Shoulder Pain After Surgery

Your shoulder is responsible for several motions. You need it to stretch, lift, and move your arms up and down. However, pain in this region, especially after surgery, can make it difficult for you to carry out your daily activities. Unfortunately, without proper treatment, shoulder pain may lead to further complications. 

Fortunately, physical therapy in Woodstock, GA, can help with shoulder pain. The treatment is drug-free and can address the root cause of your shoulder pain. Please read further to learn how physical therapy can help shoulder pain after surgery.

What Is Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain is any pain you feel in or around your shoulder joint. This pain may be dull, sharp, or severe. It can also happen suddenly or gradually, and depending on the severity and the cause of the pain, it can be accompanied by other symptoms.

What Are The Causes Of Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain can result from the following conditions;

• Arthritis
• Broken shoulder
• Dislocation
• Overuse
• Bursitis
• Nerve injury
• Poor posture
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Froze shoulder
• Shoulder impingement

Why Do You Feel Shoulder Pain After Surgery?

Surgery is an invasive procedure that can cause pain. Unfortunately, the intensity of this pain can vary in people depending on the type of surgery, surgical technique, pre-existing conditions, and pain threshold. Some of the causes of shoulder pain after surgery include;

Trauma

Surgery involves cutting and stretching your tissues. This then causes an inflammatory response, resulting in shoulder pain.

Shoulder immobilization

Although rest can promote healing after surgery, immobilizing your shoulder for too long can lead to muscle weakness and shoulder pain.

Surgical technique

Minimally invasive surgeries like arthroscopies and laparoscopies do not cause as much pain as traditional open surgeries. However, laparoscopies may cause trapped gas due to the carbon dioxide used during the procedure, leading to shoulder pain. 

How Long Should Shoulder Pain Last After Surgery?

The duration and intensity of shoulder pain post-surgery varies for everyone. During the first 48 hours after your procedure, the effects of the anesthesia wear off, causing pain from surgical trauma. This pain should start to decrease within the first six weeks post-surgery. However, you may still experience mild discomfort for a few months. Nevertheless, you should experience significant improvement within 3 to 4 months. 

How To Get Rid Of Shoulder Pain 

You can try home remedies to relieve shoulder pain. These remedies include;

Medications

Your surgeon may prescribe over-the-counter medications to relieve shoulder pain. It is advisable to use the drugs as prescribed in the short term. If your pain persists, your doctor may prescribe other treatment methods.

Ice therapy

Ice therapy can help reduce inflammation and numb your shoulder area, reducing pain. You can apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid using the ice directly on your skin to prevent frostbite. Instead, wrap it in a towel or cloth before applying it to your skin.

Heat therapy

Heat therapy can also help to relax your muscles and relieve stiffness. You can apply a warm compress to the sore area or take a warm shower. However, do not use a direct heat source when applying a warm compress. Instead, use a towel or cloth. 

Rest

You should rest your shoulder to promote healing. Keeping your shoulders elevated the first few days after surgery can reduce swelling. It is also best to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until your doctor tells you it is safe.

When Should You See Your Physical Therapist For Shoulder Pain?

If you still feel shoulder pain despite the home remedies, you should get shoulder pain treatment in Woodstock, GA, especially if you have accompanying symptoms such as;

• Fever, swelling, or redness of the shoulder joint 
• Intense pain
• Inability to use your shoulder at all
• Visible deformity
• Persistent pain for more than 2 to 4 weeks despite at-home remedies
• Numbness or tingling sensation

How Can Your Physical Therapist Help With Shoulder Pain?

When you visit your physical therapist for shoulder pain, they can monitor your symptoms and ask about your medical history to create a treatment plan. Shoulder therapy in Woodstock, GA, includes exercises, modalities, and manual therapy. The treatment aims to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and prevent further injury.

During your treatment, your physical therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Also, after your treatment, your therapist will create a treatment program you can follow at home to stretch and strengthen your muscles.

Physical Therapy For Shoulder Pain

Physical therapy for shoulder pain includes several techniques for alleviating pain and preventing a recurrence. These techniques include;

Therapeutic exercises

Physical therapy for shoulder pain includes stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve pain and improve your range of motion. Your physical therapist will create an exercise plan and show you how to do the exercises safely. 

Physical therapy exercises for shoulder pain include pendulum, doorway stretch, and arm circles. Your therapist will recommend starting these exercises at a low intensity and gradually increasing them as you progress through your treatment.

Manual therapy

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment for shoulder pain. Your physical therapist may use massages and joint manipulation to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation to relieve shoulder pain.

Electrical stimulation 

Electrical stimulation is a safe and effective modality that involves applying heat to your shoulders to contract your muscles and improve blood circulation. Your physical therapist will apply an electrical current from a device to the sore area. 

Postural training

Your physical therapist will teach you proper techniques for maintaining your posture to reduce shoulder pain. Correct posture distributes your weight properly and reduces your risk for injuries. 

Conclusion

Shoulder pain can be devastating, especially after a surgery that is supposed to make you feel better. Fortunately, FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers - Hickory Flat has a team of physical therapists committed to helping you heal. Your physical therapist will monitor your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to help you heal properly.