Physical Therapy
Rebuilding muscle strength and range of motion requires patience to stick with your physical therapy regimen. The end result will be worth the effort. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics describes four types of shoulder surgeries that can be performed: arthroscopy to remove damaged tissues; bankart procedure to tighten ligaments; rotator cuff repair; and prosthetic replacement of the shoulder joint. Your surgeon will customize your therapy, depending upon the extent of damage and the type of surgery performed, to help you restore the maximum amount of shoulder function.
According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, physical therapy can begin within one day of surgery, or commence after several days, weeks or months. Your surgeon will determine when you are ready to start this phase of treatment and the length of time needed to continue with your exercise program to obtain maximum benefits.
Shoulder Pain Solutions defines three phases of physical therapy: passive exercises performed by the therapist, active/assistive exercises done by you with the assistance of the therapist, and active exercises done without any assistance, but under the direction and guidance of your doctor or physical therapist.
Exercises
Orthopedic Associates of Hawaii recommends that passive range of motion exercises begin a few days after surgery and continue for up to four weeks. This will prevent stiffening from lack of movement. A therapist, relative, or athletic trainer should perform the passive exercises for you to prevent injury to your shoulder muscles.
When your doctor determines sufficient healing has occurred for you to begin participating in therapy, you will begin the active/assistive phase, exercising with your physical therapist's assistance. Depending upon the type of surgery you had, your range of motion exercises may include climbing a wall with your fingers to stretch your muscles and improve your ability to extend your arm overhead. Strength building or resistance exercises are usually performed with elastic bands and hand-held weights, according to ehealthMD. These exercises combine contracting and extending muscles to regain strength and also aid in improving range of motion.
Your doctor will decide when your shoulder is strong enough for you to begin the active phase of treatment and are able to exercise independently at home.
Additional Therapies
In addition to exercises, your physical therapist may use hot towels or heat packs to relax muscles and soft tissues and stimulate circulation. This will reduce your pain and make exercise less stressful. Cold compresses may also be used to reduce pain and swelling. Shoulder Pain Solutions advises a TENS unit (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) or similar device be used to alleviate pain through electrical stimulation of muscles or to interrupt transmission of pain signals via nerves to facilitate the healing process. This unit can also be used at home.
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