(Always follow your surgeon’s guidelines and physical therapist’s recommendations.)
Phase 1: Early Motion (Weeks 0-6)
These exercises focus on gentle movement without straining the surgical site.
1. Pendulum Exercises
- Purpose: Prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
- How to Perform:
- Lean forward slightly, supporting yourself with your non-operated arm.
- Let the surgical arm hang down, moving it in small circles, forward and backward, and side to side.
- Perform for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
2. Passive External Rotation (Using a Stick)
- Purpose: Improve external rotation flexibility.
- How to Perform:
- Hold a stick with both hands, keeping elbows at your sides.
- Use your non-operated arm to push the affected arm outward.
- Stop at the first point of resistance (no pain).
- Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times.
Phase 2: Active Motion (Weeks 6-12)
These exercises focus on regaining controlled movement.
3. Assisted Shoulder Flexion (Wall Walks)
- Purpose: Improve overhead reaching ability.
- How to Perform:
- Stand facing a wall.
- Use your fingers to “walk” your hand up the wall as high as comfortable.
- Hold for 5 seconds, slowly return to start.
- Repeat 10 times.
4. Shoulder Abduction (Side Lifts)
- Purpose: Strengthen the deltoid and restore lateral movement.
- How to Perform:
- Keep arm straight and slowly lift to the side (avoid shrugging).
- Hold for 3 seconds, then slowly lower.
- Repeat 10-15 times.
Phase 3: Strengthening (Weeks 12+)
These exercises focus on regaining full function.
5. Shoulder External Rotation (Resistance Band)
- Purpose: Strengthen the rotator cuff and improve stability.
- How to Perform:
- Hold a resistance band with both hands, elbows at 90°.
- Gently rotate the surgical arm outward.
- Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times.
6. Shoulder Flexion with Dumbbell
- Purpose: Improve forward strength and endurance.
- How to Perform:
- Hold a light dumbbell (1-3 lbs).
- Lift arm forward to shoulder height.
- Hold for 3 seconds, then lower slowly.
- Repeat 10-15 times.
7. Shoulder Scapular Retraction (Posture Control)
- Purpose: Strengthen the shoulder blade muscles for stability.
- How to Perform:
- Sit or stand with a straight back.
- Squeeze shoulder blades together, holding for 5 seconds.
- Repeat 10-15 times.
Tips for Recovery
✔ Follow your surgeon’s guidelines – avoid movements restricted by your doctor.
✔ Pain vs. Discomfort – mild discomfort is normal, but avoid sharp pain.
✔ Consistency is Key – perform exercises daily for best results.
✔ Gradually Increase Resistance – start with low resistance and progress safely.
These exercises provide a structured recovery plan to help your patients regain function after shoulder replacement surgery. Let me know if you need any modifications or additions!
