Restoring The Shoulder

Full-movement joints like shoulders, knees, and hips are prone to osteoarthritis or injuries. The shoulder, in particular, can wear away after years of overuse or arthritis. A total shoulder replacement (TSR) helps relieve pain and weakness and improves the patient’s function. Individuals need physical therapy (PT) to make the recovery as smooth and successful as possible. Specific exercises can help strengthen the surrounding muscles and, thereby, the joint.

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What is TSR surgery?

When conservative treatments have failed to correct a shoulder problem, surgery may be required. Total shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure that replaces the ball and socket joint of the shoulder with an artificial joint. The damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and a metal or ceramic joint is installed. The patient can have surgery in an outpatient surgical center thanks to minimally invasive techniques. The procedure takes a few hours and is known to have high success rates. With a minimally invasive approach, the patient leaves the same day, has smaller incisions, and less downtime.

Strengthen that shoulder

A total joint replacement is an effective solution for months or years of pain. However, the joint can only work effectively with a solid recovery protocol, which includes physical therapy. During the appointment, the physical therapist uses exercises to improve the range of motion (ROM) while strengthening and stretching the shoulder. Sometimes, shoulder surgery patients start PT weeks before the procedure to prepare and help speed up recovery.

Popular PT exercises

Going slow and starting with passive motions is essential. First, the physical therapist will move the shoulder joint and elbow through gentle stretches such as arm pendulums and extensions. Within a few days, the patient should be able to perform these without assistance. Additionally, the patient can benefit from cross-arm shoulder stretches, shoulder rolls, abductions, and external rotations. Exercises to restore grip strength are also common and involve squeezing a ball or grip device.

Increase resistance

Over time, the physical therapist will introduce resistance bands or light weights to increase muscle mass and strength. The added weight helps support the new joint and reduce pain. The PT will guide the patient through shoulder presses, lateral raises, and pull-downs. Over time, the patient can try exercises unassisted. Listen to the body and look for signs of fatigue. Rest, then modify the exercise accordingly.

A new shoulder

Total replacements have the potential to restore the full range of motion and reduce pain in the shoulder. With physical therapy exercises that strengthen the joint, individuals can return to daily activities sooner. Working with a professional physical therapist will provide the best possible results for individuals recovering from surgery.

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