Dear Patients,
Proper rehabilitation following shoulder stabilization surgery is essential to ensure optimal healing and recovery. Please follow the phases outlined below:
Phase 1: Immediately After Surgery – First 14 Days
• Strict immobilization in a sling is essential for proper healing. Wearing the sling consistently is a key requirement for successful treatment.
• Pain management: Pain medication should be taken as needed, up to the prescribed maximum dose. If no pain is present, medication can be omitted.
• Cold therapy: Cold packs may be applied to reduce pain. Important: Always place a towel between the skin and the cold pack to prevent frostbite.
• Movement:
• Fingers, wrist, and elbow may be moved actively.
• Passive pendulum exercises may be started from the 3rd postoperative day onward.
• Wound care:
• Between the 10th and 14th postoperative day, the wound dressing and sutures should be removed by your primary care physician.
• If absorbable sutures were used, no removal is necessary, but a medical check-up should still be performed by your primary care physician or PD Dr. Florian Grubhofer.
Phase 2: 3rd to 6th Postoperative Week
• The sling must continue to be worn at all times.
• Passive movements:
• In addition to pendulum exercises, passive range-of-motion exercises using the healthy arm are now allowed.
• Driving restrictions: As long as the sling is worn, driving is not permitted.
• Physical therapy:
• The therapist will guide and supervise the exercises.
• Patients should perform their rehabilitation exercises independently on a regular basis.
Phase 3: 7th to 12th Postoperative Week
• The sling may now be discontinued.
• Active range-of-motion exercises are allowed.
• Restrictions:
• The combined abduction and external rotation movement (throwing motion) is still prohibited until the 12th postoperative week.
• No weight-bearing on the arm during this phase.
• Pain management:
• Mild discomfort (up to 3 out of 10 on the pain scale) is acceptable.
• If pain exceeds this level, exercises should be adjusted or reduced.
Phase 4: 13th to 16th Postoperative Week
• Full range of motion is now permitted, including the throwing motion.
• Beginning of strengthening:
• Light resistance exercises (3 to 5 kg) may be started.
• Consistent daily training is required.
• Physical therapy:
• Continue therapy 1 to 2 times per week for exercise progression and supervision.
• Pain thresholds should still be respected, as outlined in Phase 3.
Phase 5: 17th to 24th Postoperative Week
• Full weight-bearing is now allowed.
• Sports activities may be resumed.
• Contact sports are permitted, provided clearance is given by PD Dr. Florian Grubhofer at the 3-month follow-up appointment.
Best regards,
PD Dr. Florian Grubhofer