The best way to sleep better after rotator cuff surgery is to treat the acute pain with anti-inflammatory medications and ice; sleeping on your back with the affected arm elevated; sleeping on an incline to reduce shoulder pressure; and rehab to improve recovery and reduce pain long term.
- Sleep on an Incline. Do not sleep flat on your back. ...
- Wear your sling. Wearing your sling during the day helps keep your arm in the proper position but also provides protection. ...
- Use a pillow prop. ...
- Time your medications. ...
- Ice before bed.
What is the best way to sleep after shoulder surgery?
The Best Sleeping Positions After Shoulder Surgery
- Wear a sling while sleeping. This will help to keep the arm stable while healing. ...
- Sleep in a reclined position. Propping yourself on pillows will keep you from turning over and sleeping on the recovering shoulder. ...
- Prop up the arm with a pillow. ...
- Follow your doctor’s advice. ...
- Take a walk. ...
- Ice the shoulder. ...
How long should you rest a torn rotator cuff?
- Start off by internally rotating the shoulder, putting the backs of your hands toward your thighs
- Extend the shoulder, reaching back behind you as high as you can
- Once you get stuck, start to externally rotate your shoulder as you keep reaching up overhead
- When you get to the overhead position, move your arms in front of the body on the way down
What to expect six weeks after rotator cuff surgery?
The first visit to physical or occupational therapy usually includes:
- Learning about the patient’s history
- Starting to gently move the shoulder
- Checking the fit of the patient’s sling
- Looking at the incision/scar
- Addressing any pain
- Education for home program exercises
How to sleep comfortably after shoulder surgery?
- Take your medicines with a little food before going to bed to avoid stomach irritation. ...
- Never take drugs with alcoholic drinks like beer, wine because the risk of toxic reactions in your body increases. ...
- Most patients who undergo shoulder surgery need strong medicines which they need for at least several days and sometimes two weeks.
How long after rotator cuff surgery can you sleep in a bed?
This is really going to depend on your exact surgery and how quickly you recover in general. However, a good rule of thumb is 4-6 months before you can go back to sleeping however you want.
How do you sleep with a sling after shoulder surgery?
0:131:55Post-op shoulder surgery-Sleeping with a sling! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBehind the shoulder blade and down to the bottom of the sling over here so when you roll on to it.MoreBehind the shoulder blade and down to the bottom of the sling over here so when you roll on to it. The pillow helps to hold the shoulder.
How can I sleep comfortably after rotator cuff surgery?
The best position for sleeping after shoulder surgery is on an incline, rather than flat on your back. For the first few days, you'll probably be most comfortable upright on a recliner.
Do and don'ts after rotator cuff surgery?
DON'TDo not put weight through your arm or lift anything for six weeks. ... Do not try to reach above or behind you. ... Do not lie on the operated side for a minimum of six weeks. ... Do not get your bandage wet. ... Do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen for the first twelve weeks. ... Do not soldier on.More items...•
What is the pain level after rotator cuff surgery?
You will not feel anything. The anesthesiologist may also administer a nerve block, which will numb the shoulder. Nerve blocks last after you wake up, so you will likely feel very little pain when you first wake up from the surgery.
How long before I can drive after rotator cuff surgery?
Historically, patients are restricted from driving for six weeks following a rotator cuff repair surgery.
How long does pain last after rotator cuff repair surgery?
This observation is supported by a study showing that in patients who have had rotator cuff surgery, strength in the shoulder muscles is not fully recovered until nine months after the surgery. As a result, it is normal to expect some continued symptoms of pain or soreness after rotator cuff surgery for several months.
Why is rotator cuff surgery recovery so painful?
Recovery from rotator cuff surgery is a lengthy process. Surgery on the shoulder to repair a rotator cuff tear usually produces significant pain and stiffness. Recovery from rotator cuff surgery is slow. This is because of the time it takes for the repaired rotator cuff tendon to heal back to the bone.
How long do you have to wear a sling after rotator cuff surgery?
Patients are often advised to wear a sling or brace for the first 4–6 weeks after rotator cuff repair surgery to prevent them from performing any physical activities involving the affected shoulder (3).
What is the fastest way to recover from rotator cuff surgery?
8 Tips to Speed Recovery After Rotator Cuff SurgeryWear a sling. To speed recovery, it is important to keep your shoulder immobilized initially after surgery so your tendon can heal. ... Sleep carefully. ... Ask for help. ... Watch for complications. ... Do the physical therapy. ... Keep comfortable. ... Be mindful of your movement. ... Pace yourself.
Is walking good after rotator cuff surgery?
You can do things like walk immediately. Usually, you will be in a sling for a period of 2 to 6 weeks depending on the type of surgery. During that time you can remove the sling to extend the elbow several times a day.
What can you do 2 weeks after rotator cuff surgery?
Physical therapy typically begins at about two weeks post-op, after the surgeon has rechecked the patient. Formal physical therapy in this phase should involve passive range of motion manually (by the physical therapist) or through passive exercises.
Can I sleep without a sling after shoulder surgery?
Support your arms with a pillow: Support your injured arm in bed and upright with a medium-sized pillow under your elbow and arm you can do this with or without a sling.
Should you keep a sling on in bed?
Sleeping. For some injuries your sling should be kept on while you are in bed at night, our Virtual Fracture Clinic team will advise you. You may find it more comfortable to sleep on your back initially with a pillow under your injured arm for support.
How can I make my arm sling more comfortable?
0:481:57Living With a Sling: Tips for Sleeping and Sitting Comfortably - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo again a little tip placing a double-up pillow underneath the sling. Still does the job ofMoreSo again a little tip placing a double-up pillow underneath the sling. Still does the job of protecting the shoulder.
How can I immobilize my shoulder while sleeping?
If you sleep on your non-painful side, hug a pillow in front of you. This will help prevent the affected shoulder slumping forwards too much and compressing the structures in the shoulder. It also helps stabilize the shoulder joint as well.
How to sleep after rotator cuff surgery?
Sleeping horizontally can be quite painful following rotator cuff surgery, so your physician will likely recommend sleeping on a reclining chair or with several stacked pillows on your bed. Sitting up places less pressure on your back ...
How to sleep after shoulder surgery?
Do a few light shoulder exercises, such as moving your arm back and forth slowly, to loosen up your shoulder muscles. These should be done throughout the day, but they can also help you return to sleep. You may wake up intermittently during the night for a week or two following surgery. This common side effect is caused by discomfort or stiffness in the shoulder. A few minutes of shoulder rolls and deep breaths should alleviate the stiffness and allow you to return to sleep. If you are in pain, you may take any prescribed pain medication. Once your shoulder is more comfortable, return to sleep on your back.
How to help a shoulder that hurts when sleeping?
Sitting up places less pressure on your back and shoulder, allowing it to heal properly. After a few weeks or months, try sleeping horizontally in your bed to see if you experience shoulder pain. If sleeping continues to be prohibitively difficult, alert your physician. Do a few light shoulder exercises, such as moving your arm back ...
How to get rid of stiffness in shoulder?
A few minutes of shoulder rolls and deep breaths should alleviate the stiffness and allow you to return to sleep. If you are in pain, you may take any prescribed pain medication. Once your shoulder is more comfortable, return to sleep on your back.
How long after rotator cuff surgery can you sleep in a bed?
Doctors recommend using a recliner for the initial 4-6 weeks after shoulder surgery. But if you invest in a right pillow – wedge pillows which can keep you in a reclined position, you can start sleeping on the bed one week post surgery.
Why do you sleep on your back after shoulder surgery?
Sleep on your back is an ideal position according to the doctor after any surgery or otherwise. It helps to relieve shoulder pain and reduce unnecessary pressure from the shoulder. So train yourself with this position and that should help recover soon as possible.
What to do if you don't have a recliner?
But if you don’t have a recliner, then use pillows on a bed and make a 45-degree reclined position with a bundles of pillows. It will be beneficial after rotator cuff surgery and relieve pain and ache during sleep.
What causes shoulder surgery?
One of the most common causes of shoulder surgery is damage to the rotator cuff muscles and tendons.
How to heal rotator cuff?
Do’s After Rotator Cuff Surgery: 1 You can take a warm bath after surgery but keep your shoulder covered with a plastic cloth to prevent getting wet. 2 Avoid sleep on affected side position 3 Hold your sling all the time, even at night. 4 Meet your therapist and clear your all doubts about surgery 5 Change your bandage regularly as recommended. 6 After one week of surgery, you can move your shoulder while walking but in small motions and increase day after day. The movements are helpful to prevent blood clots or jamming the positions after surgery and keep the blood circulation in the shoulder. 7 You can follow some simple exercises at home suggested by the therapist. 8 Keep the surgery area clean and dry 9 Eat a healthy diet. 10 Take medication on time.
How long does it take to recover from rotator cuff surgery?
Furthermore, rotator cuff surgery can take about six months for a full recovery. So, don’t do anything that is not recommended by the doctor and rest is best needed during this time.
What joint is the meeting point of the shoulder blade and the collar bone?
The acromioclavicular joint is the meeting point of the shoulder blade and the collar bone.
How long does it take to sleep after shoulder surgery?
Thanks! Depending on the severity of your shoulder injury and the type of surgical procedure, it might take a few weeks to get a good night’s sleep. As such, ask your doctor about sleep medication.
What is the best position to sleep after shoulder surgery?
The best position for most people with shoulder surgeries to sleep in is in a reclined position because it puts less strain on the shoulder joint and surrounding soft tissues. To get into a reclined position while in bed, bolster your lower back and mid back with a few pillows.
How to prevent rolling over when sleeping?
As an alternative, move your bed against a wall and sleep with your sore shoulder wedged gently against it in order to prevent rolling over.
How to stop shoulder pain from moving?
For the first few weeks, you should also wear your sling in bed, which will support your shoulder and prevent it from moving while you sleep.
How to get rid of sore shoulder?
1. Apply ice packs before bedtime. Managing your shoulder pain or soreness before going to bed makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, which is important for your body's healing process to work at top efficiency.
What to do if you don't have ice?
If you don't have any ice, use a bag of frozen veggies or fruit from your freezer.
Can you sleep after shoulder surgery?
However, there are some guidelines and tips that will allow your to sleep more comfortably after shoulder surgery.
How to sleep after rotator cuff surgery?
During the recovery process, stick to these tips to help you sleep better. 1. Sleep in a Reclined Position. The best way to ensure that you are not causing further strain to your injury is to assume a reclined resting position.
What is the best position to sleep after shoulder surgery?
The best position to sleep after shoulder surgery is on your back in a reclined position. The reclined position gives the most comfort to your shoulders, arms, and back. It also prevents you from turning on your side and putting weight on your shoulder. You can also put a pillow behind the shoulder blade to support the arm.
Why is my shoulder instability?
Instability of the shoulder occurs when the humerus gets detached from the shoulder socket. The injury may be sudden or due to the gradual overuse of shoulder ligaments.
Why do people sleep on their backs?
Similar to embracing the yoga position of Shavasana (dead body pose), sleeping on the back allows you to maintain a neutral body position and also prevents any aches and pains.
What is the anatomy of the shoulder?
The Anatomy of the Shoulder. The shoulders form one of the largest and most functional joints in the human body. We are capable of shifting our shoulders through an extended range of motions, both simple and complex. The extent of movement on our shoulders also affects the scope with which we can move our arms and neck.
When is shoulder surgery done?
This surgery is usually carried out when there is excess pain in the tendons attached to the shoulder blade.
How to support shoulder when sleeping?
Support the Arm with a Pillow. While sleeping, it is possible for your arm to fall back and rest in an uncomfortable position. When the arm is positioned in an unstable manner from the shoulder, it can cause excess strain and result in pain. While sleeping, rest a pillow under the arm to support the shoulder. 5.
How to do rotator cuff surgery?
Do’s after Rotator cuff surgery: 1 Move your fingers and thumbs in and out of your fist 5-10 times an hour. Try to put your finger right on your fist. 2 Always hold the sling unless you are changing clothes or doing physical therapy. If there are conflicting instructions from your doctor and therapist, please meet your doctor to clarify. 3 Take a shower, but make sure to cover your shoulders with something protective like plastic from getting wet. It may be easier to take a sponge bath until the suture removal. 4 Change your bandage 4-5 days after surgery and cover the incision with a bandage. The incision can remain open when it stops flowing. 5 Move your shoulders while walking as much as you can. It is essential to keep the blood flowing in your legs to prevent blood clots. 6 Use your hands to write. 7 Move your elbows up and down and close to your body when not in the sling. 8 Sleep carefully. Avoid sleeping on the side of your surgery hand. 9 Watch for complications 10 Do physical activity, as suggested by a physical therapist. 11 Feel comfortable 12 Watch your hand movements. 13 Check diet 14 Manage by taking medicines and by ice therapy 15 Take care of your surgical incisions.
How often should you put your finger on your fist after rotator cuff surgery?
Do’s after Rotator cuff surgery: Move your fingers and thumbs in and out of your fist 5-10 times an hour. Try to put your finger right on your fist. Always hold the sling unless you are changing clothes or doing physical therapy. If there are conflicting instructions from your doctor and therapist, please meet your doctor to clarify.
What is the procedure to examine a rotator cuff?
Diagnostic images such as X-rays and MRI can help gather more information, and another option is to perform an arthroscopic examination of the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff surgery is usually performed arthroscopically. This is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon inserts a camera and small instruments through small incisions.
How to cover shoulder after suture removal?
It may be easier to take a sponge bath until the suture removal. Change your bandage 4-5 days after surgery and cover the incision with a bandage. The incision can remain open when it stops flowing.
Why does my shoulder tear?
However, sometimes a sudden injury or repetitive movements can damage the muscles and tendons in your shoulder and cause the rotator cuff to tear. Your shoulder joint is made up of a group ...
How to prevent blood clots after a sling surgery?
Use your hands to write. Move your elbows up and down and close to your body when not in the sling. Sleep carefully. Avoid sleeping on the side of your surgery hand. Do physical activity, as suggested by a physical therapist.
What to do if pain is not controlled with pain reliever?
If your pain is not controlled with a pain reliever, or for any reason, you cannot tolerate the medication, contact doctor. If you have a problem or concern, please contact the doctor. Complications are rare, but knowing the signs is essential.
