Post-Operative Instructions for Rotator Cuff Repair
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- Postoperative Pain
- A prescription from your Physician will be provided to you for postoperative pain management. This medication should be taken on an as needed basis for pain.
- Do not take pain medication on an empty stomach. Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids following your surgery, resume normal diet.
- Physical Therapy is to be started 3-5 days following your surgery. Have this arranged before surgery, to start 3-5 days after surgery.
- Activity
- Rest
- Do not use your surgical arm for any activities (lifting, pushing, pulling, moving). The surgical repair must stay intact for full recovery.
- You will be in a shoulder sling/immobilizer for 4-6 weeks postoperatively.
- This sling must be worn at all times unless otherwise directed by physical therapist or physician.
- Exercises
- You may remove the sling only to perform range of motion exercises for your elbow and for personal hygiene. Your Physical Therapist is provided with your post-op surgical protocol. He/She may also have specific instructions that will require your sling to be removed during your therapy session.
– Bend your elbow and allow your arm to hang at your side
– Bend and straighten your elbow 10 times 3-5 times per day to prevent your elbow from getting stiff.
– Replace sling following your home exercise.
– Avoid any overhead activities until specified by physician.
- You may remove the sling only to perform range of motion exercises for your elbow and for personal hygiene. Your Physical Therapist is provided with your post-op surgical protocol. He/She may also have specific instructions that will require your sling to be removed during your therapy session.
- Dressing
- A bulky post-op dressing will be applied at the time of surgery. You may
remove this dressing 3 days postoperatively and replace it with new, clean, waterproof household band-aids. You can find the waterproof band-aids at any pharmacy. Your staples/sutures must remain clean and dry until you are seen in the office for your first post-op visit. The staples/sutures will be removed at your first post-op visit.
- A bulky post-op dressing will be applied at the time of surgery. You may
- Postoperative Pain
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the office.