Surgery and plastic How long do you have to wear a sling after rotator cuff surgery?
It is very important to wear your sling as directed by your doctor after surgery. The sling is typically used for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. You should not do any reaching, lifting, pushing, or pulling with your shoulder during the first six weeks after surgery.
Do and don’ts after rotator cuff surgery?
Don’t…
- Don’t drive. Period. …
- Don’t do any lifting, pushing, or pulling.
- Don’t move your shoulder or reach with the arm that your surgery was performed on.
- Don’t remove the sutures.
- Don’t travel until cleared by your doctor.
- Don’t place any creams, ointments, Neosporin/Polysporin on the incision. THINK DRY!!!
Can you take sling off after shoulder surgery?
You may be able to take the bandage off in about 3 days, or when your doctor tells you. Your arm will also be in a sling for at least 1 week and maybe as long as 6 weeks. You may take the sling off when you dress or wash and during rehabilitation (rehab).
Can I sleep without my sling after rotator cuff surgery?
The sling has to be worn at all times, including at night while you are sleeping. This can make for a difficult night of rest. In many cases, the best way to sleep after shoulder surgery is in a recliner. The recliner allows you to lie down and rest without giving you the freedom to turn over.
What happens at 3 weeks after rotator cuff surgery?
3 weeks to 6 weeks- Post-acute recovery
Therapy should not be “painful”, but you will have some discomfort with getting the shoulder out of the sling and having it moved around more. You are still not allowed to actively lift your arm at this point.
Is rotator cuff surgery worth having?
Surgery may be a good idea if you tore your rotator cuff in a sudden injury and the tear is making your shoulder weak. But surgery can’t fully reverse problems that occur over time with wear and tear of the rotator cuff.
Can I take my sling off to sleep?
It is important you wear your sling in bed for the recommended period, unless you are instructed otherwise. We recommend you sleep on your back or unaffected side. When lying on your back we suggest you use a pillow underneath your injured arm for support.
What is the average recovery time for rotator cuff surgery?
Recovery can take 4 to 6 months, depending on the size of the tear and other factors. You may have to wear a sling for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Pain is usually managed with medicines. Physical therapy can help you regain the motion and strength of your shoulder.
What happens at 8 weeks after rotator cuff surgery?
For the first 6-8 weeks after surgery, your surgeon will ask you to wear a sling to protect the repaired tendons. The next phase of recovery, from 8-12 weeks after the surgery, is focused on getting the shoulder to move normally again, while still not doing any lifting that could pull apart the repair.
What happens if I don’t wear my sling?
One-and-a-half months after surgery, patients who did not wear a sling had increased shoulder motion, including external (outward) rotation and active elevation. Both groups showed continued improvement at three months, but shoulder elevation remained greater in the no-sling group.
Can I take my sling off after rotator cuff surgery?
Your arm will be in a sling or other device to prevent it from moving for 4 to 8 weeks. Always use the sling when you are walking or standing. If you are sitting or lying down, you can loosen the sling, but do not remove it. This lets your elbow straighten without moving the shoulder.
What is the fastest way to recover from shoulder surgery?
To ensure optimal results and the quickest possible recovery, follow these key tips.
- Wear your shoulder immobilizer or sling. …
- Participate in physical therapy. …
- Eliminate pain medication as quickly as possible. …
- Avoid certain shoulder positions and arm movements. …
- Don’t rush your recovery.
Why can’t you take ibuprofen after shoulder surgery?
DO NOT take any NSAIDS (anti-inflammatory medications) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and/or Celebrex for 6 weeks after your surgery. These drugs slow bone growth and this may lead to poor healing. If you were taking aspirin before your surgery for cardiac reasons, it is OK to resume this.
How do you stay in shape after rotator cuff surgery?
After the first week to 10 days, it’s fine to begin using a stationary bike to keep your cardio activity going, but avoid treadmills and elliptical, as you can easily lose your balance and really hurt yourself. You should also be moving your hand and elbow a decent amount during this time to avoid stiffness.