Post Op Instruction after Open Shoulder Procedures

This leaflet offers general guidance to help your recovery after open shoulder surgery.

Following these steps closely protects your repair and supports a smooth recovery.

At the heart of my practice is Shared Decision-Making. Whether we pursue conservative management (Plan A) or surgical intervention (Plan B), the goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and functional goals.

Nerve Block Effects

The anaesthetist may have given you a nerve block (an injection in your neck) to numb your shoulder and arm and help control pain. It is normal to feel some numbness and tingling in the arm and fingers for up to about 24–36 hours after surgery.

• What to Expect: A nerve block may cause numbness or a “dead arm” sensation lasting 24–36 hours.
• When to Seek Help: Contact your surgeon if you notice persistent numbness, excessive coldness, or significant swelling beyond this timeframe.

Pain, Swelling & Wound Care

• Pain: Use prescribed pain medication, tapering off as pain eases. Opioids can cause constipation — use a stool softener if needed. Paracetamol and ibuprofen may be used as pain subsides.
• Swelling: Apply ice packs over the shoulder (20 minutes every 2 hours) for the first 48–72 hours, with a cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Normal symptoms: Mild bruising or swelling down the arm is common.
• Dressings: Some blood-stained leakage is normal, but saturated dressings should be replaced. Keep the dressing clean and dry, and do not disturb sutures, staples or steri-strips.
• Seek advice: Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice pus, a foul odour, or increasing redness and pain around the incision.

Sling Use & Activity

• Immobilisation: Supported in a sling for 4–6 weeks. Follow your surgeon’s advice on removing it for gentle exercises.
• Permitted movement: Remove the sling briefly for gentle hand, wrist and elbow exercises only.
• Early recovery: Initial physiotherapy focuses on passive motion (your therapist moves the arm for you) to prevent stiffness and protect the repair. Active motion and strengthening usually begin 6–8 weeks after surgery.
• Precautions: Avoid pushing, pulling or lifting with the operated arm, and do not reach overhead or behind your back in the early weeks.
• Long-term: Recovery may take 6–12 months, with pain and function continuing to improve over time.

Bathing, Sleeping & Daily Life

• Timing: You may shower 3–4 days after surgery, keeping the dressing in place and changing it afterwards. Avoid baths or swimming until the incision is fully healed and cleared by your surgeon.
• Sling: Remove the sling for showering, keeping the arm supported and close to your body.
• Reclined position: Use a recliner or prop yourself up with pillows to elevate the shoulder.
• Transition: Gradually move to sleeping flatter as tolerated, using extra pillows.
• Avoid rolling: Use pillows to prevent rolling onto the operated shoulder.

Driving & Returning to Work

• Do not drive while using strong pain medication or wearing a sling.
• Make sure you can perform an emergency stop.
• Confirm with your surgeon and insurer before resuming driving.
• Office work: Light duties may be possible within 2–4 weeks if travel with the sling is manageable.
• Manual labour: Heavy lifting or overhead work may need 3–6 months of recovery.

Follow-Up & Long-Term Recovery

• Follow-up appointments: Regular visits ensure proper healing and monitor progress.
• Full recovery: Most patients feel significant pain relief within weeks, but full strength and motion may take up to a year.
• Prosthesis lifespan: A well-placed shoulder replacement can last 10–20 years, depending on activity level and care.