Navigating the Holiday Season Post-Shoulder Replacement: Our 3 Top Tips

Shoulder replacement surgery lets you regain pain-free motion in the upper part of your body. Along the way, however, you have to get through months of post-surgery recovery before you can enjoy the results of your procedure. 

When you’re still recovering from surgery during the holidays, you face a few unusual complications. If your holiday plans include traveling, hosting, or even a lot of cooking, you may need special accommodations this year.

Dr. Michael L. Blackwell and the team at the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine support you before, during, and after your shoulder replacement. From locations in Tomball, Kingwood, and Conroe, Texas, Dr. Blackwell advises you on what to do, and not to do, during your recovery period.

Your holidays can still be happy, filled chock-full of traditions and seasonal activities, but you may also need to make some changes this year. Here are some tips to keep you healthy, your recovery on track, and on top of pain this holiday season.

Plan small for the holidays after shoulder replacement

No one likes to cancel plans, but recent shoulder replacement surgery might make this a good year to scale back on holiday traditions. Rest and reduced use are key for the early stages of your recovery.

Your shoulder and arm have less functionality for the first month after your procedure. Gentle activity is fine 2-6 weeks into your recovery, but vigorous use could still over-stress your healing upper body.

Avoid lifting anything heavier than a pound, and watch out for pushing and pulling motions, which can strain your healing shoulder. Replacement of your right shoulder also means you need to cut back on driving, which may affect your holiday travel plans.

Set up recovery-friendly spaces wherever you are

A recovery-friendly space makes it easy for you to access medications, dressings, and any assistive devices. 

Before your procedure, you may have prepared a space for your recovery in your own home. But what if having visitors means you need to give up that space? Or what if you’re planning to travel and stay with friends, family, or at a hotel?

You can set up a recovery-friendly space around you wherever you go. It’s worth the time to ensure you have what you need to keep your recovery as smooth as possible. Occupational therapy can assist you in determining what features your recovery space should have, even when traveling or away from home.

Keep up your physical therapy during the holidays

The holiday season often involves disruptions to your daily routines. You may not be able to make regular appointments due to holiday closures or travel. But that’s no reason to let your physical therapy treatment slide.

Physical therapy is essential for your post-surgery recovery. Even during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, set time aside for physical therapy appointments and at-home stretch and exercise sessions. Your body will thank you, as you continue to rebuild strength and flexibility after your shoulder replacement.

If you’re recovering this holiday season, give yourself the time, space, and bandwidth to stay focused on healing. With the right recovery, your prosthetic shoulder replacement can last you a lifetime, increasing your ability to travel and spend quality time with those you love.

For personalized shoulder surgery support, contact Dr. Blackwell and the team at the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine today. Schedule your appointment online or over the phone.