Things You Can Expect in Physical Therapy After Shoulder Surgery

There are many factors that affect the recovery rate of shoulder surgery, as well as any pain that may be associated with it. Every shoulder is different, so physical therapy will be tailored to meet the specific needs of patients. Post-operative orthopedic physical therapy can be done in the home, where patients feel most comfortable.

At-Home Physical Therapy Treatments vs. In-Office

Miami is home to some of the world’s best surgeons, which makes post-surgical care in Miami an integral part of the healthcare system. Physical therapists in Miami are an essential part of the healing process after undergoing shoulder surgery, and working with one in the comfort of your own home can be a tremendous help.

Orthopedic physical therapy can be a long and hard process for some patients, especially right after surgery. Driving within the first six weeks after shoulder surgery may not be possible as controlling the vehicle with only one arm is very unsafe.

Instead of arranging transportation to and from a post-operative care facility in Miami, physical therapists have the ability to come to your home for treatment with a home healthcare agency. 

One-on-one physical therapy treatments in your home will allow you to feel more comfortable asking questions, completing exercises, and speaking with your physical therapist.

Post-surgical care in Miami is also available for any patients traveling to the area specifically to have surgery.

Range of Motion Exercises

Restoring the range of motion of your shoulder after surgery is one of the most important services that physical therapists in Miami offer. It will take time and patience to increase your range of motion, and physical therapy treatments will progress from simple to complex.

Post-operative care in Miami for shoulders may begin with pendulum exercises. Bending over at the waist with the affected arm hanging at your side, you will sway your body back and forth to let gravity move your arm in small circles. Using this technique, you can increase the range of motion in your shoulder in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

The shape of your shoulder joint allows for it to move in many directions once healed. Using a stick or wand-shaped object for certain exercises will allow you to work on flexion, extension, rotation, adduction, and abduction movements.

Orthopedic physical therapy does not stop once your appointment is over. Your physical therapist in Miami will show you exercises that can be done safely on your own time to progress further.

Strengthening Exercises

Post-surgical care in Miami will also focus on strengthening exercises that target the shoulder muscles. Similar to the range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises will progress from easier to harder.

Laying on your stomach, you will put your affected arm out at shoulder level bent at a 90-degree angle, slowly raising and lowering your hand. This starting exercise may be difficult to do at first but will get easier over time.

Another strengthening exercise asks you to stand up with both arms slightly behind you with your thumbs facing down. Once in this position, you will raise your arms up as if you are pouring out drink cans. This exercise will help strengthen the muscles needed to rotate your arm.

The more you do these exercises, the easier it will be to do them as time goes on. Consult with your physical therapist before trying any exercises on your own, as the anatomy of your shoulder may require other techniques.

Physical Therapy Timeline

If you will be undergoing scheduled shoulder surgery, it is best to work with a physical therapist before surgery. You will have a smoother recovery process if your shoulder is in better condition prior to surgery. Your pre-surgery program may include the stretching and strengthening of the shoulder, back, and neck muscles, as well as posture training.

Your physical therapist will determine when to start physical therapy after surgery. Your first physical therapy sessions may begin with actions such as getting out of bed comfortably, getting dressed safely and learning how to work with your shoulder sling.

As you recover, your physical therapist will continue to observe and track your progress in order to put together a plan. This plan will be specific to the needs of your everyday life, career, and can even be tailored to getting back to your hobbies.

Every shoulder is different, and there is no set timeline as to when you will be fully recovered. 

The Bottom Line

Post-operative care in Miami will be tailored to your body and the operation that your shoulder underwent. There may be times where you want to give up, but you should trust in your physical therapist’s advice and instruction.

It is important to be open and honest with your physical therapist about how you are feeling, especially if you are experiencing a large amount of pain. Physical therapy is a learning experience and your physical therapist will be happy to answer any questions you may have throughout the process and afterward.

Physical therapy can be a demanding process for some patients, but the pain will be worth it in the end.