Benefits of Physical Therapy After Shoulder Replacement

Over 100,000 shoulder replacement surgeries are performed each year, and for good reason: shoulder replacement surgery can restore shoulder function and relieve pain.

The recovery process, though, is just as important as the procedure itself — and physical therapy is a big part of that process.

Take a moment as our board-certified orthopedic surgeons explain what physical therapy is and the five benefits of physical therapy after your shoulder replacement at Orthopedic Specialists of Oakland County.

What is physical therapy?

While many people think of physical therapy as “just” stretching and exercise, the reality is that physical therapy is an umbrella that includes many different modalities. Physical therapy includes both passive and dynamic stretches, muscle-building exercises, manual manipulation, and massage.

Each physical therapy program is customized to meet you where you are in your healing journey, and for people just coming out of shoulder surgery, your plan helps you regain mobility, strength, and function after shoulder replacement.

5 benefits of physical therapy after shoulder replacement

Physical therapy is an important part of post-surgical care plans for virtually all orthopedic surgeries, and especially after joint replacements. 

Here are five benefits of physical therapy for both traditional and reverse shoulder replacement surgeries:

Physical therapy can improve your range of motion

Post-surgery stiffness is common, but a structured physical therapy program can gently stretch and strengthen your shoulder, improving your flexibility and mobility. This will help you perform everyday tasks like getting dressed more easily.

This also means that you can require less help for daily tasks and regain some independence back sooner.

Physical therapy strengthens the muscles that support your shoulders

After surgery, the muscles surrounding your shoulder may weaken due to inactivity. That’s normal, and physical therapy can help you rebuild strength in these muscles.

Strong muscles also provide better shoulder stability and help reduce the risk of future shoulder injury.

Physical therapy helps you manage post-surgical pain

Physical therapy helps manage and reduce post-surgical pain through targeted exercises and treatments like manual therapy, stretching, and ice/heat applications.

By improving your range of movement, physical therapy minimizes stiffness and discomfort, and less stiffness means a smoother recovery with less reliance on pain medication.

Staying consistent with physical therapy speeds up your recovery timeline

Your physical therapy team here at Orthopedic Specialists of Oakland County guides you through progressive exercises that promote healing without overstraining the joint. You’ll start with more passive stretches and then progress to active stretches and movements when you’re ready. 

Staying consistent with your outlined plan leads to a more efficient recovery and allows you to return to your daily activities more quickly.

Physical therapy helps you reach your personal post-op goals

Many factors may have led to a shoulder replacement, and just like those circumstances are unique, so are your post-op goals. 

Your physical therapists create customized rehabilitation programs based on your individual needs and recovery progress. Whether you're an athlete or someone who simply wants to regain basic shoulder function, physical therapy can be tailored to meet your specific goals and activity level. 

Make the most out of your rehabilitation

Physical therapy not only aids in short-term recovery but also sets the foundation for long-term shoulder health. In addition to sticking with your recommended physical therapy exercises and stretches, you can also:

• Avoid heavy lifting and overuse
• Use good posture and keep your shoulders, back, and neck aligned properly 
• Stay mindful of pain and listen to your body
• Incorporate ergonomic-friendly practices into your daily routine

Questions about your upcoming shoulder replacement or your physical therapy plan? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 248-335-2977. You can also use our online scheduling system to reserve your next appointment in Bloomfield Hills or Clarkston, Michigan.