After Shoulder Surgery: What Do I Need?
- Posted on: Feb 14 2019
You may be so busy thinking of your surgery day that you aren’t keeping yourself aware of what happens after. You’ll be groggy, tired, and sore. Even more, you won’t be wanting to run out for all the things that will help you live more comfortably. Before your surgery date, stock up and keep yourself happy.
Keep reading for some of the best things you can collect, buy, or borrow before you get home from your shoulder surgery.
Pillows for your bed 
You will not want to sleep completely flat as it will put stress on your shoulder. If you are planning to sleep in bed, place two pillows on top of each other and then a third on top in a vertical manner to create a wedge. Pillow wedges can also be purchased. A recliner chair is very useful as another option.
Medication organizer
You will be taking several medications around the clock that may include: pain killer, tylenol, colace stool softener, and antibiotics to name a few. All these meds need to be organized. Small plastic cups with a post it labeled with the time will help keep track of what to take and when to take it.
Packaged and frozen food
Fresh food will always be the best option, as it has the most nutrients. But, preparing food fresh every day isn’t always possible. If you’re really organized, making food beforehand and freezing it is a great way to eat how you normally do. Otherwise, frozen fruits and veggies or easy pre-made meals will be fine in the short-term.
Toiletries
While you’re at the store for food, pick up extra toothpaste, deodorant, and face wash. Avoiding any unnecessary trips while you’re healing is the goal, and you won’t want to run out for one little tube of toothpaste while you’re healing. Return to driving can be 2 weeks or longer, depending upon the procedure performed.
High fiber foods
Constipation after surgery is very common. Buy some high-fiber foods at the store to help you feel better. Here are some foods you may consider:
- Apples
- Pears
- Broccoli
- Raspberries
- Oatmeal
- Black beans
- Prunes
- Blueberries
ICE
Take some water bottles, or plastic containers and fill with water and place in the freezer. These can then be placed in your cryotherapy cooler instead of ice cubes. They will last longer and give you a break from having to make ice constantly.
No matter what, being prepared will help you feel more in control of your healing. It can cut down on frustration and last-minute emergencies. And that’s when you’ll feel more confident and less at the will of other people. If you want more information about shoulder surgery and your recovery, give us a call at (508) 363-6363.
Tagged with: preparing for surgery, rotator cuff repair, shoulder surgery, shoulder surgery recovery
Posted in: Orthopedic Surgery, Rotator Cuff Injury, Sports Medicine