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Shoulder replacement: Post-surgery suggestions

Posted by anncgrl @anncgrl, Jul 29, 2019

Good Morning! I am going to have total shoulder replacement surgery tomorrow. I have had a total knee replacement and several other surgeries but, for some reason, this surgery intimidates me. I think it may be because I have heard such a wide range of comments about the recovery time and the pain. I think I finally understand that there may be people who are well-meaning but are talking about procedures they had that were not as comprehensive as total shoulder replacement. One question I have is related to practical advice. What kind of clothing did you wear to accommodate your arm and sling? I am a 65 year old woman. Any post surgery suggestions for comfort and daily living are welcome.

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agentkate | @agentkate | Apr 29 12:49pm
In reply to @prestol "My surgery is three weeks from today, and I am busy preparing. It’s on my right..." + (show)
@prestol

My surgery is three weeks from today, and I am busy preparing. It’s on my right (dominant) side. Is there a type of bra that worked one-handed? How about compression stockings, which I need to wear? I bought an “adaptive” T-shirt with loads of snaps, but I don’t think it will be comfortable. I have both a recliner and an adjustable bed. At what point were you allowed to drive, and who makes that decision? Thank you for all your invaluable advice!

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I found it near impossible to wear a bra. This time around I bought a poncho that I can just slip over my head if I need to go out. I remember the last shoulder replacement. I got the bra on one side never did get it hooked and the other side you couldn’t see because my arm was covering it. I don’t have any idea how you’re going to get compression stockings on With one hand. You might ask your doctor or your nurse how you’re supposed to do that. Good luck.

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agentkate | @agentkate | Apr 29 12:56pm
In reply to @nonnahelen "You are such a resourceful person and you have thought of everything! I would just add..." + (show)
@nonnahelen

You are such a resourceful person and you have thought of everything! I would just add some extra large clothes,like shirts and pants,easy to to get on and off. I have no doubt you will get through this surgery just fine!

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I have the clothes. My house is in a very private spot and I bought 144 acres of woods so nobody can see me unless I walk up the road. I’m very fortunate to have such a beautiful spot while recovering. I even have an occasional Bear. I will probably be in the sling for about six weeks and the only place I really have to go is down the street to get my mail which is about a block away. Since I also have trouble walking sometimes because of arthritis in my back I do have a walker. But, I won’t have to worry about doing my hair or putting my makeup on because only my friends will see me and who cares.

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dica | @dica | Apr 30 11:27am

I've had two shoulder replacements and did not attempt to get dress for the first two weeks. Just wore loungers. I wore a bra that tied in the front with zippers. My husband was a great help in helping me get dressed. I did not go out for the first month, rested at home and was quite spoiled by family who would come to visit and help out.

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2 replies
prestol | @prestol | May 1 9:10am
In reply to @dica "I've had two shoulder replacements and did not attempt to get dress for the first two..." + (show)
@dica

I've had two shoulder replacements and did not attempt to get dress for the first two weeks. Just wore loungers. I wore a bra that tied in the front with zippers. My husband was a great help in helping me get dressed. I did not go out for the first month, rested at home and was quite spoiled by family who would come to visit and help out.

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Thanks for all the info about clothing. I am busy buying oversized sweats and button-down shirts, a poncho and slip on shoes. I am lucky that I have a husband who will be my “caregiver”. Now my only concern is there might very well be a strike at the hospital where my surgery will take place, and it would most likely be postponed. That would be unfortunate because I am mentally ready to get it over with.

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1 reply
agentkate | @agentkate | May 1 10:03am
In reply to @dica "I've had two shoulder replacements and did not attempt to get dress for the first two..." + (show)
@dica

I've had two shoulder replacements and did not attempt to get dress for the first two weeks. Just wore loungers. I wore a bra that tied in the front with zippers. My husband was a great help in helping me get dressed. I did not go out for the first month, rested at home and was quite spoiled by family who would come to visit and help out.

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I knew I should’ve kept one of those three husbands

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1 reply
dica | @dica | May 2 10:23am
In reply to @prestol "Thanks for all the info about clothing. I am busy buying oversized sweats and button-down shirts,..." + (show)
@prestol

Thanks for all the info about clothing. I am busy buying oversized sweats and button-down shirts, a poncho and slip on shoes. I am lucky that I have a husband who will be my “caregiver”. Now my only concern is there might very well be a strike at the hospital where my surgery will take place, and it would most likely be postponed. That would be unfortunate because I am mentally ready to get it over with.

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Hopefully the strike will hold off and you can have your surgery. Glad I could be of some help. I know I searched on youtube and the internet but it was difficult getting the info. I hear you when you say mentally ready because getting there is sometimes very difficult. Good luck with your surgery!

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prestol | @prestol | May 2 10:44am
In reply to @agentkate "I knew I should’ve kept one of those three husbands" + (show)
@agentkate

I knew I should’ve kept one of those three husbands

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LOL!!

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