Shoulder Arthroscopy FAQ
Here you will get all answers and queries related to shoulder arthroscopy surgery, so if you have any concerns related to this surgery you can find below your answers.
How long does it take to recover from a shoulder arthroscopy?
Most people need six weeks or longer to recover from surgery. Depending on what type of surgery was performed, the recovery time may differ. You may need to limit your activity until your shoulder strength and range of motion return to normal. You may also be in a rehabilitation program (rehab).
Is shoulder arthroscopy major surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder joint has been a major advancement in surgical technique. It requires less cutting of intact tissue to perform repairs, which leads to a faster recovery than with open surgery.
What happens in a shoulder arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy involves inserting an arthroscope, which is a small camera, inside the joint of the shoulder. Using the camera’s images, your surgeon guides miniature surgical instruments using a video monitor.
Is shoulder arthroscopy painful?
Shoulder arthroscopy produces little pain and is long-lasting in terms of its effectiveness. Even if the surgical and anesthetic techniques provide good pain control the day of surgery, a pain bounce appears on D1 that must be taken into account, notably in an outpatient setting.
What can you not do after shoulder arthroscopy?
During the first six weeks following surgery, you should not do any reaching, lifting, pushing, or pulling with your shoulder. You should not reach behind your back with the operative arm. In addition to bending and straightening your elbows, change the position of your fingers several times each day while wearing the sling.
How long is physical therapy after arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
Physical therapy is usually required for at least six months following surgery.
How do you shower after arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
It is okay to take a shower 48 hours after your surgery if your dressing is removed. If you have incisions, you may use soap and water to gently wash them, but do not scrub them. Dry them with a towel, then bandage each incision.
How long will I be off work after shoulder arthroscopy?
After 2 to 3 weeks, you may be able to do easier daily activities. It is a good time for people who work desk jobs to return to work. Working with weights, pushing, or pulling will probably require 3 to 4 months off. Within 3 months, most people can resume activities with low risk of shoulder injury.
What can I expect after arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
After surgery, you can expect some pain and discomfort for several weeks. The pain may take longer to subside if you have had more extensive surgery. Ice will help reduce swelling and pain. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe pain medicine.
How long does it take for shoulder arthroscopy incisions to heal?
It can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months for the body to recover. For the first week, you will probably need to wear a sling. You may need to wear the sling for longer if you had a lot of repairs done.
