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Before Shoulder Surgery: Preparation Steps For Successful Procedure
Summary
Preparing for shoulder surgery can make a big difference in your recovery. By strengthening your shoulder muscles and following specific guidelines, you'll help ensure the surgery goes smoothly and you recover faster. This handout provides easy-to-follow steps to get ready for your operation.
What Is This & Why It Matters
This handout is designed to guide you through the steps you should take before undergoing shoulder surgery. Proper preparation will help improve your surgical outcomes and speed up your recovery process. By following these instructions, you can strengthen your shoulder muscles, ensure you're fit for surgery, and make your post-surgery experience more comfortable.
What You Should Do
- Begin physical therapy sessions 2-3 times a week, starting 4-6 weeks before surgery. These sessions will help strengthen your rotator cuff and stabilizer muscles.
- Perform home exercises daily using resistance bands, pendulum swings, and scapular strengthening routines. These bands are affordable and can be purchased for $10-20.
- Stop eating or drinking anything (including gum and mints) after midnight the night before your surgery to prepare your body for anesthesia.
- Discontinue any aspirin, NSAIDs, or blood thinners 7-10 days before surgery as advised by your surgeon to reduce bleeding risks.
- Prepare post-operative comfort items like a sling, ice packs, and pillows to help support and ease any pain after the procedure.
- Set up your bedroom with an elevated pillow arrangement to support comfortable sleeping without straining your shoulder.
- Complete any pre-operative tests like labs, an EKG, or a chest x-ray to confirm you are fit for surgery.
- Arrange transportation for the day of surgery and plan for assistance with household tasks during your recovery.
What You Should NOT Do
- Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight before your surgery.
- Do not wear makeup, nail polish, contacts, or jewelry on the day of surgery.
- Refrain from wearing tight or difficult-to-remove clothing; opt for loose-fitting attire instead.
- Don't drive yourself home after the procedure; arrange a ride with family or friends.
- Do not neglect asking questions if you have any concerns or need clarification about the procedure.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Mild swelling around the surgical area is common after surgery.
- You might experience some soreness or stiffness in the shoulder region.
- Feeling tired or sleepy after anesthesia is typical and expected.
- Temporary bruising around the shoulder area is normal.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Severe or increasing pain that does not improve with prescribed medication.
- Significant swelling that seems excessive or doesn't go down over time.
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, which may indicate an infection.
- Redness or warmth at the incision site that persists beyond normal healing time.
- Fluid leakage from the incision area that is concerning.
FAQ
Why do I need to stop eating at midnight before my surgery?
Stopping food and drink intake helps prevent complications with anesthesia during your procedure.
How can physical therapy help me before my surgery?
Pre-surgery physical therapy strengthens muscles around your shoulder, making recovery easier post-operation.
What should I bring with me on the day of surgery?
Bring a list of medications you're taking, personal identification, insurance information, and loose-fitting clothes.
When can I resume driving after my shoulder surgery?
Generally, it's advised to avoid driving for at least 2 weeks post-surgery until you're cleared by your doctor.
Is it normal to feel tired after my operation?
Yes, feeling tired is common after anesthesia. It's important to rest as needed during recovery.
How do I care for my incision site post-surgery?
Keep the area clean and dry. Follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding dressing changes or wound care.