Shoulder Joint Replacement - Aftercare

Your arm will feel numb for a few hours after the operation due to the local anaesthesia. Movement of the fingers may not be possible in some cases. Pains, swelling, and and instances of bruising can be treated effectively during your in-patient stay.⁸

In the first 4-6 post-operative weeks, wearing a special, sling-like bandage is necessary. During this time, driving, among other things, will be almost impossible. Taking showers will be possible again after about 1 week when the stitches have been removed.^2,5

Depending on what type of work you pursue, return to work life is possible after about 3-6 weeks. For strenuous physical work, a longer leave of absence from work is necessary.

For healing and quick recovery of the functionality of the shoulder joint, it is very important that you begin physical therapy exercises soon after the operation. Normally, exercises are taken up immediately on the day following the operation; these should then be repeated regularly. After you leave the clinic, these exercises are indispensable for the prevention of joint stiffness. The exercises should be repeated 4-5 times daily. However, please be aware that you should not expect too much from your new joint and should therefore give it sufficient periods of rest. Wearing heavy objects is forbidden during the first 4-6 weeks. The final operational results can first be recognised after 3-6 months.^4,7,8

Please speak with the doctor who is treating you about the above-described measures as well as further individual aftercare measures.