Shoulder bone spur surgery, known as acromioplasty or subacromial decompression, is a procedure that relieves pressure within the shoulder joint. This arthroscopic procedure targets impingement, a condition where a bone spur, usually on the underside of the acromion, rubs against the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. The operation involves shaving away a small amount of bone to widen the space, stopping painful friction and allowing tendons to heal.
The First Few Days Post-Surgery
The immediate focus following surgery is managing discomfort and protecting the surgical site. A regional nerve block provides excellent pain relief for the first several hours, followed by a personalized medication regimen, including prescribed narcotics and over-the-counter options.
You must wear a sling continuously to immobilize the joint. Incisions will be covered with a sterile dressing, typically removed five to ten days post-operation. You may remove the sling briefly only for personal hygiene, such as showering, and for specific, gentle exercises.
Activity is heavily restricted to prevent strain. Avoid lifting anything with the surgical arm, and sudden or heavy movements are prohibited. Driving is not allowed due to the required immobilization and the use of narcotic pain medication.
Navigating the Recovery Timeline
Recovery progresses through distinct, carefully managed phases. The initial phase, lasting approximately four to six weeks, centers on protecting the surgical repair and reducing inflammation. Movement is restricted primarily to passive range of motion (PROM) exercises, where the arm is moved by a therapist or the non-surgical arm, ensuring healing tissues are not actively stressed.
The second phase, typically between six and twelve weeks, shifts focus to regaining active range of motion (AROM) and beginning light strengthening. Significant improvements in mobility are often felt as you start to move the arm independently. Pain levels generally decrease substantially, allowing for a more robust rehabilitation program.
The final phase, extending from three to six months post-surgery, involves advanced strengthening and the return to full functional use. This stage rebuilds muscle endurance and power, especially in the rotator cuff. Complete recovery and full strength restoration generally take three to six months.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is mandatory and structured to restore mobility, strength, and function. Therapy often begins within the first few days after the operation to prevent stiffness and initiate healing. The goal is to systematically progress the shoulder from protected movement to independent, powerful function.
Sessions are commonly scheduled two to three times per week for the first several weeks, with the frequency decreasing as you gain independence and strength. The therapist provides a tailored home exercise program that must be performed daily to maintain progress. Consistency with these home exercises is a major determinant of recovery success.
Initial techniques include passive mobilization, such as pendulum exercises, which use gravity to gently move the arm without engaging the shoulder muscles. As healing progresses, the program incorporates specific strengthening exercises, often utilizing resistance bands or light weights, to target the external rotators and stabilizing muscles. This collaboration guides the safe return to full activity.
Returning to Normal Activities
The timeline for resuming everyday tasks depends on the procedure’s complexity and your personal healing rate. For sedentary or desk-based work, a return is often possible within three to five days, provided you can manage the commute and pain levels. Jobs requiring manual labor or heavy lifting necessitate a longer absence, typically four to six weeks before light duties can be considered.
Driving can usually be resumed once you are no longer using the sling and have stopped taking narcotic pain medication, commonly around two weeks post-surgery. You must have sufficient reflex time and strength to safely control the steering wheel, particularly if the surgery was performed on the right arm. Lifting restrictions are strictly enforced; avoid lifting anything heavier than a cup of coffee for the first four to six weeks.
A gradual return to sports and strenuous activity is allowed only after significant strength progress in therapy. Light, non-contact sports may be considered around three months. High-impact or overhead activities, such as throwing or heavy weight training, require a cautious approach. It generally takes four to six months before the shoulder is ready to handle the full stresses of pre-injury athletic demands.