How to Prepare

In order to achieve the best results from shoulder surgery and help ensure everything goes smoothly, the longer you have to prepare, the better. This is the perfect time to make sure your body is in the best shape possible for surgery, and a good time to prepare your home for your recovery.
Before your surgeon performs the surgery, he or she may have you:

• Get a physical exam, blood work and urine analysis to get a sense of any problems that could arise
• Adjust certain medications like blood thinners
• Get any healthy issues like diabetes or high blood pressure under control

You and your caregiver should take this time to familiarize yourselves with the surgery and what to expect. You should also learn what you can do to prepare your home for your rehabilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will patients be able to move their shoulders?
A: Patients will be instructed on active use before leaving the surgery center or hospital.

Q: What do patients wear?
A: Patients should be able to wear regular clothes after shoulder arthroscopy, however, common daily activities that require raising the arm (i.e. brushing hair or teeth, or fastening an under garment) will be difficult.

Q: Will patients need to do anything special when they go home?
A: Patients will need to begin an exercise regimen prescribed by the doctor, which may include physical therapy.

Q: When can patients return to work?
A: Depending on the extent of surgery, patients may return to work within the first few weeks.

Q: When can patients drive?
A: Patients’ surgeons will let them know when they can start driving again.

Q: Will patients have scars?
A: Minimal scarring will occur, and it is dependent upon how many incisions the doctor makes.