Undergoing and recovering from orthopedic surgery can seem daunting. However, you can manage post-operative pain you may experience following a complex procedure, such as a reverse shoulder replacement. Managing pain after reverse shoulder replacement surgery is an important factor in your recovery process and can help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
In this blog, we will detail how reverse shoulder replacement works and how to deal with post-op discomfort.
What Is Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Reverse shoulder replacement surgery is one of today’s most innovative orthopedic procedures. As the name implies, it replaces the joint components of the shoulder—the head of the humerus, or upper arm, and the shoulder socket, or glenoid.
However, unlike traditional shoulder arthroplasty, the ball and socket components are switched. The surgeon places the prosthetic ball on the shoulder blade and attaches the new socket to the upper arm bone.
Why Is Reverse Shoulder Replacement Done?
Reverse shoulder replacement surgery is recommended for individuals with certain conditions such as severe rotator cuff tears, advanced shoulder arthritis, or failed previous shoulder surgeries. These conditions can cause pain and limited mobility in the shoulder joint, making daily activities difficult.
With the reverse procedure, the detailed movements of the shoulder joint— lifting, reaching, and rotating the arm in a circle—fall to the deltoid musclein the upper arm. Essentially, this change in functionality takes the work off the deteriorated or damaged rotator cuff entirely.
Managing Pain After Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Immediately after reverse shoulder replacement surgery, it is normal to experience discomfort due to incisions, tissue displacement, and inflammation. Your orthopedic surgeon will prescribe medication, such as opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to alleviate this initial pain.
It is essential that you follow your prescribed medication schedule carefully. Do not wait until the pain becomes too severe before taking it. In other words, be proactive in managing your post-operative pain and any pain you may experience as you go through physical therapy.
In addition to medication, there are other ways to manage pain after reverse shoulder replacement surgery. These include the following:
Wearing a Sling
You will wear a sling to immobilize and support your operated shoulder. The sling will also help control pain and discomfort. Wear the sling as directed by your surgeon—usually for several weeks after surgery.
Performing Range of Motion Exercises
Your physical therapist will teach you range of motion exercises to perform on a regular basis. These exercises will help manage stiffness and increase mobility in your shoulder joint. They can also help reduce pain while promoting healing.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Both ice and heat can be effective in managing pain after reverse shoulder replacement surgery. Ice packs or cold compresses decrease painful inflammation and swelling.
Applying heat through a heating pad or warm compress can relax muscles and improve blood flow to the area.
Getting Enough Rest
Rest is an important part of the recovery process after reverse shoulder replacement surgery. Your body needs time to heal and overexerting yourself can slow this process.
Make sure to get plenty of rest in between physical therapy sessions and listen to your body’s cues. Never exercise or work past the point of pain.
Additionally, your orthopedic doctor will tell you when you can drive, return to work, and perform certain movements. In general, people who have had reverse shoulder replacement surgery are restricted from participating in any high-impact activities, such as heavy lifting or contact sports, for at least three to six months. Your restrictions will depend on your age and overall health and fitness.
Physical Therapy
Your orthopedic surgeon will prescribe physical therapy (PT) exercises to help with rehabilitation and pain management. While physical therapy can cause some discomfort as you go through your treatment plan, it is important to continue it for the length of time advised by your surgeon.
However, if pain increases or becomes severe, report these changes to your healthcare providers. They will change your PT plan accordingly.
Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Learning how to properly breathe and relax can decrease pain levels. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery are all techniques that can manage pain after any kind of surgery.
Reverse Shoulder Joint Replacement in Naples, FL
If you are anticipating reverse shoulder replacement surgery, the team at Joint Replacement Institute is ready to answer all your questions about the procedure and the recovery process. We know that pain management is very important, and patient education is a vital part of what our orthopedic surgeons and their support staff offer to all of our patients. Additionally, we will show you ways to feel as comfortable as possible as you recover with your new shoulder joint.
To learn more, call our office today at (239) 261-2663 or request a visit here. We look forward to serving you!
