Post-Operative Instructions
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
General Instructions
- Keep your arm in the sling at all times except when performing exercises or bathing
- Sleep in a reclined position or propped up with pillows for the first 2-4 weeks
- Do not lift anything heavier than a coffee cup with your surgical arm for 6 weeks
- Avoid pushing, pulling, or reaching behind your back
- Take all medications as prescribed
- Apply ice to your shoulder for 20 minutes several times daily to reduce swelling
Wound Care
- Keep the incision clean and dry for the first 48-72 hours
- After 72 hours, you may shower and let water run over the incision—do not scrub
- Do not submerge the incision in water (no baths, pools, or hot tubs) until fully healed
- Change dressings as instructed, typically every 1-2 days
- Monitor for signs of infection: increased redness, warmth, drainage, or fever
Pain Management
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed—stay ahead of the pain
- Gradually transition to over-the-counter medications as pain improves
- Ice the shoulder regularly to help with pain and swelling
- Position changes and gentle movement can help reduce discomfort
- Notify our office if pain is not controlled with prescribed medications
Activity Restrictions & Timeline
Weeks 1-2
- Sling worn at all times except for exercises and hygiene
- Pendulum exercises and gentle elbow/wrist movements only
- No driving
- No lifting with surgical arm
Weeks 2-6
- Continue sling use as directed (typically 4-6 weeks total)
- Begin passive range of motion exercises with physical therapy
- May begin light daily activities with non-surgical arm
- No driving until off narcotic pain medications and cleared by Dr. Joshi
Weeks 6-12
- Sling discontinued as directed
- Progress to active-assisted and active range of motion
- Begin gentle strengthening exercises
- May resume driving if cleared
- No lifting over 5 pounds
Months 3-6
- Progressive strengthening program
- Gradual return to normal daily activities
- May resume light recreational activities as cleared
- Avoid high-impact activities and heavy lifting
⚠️ When to Call Our Office
Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage from incision
- Sudden increase in pain not relieved by medication
- Numbness or tingling that worsens or doesn't improve
- Calf pain, swelling, or tenderness (possible blood clot)
- Shortness of breath or chest pain (seek emergency care)
- Any concerns about your 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 and suture removal
- 6 weeks: X-rays and progress evaluation
- 3 months: Functional assessment
- 6 months: Progress check
- 1 year: Annual follow-up
Need Assistance?
Our team is available to answer your questions and support your recovery.
Contact Our Office