Tips to Ensure a Quick Recovery from Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder Replacement Surgeries are life-changing operations that help individuals suffering from chronic pain or limited mobility due to acute shoulder injuries. The surgery involves replacing the damaged shoulder joint with a prosthetic one that can last for up to 20 years. However, just like any other major surgery, Shoulder Replacement Surgeries require careful planning and preparation to minimize complications and ensure a full and quick recovery. In this blog, we discuss some tips that patients can follow to prepare for their Shoulder Replacement Surgery and make the most out of their recovery period.
Educate Yourself
The first step in preparing for a Shoulder Replacement Surgery is to educate yourself about the procedure. Talk to your Orthopedic Surgeon, read online, and ask around to understand what the surgery entails. This knowledge would help you understand what to expect, the risks involved, and what you should do to facilitate a speedy recovery.
Strengthen Your Shoulder Muscles
Strengthening your shoulder muscles would go a long way in ensuring your quick recovery. Focus on exercises such as rowing, shoulder press, pull-ups, push-ups, and shoulder shrugs to strengthen your shoulder muscles. Your Orthopedic Surgeon might provide you with a set of exercise routines to help with this.
Plan for Home Support
After the surgery, you would need help from family and friends to carry out your errands such as grocery shopping, cooking, driving, and cleaning. Ensure you have a support system in place to help you. You might also consider hiring a cleaning service, using food delivery services, and commuting via a ride-sharing app if none of your family or friends can help.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a known impediment to healing processes. If you are a smoker, consider quitting smoking weeks or months before the surgery. This would help increase your blood flow, boost your immune system, expedite your healing process, and reduce the risk of complications.
Prepare Mentally and Physically
Finally, it is crucial to prepare mentally and physically for the surgery. Mental preparation involves staying positive, speaking to a therapist if necessary to manage fears or anxiety, and being committed to the healing process. Physical preparation involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying active, and following your Orthopedic Surgeon's guidelines on diet and exercise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shoulder Replacement Surgeries can be transformative operations that restore mobility and reduce chronic shoulder pain. However, it is essential to prepare adequately for the surgery to minimize complications and speed up the recovery process. Patients can prepare by educating themselves, strengthening their shoulder muscles, planning for home support, quitting smoking, and preparing mentally and physically. If you're seeking for Orthopedic Surgeons in Deland, FL, and would like to discuss Shoulder Replacement Surgery, contact Central Florida Bone and Joint Institute to schedule an appointment.