motion techniques done by the physical therapist can help stimulate circulation and promote healing. A sling must be worn to minimize the movement of your healing arm while providing support.
The goal of rehabilitation during the first 6 weeks following shoulder replacement surgery is to protect the surgical wound, minimize pain, reduce swelling, maintain active range of motion in the elbow hand and wrist, and gradually increase passive range of motion in the shoulder.
Exercises during the early postoperative period may include:
Elbow bends
Hand squeezes
Pendulums - Hold onto a chair, table or bed. Bend forward and let your arm hang loosely toward the ground. Shift your hips gently side to side so the arm swings like an elephant’s trunk.
The next phase of rehabilitation, weeks 6-12, typically involves continued management of pain and swelling as well as stretching and strengthening exercises to gently increase range of motion and restore strength to the muscles around the shoulder joint.
Exercises during this phase may include:
Shoulder flexion - Lie on your back. Hold a stick in both hands. Raise your arms up and overhead. In the earlier weeks, your physical therapist may instruct you to use your healthy arm to raise your operated arm up and overhead.
Scap retraction - With your spine in a neutral position, squeeze your shoulder blades together without allowing your shoulders to shrug upward.
Back towel stretch - Grasp a towel in both hands. Put the operated hand behind your back and use the healthy arm to gently pull the operated arm upward.
Around the 3-month mark, your treatment plan should include strengthening exercises to help you progress to your specific goals, whether that means gardening, swimming, golfing, or holding your grandchildren.
Tips for reverse shoulder replacement rehabilitation recovery
Achieving complete recovery after a shoulder replacement surgery can take 6 months to a year, but by following these tips, you can help speed the process along and get back to doing the things you love—pain free!
Take time to rest and recover
Sleep carefully
Wear your sling as instructed by your surgeon and physical therapist
Start rehab as soon as possible
Follow your rehabilitation plan carefully
Stay consistent with your exercises
A successful recovery also depends on the quality of your rehabilitation team and the consistency of your communication with them. The more you put into your reverse shoulder replacement rehabilitation, the more you’ll get out of it.
Joint replacement rehabilitation in San Diego
If you or someone you love has undergone shoulder replacement surgery, or if you’re planning ahead for a future joint replacement surgery, Bella Vista Health Center is here to provide a safe transition from hospital to home. Our total joint replacement therapy rehab program provides customized treatment plans designed to empower each patient and rehabilitate them back to their personal best. For more information on our rehabilitation programs, or to schedule a tour of our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility in Lemon Grove, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 today.
