Shoulder surgery recovery requires the affected arm to remain immobilized in a sling or immobilizer for an extended period, often four to six weeks. This temporary inability to lift or rotate the arm complicates simple daily tasks. The difficulty of dressing and undressing can increase pain and the risk of re-injury if the arm is moved incorrectly. Preparing a specific wardrobe beforehand minimizes effort and helps maintain independence during the initial recovery phase.
Dressing for Hospital Admission
The clothing worn to the surgical facility must allow for easy removal before the procedure and simple adaptation for discharge. Loose-fitting items that do not require overhead manipulation or complex fasteners are highly recommended for the day of surgery. This includes drawstring pants or soft, elastic-waist bottoms that can be slipped on and off easily.
For the upper body, an oversized zip-up hoodie or a loose T-shirt that pulls down off the shoulders is ideal. Clothing that does not restrict the neck or shoulder area is beneficial, as hospital staff may need access for IV placement. Bring the designated “going home” outfit in a separate bag. This discharge clothing should be clean, comfortable, and already tried on with the immobilizer to confirm a good fit.
Essential Clothing Features for Recovery
The primary requirement for recovery clothing is the ability to dress without lifting the surgical arm. This is facilitated by full-front or side openings, secured with snaps, zippers, or buttons. These closures allow the garment to be wrapped around the body rather than pulled over the head, protecting the shoulder joint from unintentional rotation.
Selecting an oversized fit is beneficial, often requiring one or two sizes larger than normal. This extra room accommodates the sling or immobilizer and reduces friction against the incision site. The increased fabric volume also makes it easier to thread the immobilized arm into the sleeve.
Garments should be constructed from soft, stretchy materials like jersey knit, modal, or soft cotton to prioritize comfort and flexibility. Stretchy fabric provides necessary give when maneuvering the garment, especially when swelling is present. This flexibility also helps prevent uncomfortable bunching underneath the immobilizer, which could irritate the skin.
The technique for dressing involves putting the sleeve onto the injured arm first, followed by the unaffected arm. If the sling lacks accessible storage, clothing with easily reachable pockets can be important for carrying a phone or small personal items. These functional considerations transform the daily task of dressing into a manageable routine.
Specific Garment Recommendations and Footwear
Tops and Adaptive Wear
The most practical choice for tops involves button-up shirts, which offer complete frontal access. Oversized flannel, denim, or cotton shirts allow the wearer to fasten the garment one-handed after wrapping it around the body. Alternatively, zip-front hoodies and jackets provide a single, smooth closure that is simpler to manage than multiple buttons.
For maximum ease, some patients utilize adaptive shirts designed with closures like Velcro or magnetic snaps along the shoulder or side seams. These modified closures require minimal dexterity and can be manipulated using only the non-surgical hand. Avoid any garment that forces the surgical arm into an elevated or rotated position.
Bottoms and Accessories
Bottoms should focus exclusively on comfort and simplified operation. Preferred options include loose-fitting sweatpants, athletic joggers, or shorts. These garments feature elastic waistbands and lack complicated front closures like buttons or zippers that demand two hands for securing. Avoiding excessive bending is paramount, as this can destabilize balance and strain the recovering shoulder.
Belts should be avoided entirely during the initial recovery phase. If a belt is necessary, choose one with a quick-release buckle or a simple hook-and-loop closure that can be managed with one hand. The focus must be on minimizing the effort spent manipulating small objects.
Undergarments and Footwear
Undergarment selection requires specific consideration, particularly for individuals who wear a bra. Front-closure sports bras or soft camisoles with built-in shelves are often the only viable options. They do not require reaching behind the back or lifting the arms overhead. Socks must also be chosen to eliminate the need for bending or tying.
Footwear should consist of slip-on shoes, such as loafers, mules, or easy-entry sneakers that do not require laces. The inability to safely bend over makes traditional lace-up shoes impractical and potentially hazardous. Selecting shoes with non-slip soles also adds a layer of safety, reducing the risk of a fall.