Can I be alone after shoulder surgery? (2023)

Can you stay by yourself after shoulder surgery?

You'll need someone to drive you home after surgery. If you live alone, make sure you've got someone—a friend or relative—lined up to check on you once you return home from the operation. It's also a good idea to have their contact information just in case you need something.

Do you need a caregiver after shoulder surgery?

Your responsible adult caregiver should stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery to help you with medications, movement, encourage fluids, activities of daily living, and to help observe you for any possible complications. Follow your weight bearing and movement restrictions closely.

How do you take care of yourself after shoulder surgery?

How long do you need someone to stay with you after rotator cuff surgery?

It takes six to eight weeks for the tendon to heal to the bone. Complete recovery time varies by size of the tear. For a small tears, full recovery time is about four months, for large tears, six months. For severe, massive tears, a complete recovery can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

What to do when you have no one to pick you up from surgery?

Offer suggestions for an escort.

Ask if the patient might have a neighbor or religious organization that would assist, she says. "Lots of churches have people on call to help with rides," Ogg says. "They might also be able to stay overnight as a caregiver." A private duty nurse might be another option, she adds.

Can I take care of myself after rotator cuff surgery?

You will not have complete use of your affected arm for a few months after surgery. You can use your affected arm for writing, eating, or drinking, but move it only at the elbow or wrist. Do not use it for anything else except prescribed exercises until the sling has been removed.

How long should I stay in bed after shoulder surgery?

You will most likely need to sleep in a semi-reclined position for at least six weeks after surgery, sometimes longer. If you don't own a recliner, it may be worthwhile to buy one or borrow one from a friend before you have your shoulder surgery.

How long are you laid up after shoulder surgery?

Depending on your job, you may be able to go back to work as early as 2 to 3 weeks after surgery, as long as you avoid certain arm movements, such as lifting. It takes at least 6 months to return to full activity.

How long should you sleep in a recliner after shoulder surgery?

Do not sleep flat on your back. Sleeping on an incline for 4-6 weeks after surgery is best. For the first week or two, a recliner may be the most comfortable option. Purchasing a 45 degree wedge from a medical supply store can also provide a stable base to prop yourself up in the bed.

What happens first week after shoulder surgery?

In the beginning, your shoulder will be sore, so it's best to keep up with your pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon. Many patients have difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position at first, and find that sleeping in a recliner, or propped up on lots of pillows, can be more comfortable.

Can you walk around after shoulder surgery?

Although your arm will likely be immobilized in a sling for four to six weeks after the surgery, you can return to most of your normal activities within a few days of surgery. You will be able to drive and walk, but remember you will be doing these things with one arm.

Can I drive 2 weeks after rotator cuff surgery?

According to a new study, it is safe for patients who have undergone rotator cuff repair to return to driving just two weeks after surgery.

How long do I have to sleep in a sling after rotator cuff surgery?

The sling is typically used for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. You should not do any reaching, lifting, pushing, or pulling with your shoulder during the first six weeks after surgery. You should not reach behind your back with the operative arm.

Do you go home the same day after rotator cuff surgery?

Rotator cuff surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure, so you should go home the same day. You'll wear a hospital gown, and your surgery will be performed under general anesthesia.

Do you need someone to accompany you to surgery?

You will receive anesthesia, so you must have someone there to be responsible for you. This can be a professional sitter or patient escort, presumably; ask the hospital booking staff to give you names of agencies.

Do you need someone to stay with you after surgery?

It's best to have someone with you for at least the first 24 hours after general anesthesia. You may continue to be sleepy, and your judgment and reflexes may take time to return to normal. If you are taking opioids for pain, you won't be able to drive until you stop taking them.

Can you care for yourself after surgery?

While your surgeon removes or repairs bone or tissue, it's your body's ability to heal that completes the mission. That's why taking care of yourself after an operation will have a significant impact on a successful outcome.

What do I need at home after rotator cuff surgery?

How do you clean armpits after shoulder surgery?

What should be used to clean under the arm following shoulder surgery? Use warm water only. Avoid using soaps or deodorant, as these tend to irritate the skin under the armpit area.

What should I wear home after rotator cuff surgery?

Loose-fitting shirts that are easy to put on, like button-down shirts and oversized t-shirts, are best for post-surgery. You can also find post-surgical shirts made specifically for shoulder surgery patients at online retailers. When getting dressed, focus on putting the surgical arm in first.

How soon after shoulder surgery can you shower?

You can take a shower 3 days after your surgery. Before you take a shower, wrap your shoulder in plastic (your shoulder should be wrapped in plastic until your stitches or the strips have been taken out). DO NOT take baths until your surgeon says it is safe to do so. Keep the dressings and puncture sites clean and dry.

Can I take my sling off to sleep?

Should I Wear a Sling While Sleeping? Yes. You should only be removing your sling for dressing and bathing. This helps keep you from unconsciously putting your arm in a bad position and waking up in a world of pain.

What do you wear for shoulder surgery?

Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes that are easy to put on. Your shirt should be loose fitting through the sleeves and shoulders and button up the front. Bring all medicines that you are taking to the hospital with you. Do not bring valuables or large amounts of money with you to the hospital.

How do you keep busy after shoulder surgery?

How many days after shoulder surgery does pain last?

Post-Operative Period up to 6 weeks

Pain will vary from person to person and depend on the extent of the repair to the shoulder. The frequent application of cold packs to the area will help to reduce the swelling and the pain. The first phase of recovery can potentially last up to 6 weeks after the surgery.

How long before I can raise my arm after shoulder surgery?

Typically, you will be unable to actively lift your arm up, out to the side, or behind your back for about 6 to 8 weeks. Your surgeon's protocol will dictate your progression in physical therapy.

What to do after surgery if you live alone?

What are the restrictions after shoulder surgery?

You should not do any reaching, lifting, pushing, or pulling with your shoulder during the first six weeks after surgery. You should not reach behind your back with the operative arm. You may remove your arm from the sling to bend and straighten your elbow and to move your fingers several times a day.

Should someone stay with you after surgery?

It's best to have someone with you for at least the first 24 hours after general anesthesia. You may continue to be sleepy, and your judgment and reflexes may take time to return to normal. If you are taking opioids for pain, you won't be able to drive until you stop taking them.

Who takes care of you after surgery?

You may need some help from your family or a health care professional. Make arrangements in advance if your surgeon suggests getting a nurse, physical therapist, or health aide. You can get recommendations from your friends, doctor, hospital's home care department, or insurance company.

Can you hire someone to take care of you after surgery?

A nurse can be available at any point the client needs after surgery. Most commonly, a nurse can be present at the client's home or place of recovery when they arrive. Nurses are also available to meet the client at the hospital, should they need assistance on the journey home.

Can I ride in a car after shoulder surgery?

After Operation

After surgery, one of the most popular questions patients ask the shoulder surgeon is, “When can I drive again?” In general, you should avoid driving for at least six to twelve weeks or until your doctor says you don't need to wear the sling any more.

Can you drive a car after shoulder surgery?

Post-Surgery

In general, you'll want to avoid driving a car for at least six to 12 weeks, or until your doctor has indicated you no longer need to wear a sling. Driving with one arm is unsafe, and the shoulder that underwent surgery shouldn't be moved too far away from the body.

How do you shower after shoulder surgery?

You can take a shower 3 days after your surgery. Before you take a shower, wrap your shoulder in plastic (your shoulder should be wrapped in plastic until your stitches or the strips have been taken out). DO NOT take baths until your surgeon says it is safe to do so. Keep the dressings and puncture sites clean and dry.

How do you clean your armpits after shoulder surgery?

What should be used to clean under the arm following shoulder surgery? Use warm water only. Avoid using soaps or deodorant, as these tend to irritate the skin under the armpit area.