Post-Operative Instructions
Shoulder Instability Surgery (Bankart/Latarjet)
General Instructions
- Protecting the repair while it heals is essential to prevent re-injury
- Wear your sling at all times for 4-6 weeks
- Avoid positions that put stress on the repair (arm out to side and rotated back)
- Sleep in the sling—a recliner or propped pillows are most comfortable
- Follow the physical therapy protocol carefully
Wound Care
- Keep incisions clean and dry for the first 72 hours
- Small arthroscopic portals (Bankart) or one larger incision (Latarjet)
- Shower after 72 hours but avoid direct water pressure on incisions
- No soaking in water until fully healed
Pain Management
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Ice the shoulder for 20 minutes multiple times daily
- The nerve block will wear off in 12-24 hours—take pain medication before it does
- Pain typically decreases significantly after the first week
Activity Restrictions & Timeline
Weeks 1-4
- Strict sling immobilization
- Elbow, wrist, and hand exercises only
- No external rotation past neutral
- No abduction past 90 degrees
Weeks 4-6
- Begin gentle passive and active-assisted motion
- Continue sling between exercises
- Gradually increase range of motion as directed
Weeks 6-12
- Discontinue sling
- Progress range of motion
- Begin gentle strengthening
- Avoid provocative positions
Months 3-6
- Progressive strengthening
- Sport-specific rehabilitation if applicable
- Return to non-contact sports around 4 months
- Return to contact sports at 6 months if cleared
⚠️ When to Call Our Office
Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Feeling of instability or a "shift" in the shoulder
- Severe pain not controlled with medication
- Numbness or weakness that worsens
- Any concerns about recovery
Emergency: If you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately.
Follow-Up Schedule
- 10-14 days: Wound check
- 6 weeks: Range of motion assessment
- 3 months: Strengthening progress
- 6 months: Return to sport evaluation
Need Assistance?
Our team is available to answer your questions and support your recovery.
Contact Our Office