Recovering from shoulder replacement surgery requires aftercare. The right plan can mean the difference between regaining full strength and struggling with limitations.
Following your recovery plan means you can protect your new joint and get back to the activities you enjoy.
Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Matthew Pifer, MD, has helped countless people achieve excellent outcomes after shoulder replacement surgery.
Dr. Pifer’s approach combines advanced surgical techniques with a strong focus on personalized rehabilitation and support.
After surgery, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your shoulder, manage pain, and protect your new joint. This includes guidance on when to change bandages, how to keep the surgical area clean, and which activities to avoid in the early days of recovery.
Even small deviations from your post-op plan can slow healing or increase the risk of complications.
In most cases, you’ll wear a sling for several weeks after surgery. This helps keep your shoulder stable while the tissues heal.
You may be tempted to skip the sling once you start feeling better, but using it for the recommended time prevents strain that could set back your progress.
Following shoulder replacement surgery, you can expect to have some discomfort and swelling. Ice packs, prescribed pain management medication, and keeping your arm elevated can all help.
The goal is to stay comfortable enough to move your arm as directed during your recovery exercises, without overexerting the joint.
Physical therapy is essential to restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your shoulder. Your rehabilitation program will progress in stages, starting with gentle movements and gradually building up to more challenging exercises.
Skipping sessions or doing too much too soon can compromise your results, so follow our plan.
While most people recover without serious issues, it’s important to watch for signs of complications, such as fever, redness or warmth around the incision, sudden increase in pain, or difficulty moving your arm.
Report any unusual symptoms right away so problems can be addressed quickly.
Your overall health plays a big role in how quickly and effectively your shoulder heals. Eating nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and avoiding smoking can improve your body’s ability to recover.
Gentle walking or other low-impact activities (once cleared) can also help maintain circulation and overall fitness during your healing period.
Recovering from shoulder replacement surgery takes patience, persistence, and the right guidance. By working closely with our team, following instructions, and committing to your rehabilitation plan, you can achieve the strong, pain-free shoulder you’ve been hoping for.
To learn more about shoulder replacement and personalized aftercare, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew Pifer in Santa Barbara, California. Call or book your appointment online today.
