Dear Patient,
Recovery after reverse shoulder arthroplasty requires a structured rehabilitation program. Please follow the outlined phases carefully:
Phase 1: the first 14 days after surgery
• Consistent Use of Sling: The arm must remain immobilized in a sling at all times.
• Cold Therapy for Swelling and Pain: Ice packs or cold therapy may be used. Always place a towel between the ice pack and your skin to prevent frostbite.
• Pain Medication as Prescribed: Pain medication can be taken up to the full dosage if needed. If pain is mild, medication may be reduced or skipped.
• Allowed Movements: Fingers, wrist, and elbow may be moved freely, but the shoulder must remain immobilized in the sling.
• Pendulum Exercises: May be performed 2–3 times daily, but not before postoperative day 3 (48 hours after surgery).
• Lymphatic Drainage Only After Full Skin Closure: Lymphatic drainage should not be performed within the first 14 days to avoid wound healing complications.
• If Fluid Leakage Occurs: If there is any wound fluid leakage within the first 14 days, immediately notify Dr. Florian Grubhofer.
• Removal of the plaster and steristrips: the plaster and steristrips must be removed by a doctor (family doctor or PD Dr. Florian Grubhofer) 14 days after the operation. The skin must be closed and no fluid may leak out. If this is not the case, PD Dr. Florian Grubhofer should be contacted.
• Pain Threshold: Mild discomfort (0–3/10 on the pain scale) is acceptable. More intense pain requires adjusting activities.
Phase 2: 3rd to 6th postoperative week
• Consistent Use of Sling: The sling must continue to be worn at all times.
• Passive Motion Exercises Allowed: The shoulder may only be moved passively using the healthy opposite arm.
• Pendulum Exercises Continue: These should be performed regularly to maintain mobility.
• No Active Use or Weight Bearing: The operated arm should not be actively used or bear any weight.
• Pain Threshold: Exercises should only be performed if pain remains mild (0–3/10). Stronger pain requires reducing movement or load.
Phase 3: 7th to 12th postoperative week
• Discontinuing the Sling: The sling can now be removed.
• Active Motion Exercises: The arm may now be actively moved.
• Independent Exercise Routine: The patient must perform learned exercises consistently.
• Physical Therapy 1–2 Times Per Week: Therapy remains essential to monitor range of motion, set new movement goals, and introduce new exercises.
• Pain Threshold: Mild pain (0–3/10) is acceptable. If pain increases, exercises should be adjusted accordingly.
Phase 4: from the 13th postoperative week
• Beginning Strength Training: Gradual introduction of strengthening exercises.
• Progressive Load Increase: Exercises should be progressively intensified until full load capacity is reached.
• Regular Physical Therapy Check-ups: Ongoing supervision is necessary to prevent incorrect movement patterns or overloading.
• Pain Threshold: Pain should not exceed 3/10 on the pain scale. If pain increases, exercises should be adjusted.
Please adhere strictly to these guidelines for optimal recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Dr. Florian Grubhofer or your physical therapist.
Best regards,
Florian Grubhofer, MD