How Do You Care For Yourself After Rotator Cuff Surgery?
Caring for yourself after any surgery can be a challenge. With rotator cuff surgery, you will need a lot of patience and a personal assistant. Recovery starts at the hospital and will continue for many weeks, and perhaps months, of home care and physical therapy. The success of recovery will depend on how well you adhere to the treatment program. Talk to your physician and physical therapist before being discharged from the hospital. They will give you instructions on how to care for your shoulder and what to do or not to do. Ask questions and be clear about all the instructions. Request assistance for personal care when at home. You will need help with dressing and undressing, bathing and other personal routines. When bathing, protect the incision with plastic wrap; do not soak the area. If bandages get wet, replace them with a dry dressing. Do not submerge the shoulder in water until the stitches have been removed. Do not drive or lift the shoulder or heavy objects until given the ok