What to Expect After Shoulder Stabilisation Surgery

Shoulder stabilisation surgery is a common procedure for people who experience repeated shoulder dislocations or instability. If you are facing this surgery, you might wonder what the recovery process looks like and how your daily life will change. This post will guide you through what to expect after shoulder stabilisation surgery, from the first days after the operation to returning to normal activities.

A dislocated shoulder on X-Ray

What Happens Immediately After Surgery

Right after shoulder stabilisation surgery, your arm will be placed in a sling or brace to keep the shoulder in a stable position. This helps protect the repaired tissues and prevents unwanted movement that could cause damage. You will likely feel some pain and discomfort, which your doctor will manage with prescribed painkillers.

Expect to stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight depending on your surgery type and your overall health. The medical team will monitor your vital signs and ensure you are comfortable before discharge.

Managing Pain and Swelling

Pain and swelling are normal after surgery. To reduce swelling, apply ice packs to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the first 48 hours.

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Mild opioids for severe pain

• Muscle relaxants if needed

  
  

Follow the medication schedule carefully and report any side effects to your healthcare provider.

The First Few Weeks: Immobilisation and Rest

During the first 4 to 6 weeks, your shoulder will remain immobilised in a sling or brace. This period is critical for healing because the repaired tissues need time to knit together without stress. You will however be removing the sling for exercises and gentle movement during this period as guided by your physiotherapist.

Daily Life Adjustments

• Avoid lifting your arm or carrying heavy objects.

• Sleep with your arm supported on pillows to avoid strain.

• Use your non-operated arm for daily tasks like eating and dressing.

• Ask for help with activities that require two hands.

  
  

Physical Therapy Begins

Your surgeon will likely recommend starting gentle physical therapy within a few days. The initial exercises focus on:

• Maintaining movement in the elbow, wrist, and hand

• Preventing stiffness in the shoulder joint

• Gradually improving circulation

  
  

Physical therapy during this phase is gentle and supervised to avoid stressing the repair.

Regaining Movement and Strength

After the immobilisation period, your physical therapist will guide you through exercises to restore shoulder motion. This phase usually lasts from 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery.

Types of Exercises

• Passive range of motion: The therapist moves your arm for you to increase flexibility.

• Active-assisted range of motion: You begin to move your arm with some help.

• Active range of motion: You move your arm independently.

• Strengthening exercises: Focus on the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles.

  
  

Progression Tips

• Follow your therapist’s instructions closely.

• Avoid sudden or jerky movements.

• Stop any exercise that causes sharp pain.

• Be patient; regaining full motion takes time.

  
  

Returning to Normal Activities

Most patients can return to light daily activities by 3 months after surgery. However, full recovery, especially for athletes or manual workers, may take 6 months or longer.

What You Can Expect

• Improved shoulder stability and less risk of dislocation

• Gradual return to sports or heavy lifting under medical advice

• Possible mild stiffness or discomfort during activity, which should improve over time

  
  

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or fever

• Shoulder feels unstable or “gives way”

• Difficulty moving your arm beyond expected limits

  
  

Tips for a Successful Recovery

• Follow your surgeon’s and therapist’s advice carefully.

• Keep all follow-up appointments.

• Maintain a healthy diet to support healing.

• Avoid smoking, as it slows tissue repair.

• Stay positive and patient; recovery is a gradual process.