Shoulder Replacement
This is performed by open surgery. Through an 8-10 cm cut at the front of the shoulder, the arthritic ball is replaced with a metal cap providing a smooth surface which is less painful.
Patient Information Sheet for Shoulder Replacement
After surgery, you will awaken with your arm in a removable sling, which you need to wear (and sleep in) for 2 to 3 weeks. For sleeping, a pillow to support the shoulder in a good posture is advisable.
You can use the arm “as pain allows”.
Your physiotherapist will show you how to release your arm from the sling and do gentle, specific exercises with the arm. When you go home, you should do these exercises 3 or 4 times a day.
You will be prescribed painkillers to take home which, in the majority of cases, are usually sufficient.
Mr Hallam will review you after 2 weeks.
An out-patient physiotherapy appointment will usually be arranged for you to attend 2 weeks after surgery. You may then be seen every few weeks and discharged at around 3 months after the operation.
By 12 weeks your shoulder should be more comfortable than it was before the surgery.
Improvement continues for up to 18 months. You should continue exercising until maximum potential has been reached.
Return to functional activities
Work - sedentary job: 6 weeks; manual job: guided by surgeon
Driving - after 4 weeks
Swimming - breaststroke: 6 weeks; freestyle: 12 weeks
Golf - 12 weeks
Lifting - Light lifting can begin at 3 weeks. Avoid lifting heavy items for 12 weeks.
