The Shoulder Surgery Companion Preparation and Guidance for Surgery and Rehabilitation

Shoulder injuries are a painful interruption of regular routine. To make the recovery as smooth and quick as possible, this book offers one-stop coverage on all aspects of shoulder recovery. Topics include what to do before surgery, hospital admission, pre-op procedures, anesthesia, the possibility of a hospital stay, and the details of various shoulder surgeries. The Shoulder Surgery Companion also discusses short-term issues such as managing daily activities, self-care and hygiene, medications, and sleep issues, as well as the long-term rehabilitation process, including physical therapy.

What is Physical Therapy?
Functional movement is central to what it means to be healthy and
Physical therapy is the best way to make sure your surgery is successful and help you return quickly to the activities you love. As with many people, you may have had PT prior to surgery, either in an initial attempt to see if it alone would provide adequate healing, or to help your shoulder to be in the best possible shape to minimize the trauma associated with surgery.
Your surgeon and PT will assess your needs and discuss with you the methods and goals of your treatment during rehabilitation. They will guide you in all aspects of your recovery. Your physical therapist will:

• Teach you exercises that are safe at each stage of rehabilitation, and that can be done both in the therapist’s office and at home
• Provide a variety of therapies, including heat, stretching, and electrical stimulation of the operated tissues to improve healing
• Provide educational materials
• Assist you in deciding when you're ready to resume your favorite activities

Following the prescribed treatment plan will make a positive difference in your recovery. As with any surgery, there will be some discomfort while you are getting back the use of your shoulder, but the more effort you make the better the result you can expect to achieve.