Shoulder Mobility: How To Restore Range Of Motion After A Total Replacement

Can Full Mobility Be Restored?

Shoulder injuries are common and often caused by accidents. In other cases, repetitive motions over extended periods result in long-term damage. What tends to happen is that ligaments or tendons get torn. Sometimes simply removing the damaged tissue is all that’s required, while other individuals may need a total joint replacement. If a total replacement is recommended, people need to know best practices to restore mobility.

What to expect with recovery

Surgery can influence people in different ways. Individual timelines vary widely, and the type of procedure performed can impact the healing journey. Similarly, the extent of the damage observed in the injury site, and even a person’s underlying health before surgery, can also influence healing timelines. Arthroscopic surgeries offer faster recovery times, whereas traditional open procedures take longer to achieve full mobility. Still, following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions and incorporating the following tips can help speed recovery.

Don’t skip physical therapy

Even in the early recovery, physical therapy matters. Some of the leading causes of joint injuries are poor posture, awkward range of motion, or not understanding how to move properly in specific situations. A licensed physical therapist can train recovering patients to not only regain strength but also develop proper movements to prevent recurrent injuries in the shoulder. Research suggests that regular physical therapy attendance during recovery can improve outcomes and speed healing. However, even between sessions, people are urged to stay active with gentle movement and exercises rather than be sedentary. Movement helps boost blood flow, which improves wound healing.

Get the necessary gear

Initially following surgery, patients are required to keep the shoulder immobile to prevent pulling stitches or creating additional damage. Surgeons will usually recommend wearing a sling or an alternative medical device. The sling prevents premature movement that could cause damage and delay recovery.

Get support from caregivers

Immediately following surgery, patients are instructed to avoid strenuous activities and to find a trusted person to help with daily tasks. Trying to be independent too soon after the procedure can result in setbacks. Limited mobility makes simple activities difficult, and trying to push through to complete even the most basic task can cause injuries and delay recovery. Excessive movements and even straining to extend the shoulder area are the biggest risks. Create a plan before surgery to confirm which individuals will be available to provide support during recovery.

Eat a healthy diet

Many people underestimate the connection between diet and recovery. Food is literally fuel for the body and getting the right balance of nutrients through healthy choices can go a long way in supporting the healing process. General guidelines recommend staying hydrated, selecting nutrient-rich foods, and potentially even starting with a light broth and bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT) diet if anesthesia or pain medications are causing nausea. For best results, patients are urged to avoid high-risk foods such as options that have too much salt, processed foods, and even consuming alcohol because of the risk of dehydration or negative interactions with medications.

Know before surgery

Individual healing timelines will vary but being an informed patient is the smartest choice. Develop a post-surgical care plan outlining caretakers, a physical therapy schedule, and a pain management strategy. Still, following the post-surgery recovery recommendations is one of the best ways to achieve good outcomes. Likewise, sticking to a physical therapy schedule, staying active while avoiding overuse in the affected area, and getting help when needed also support healing.