SLING DURATION | WHEN DO I START PHYSIO? | WHEN CAN I START DRIVING? |
Remove as soon as possible. | You will begin physiotherapy two days after your operation. | You can start driving as soon as you feel comfortable and have full control |
Acute phase (0-2 weeks)
Goals
- Reduce pain
Rehabilitation
- Wean sling as soon as possible
- Early & graduated exercise pathway from passive, to active assist to active shoulder range of movement exercises within pain limits
Criteria for progression
- Control of pain
Intermediate phase (2-6 weeks)
Goals
- Return range of movement to greater than pre-op range
Rehabilitation
- Restore maximal range of movement through passive, active assisted and active exercises
- Ensure normal movement pattern with range of movement
- Gentle shoulder mobilisations with physiotherapy as needed
- Ensure scapular stabilisation and adequate control of scapulohumeral rhythm
- Hydrotherapy permitted
Criteria for progression
- Improvement in shoulder range
Late phase (>6 weeks)
Goals
- Full shoulder range of movement and function
Rehabilitation
- Progress range of movement exercises
- Improved shoulder strength through a graduated strengthening program
- Dynamic scapular control through range
Guidelines for return to functional activities
LIFTING | SWIMMING | GOLF |
No restrictions | 2 weeks | 2 weeks |
