Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to address various shoulder conditions, from rotator cuff tears to impingement syndrome. This type of surgery involves small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon. While the procedure itself is typically quick, recovery is a gradual process requiring patience and adherence to medical guidance.
Immediate Post-Operative Period
Immediately following arthroscopic shoulder surgery, patients are typically discharged the same day, often within a few hours. Pain, swelling, and numbness in the shoulder and arm are common for several days or weeks. Pain management involves prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
Applying ice packs to the surgical area is recommended to reduce swelling and pain, typically for 15-30 minutes every one to two hours, ensuring a thin cloth barrier is used between the ice and skin. A sling will likely be used to immobilize the shoulder and protect the repair, with the duration of wear varying based on the complexity of the surgery.
Wound care involves keeping the small incisions clean and dry, changing dressings as directed, and avoiding submerging the shoulder in water for several weeks. Some drainage from incision sites is common in the first 48-72 hours.
The Rehabilitation Process
Physical therapy is essential for restoring mobility, strength, and function after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The rehabilitation process is structured in phases, gradually progressing as the shoulder heals.
The initial phase, lasting weeks, focuses on protecting the surgical repair and managing pain, involving passive range of motion exercises where a therapist or machine moves the arm without active muscle engagement. During this time, the shoulder remains immobilized in a sling, though gentle movements of the hand, wrist, and elbow are encouraged to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
After 3-8 weeks, the focus shifts to regaining active range of motion, where the patient moves their arm independently under guided instruction. This intermediate phase aims to improve flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Around 8-12 weeks, rehabilitation advances to strengthening exercises, incorporating resistance to rebuild strength and stability. Adherence to the prescribed exercise program is important for a successful outcome.
Managing Recovery and Potential Issues
Managing discomfort and daily challenges is part of recovery. Persistent pain can be managed with continued icing, over-the-counter pain relievers, and prescribed exercises to prevent stiffness. Sleeping can be challenging, and many find comfort sleeping in a recliner or propped up with pillows for several weeks after surgery.
It is advisable to avoid lifting anything heavier than a plate or glass for the first two to three weeks to protect the healing tissues.
While complications are uncommon, it is important to recognize signs that warrant contacting a medical professional. These include increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the incision sites, which could indicate an infection.
Other signs include pus draining from the incision, a fever, or new or persistent numbness and tingling in the hand or fingers after the initial nerve block wears off. Excessive bleeding, a hand that appears cool, pale, or changes color, or sudden severe pain that does not improve with medication also require immediate medical attention.
Long-Term Expectations
The timeline for full recovery from arthroscopic shoulder surgery can vary, from weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual factors like age and overall health. For minor repairs, a return to light activities and desk work might be possible within a few days or weeks. However, for more extensive surgeries or jobs requiring heavy lifting, a full return to strenuous activities can take four to six months or even longer.
Regaining full strength and range of motion is a gradual process, and continued adherence to exercises, even after formal physical therapy concludes, is beneficial for long-term shoulder health. While the recovery journey demands patience, consistent effort in rehabilitation contributes to a successful outcome and restored shoulder function.