WEARING A SHOULDER SLING

The type of sling, and the amount of time you will need to wear the sling, will depend on the operation performed.

 

Manipulation under anaesthetic

Capsular release

The sling can be discarded as soon as possible.

Following surgery you may have a nerve block where the arm will feel numb and will not move normally. Wear the sling until this wears off (12-24 hours). Take the sling off to exercise the arm, every hour, as shown by the physiotherapist.

 

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression

Acromio-clavicular joint excision

Excision calcific deposits

 

The sling is for comfort only and should be discarded as soon as possible (1-2 days).

Take the sling off to exercise the arm, every hour, as shown by the physiotherapist.

It may be more comfortable to wear the sling when sleeping, for a little longer, if the shoulder is painful.

 

Shoulder replacement

You must wear the sling for 3-6 weeks depending on the type of shoulder replacement. You must sleep with the sling on.

Take the sling off to exercise the arm 4-5 times per day, as shown by the physiotherapist.

Remove the sling to wash, dry the arm and put on your clothes. Dress the affected arm first.

 

 

Shoulder stabilisation

SLAP repair

Weaver-Dunn procedure

The sling must be worn for 6 weeks.

Remove the sling to wash, dry the underarm and put on your clothes. Dress the affected arm first. Do not lift or twist the arm when dressing.

 

 

Rotator cuff repair

The sling must be worn for 3-6 weeks depending on the size of the repair. Remove the sling to wash, dry the arm and put on your clothes. Dress the affected arm first. Do not lift or twist the arm when dressing.

If you have a large tear you may have to wear a wedge, under your arm, which holds your elbow away from your side (abduction sling). Do not remove this sling to wash and wear your clothes over the sling.

 LIVING WITH A SHOULDER SLING

 

 If you have a Rotator Cuff Repair, Stabilisation shoulder or Shoulder Replacement operation you will have to wear a sling for several weeks. Here are some of the things you will have to consider.

 

 Types of sling:

  

  Poly-sling    Abduction sling

 

 The type of sling you wear will depend on the operation performed by the consultant. 

 

 Dressing:

 

In the first 3-6 weeks you may find it easier to wear your clothes over the sling. You will require loose clothing that fastens at the front or large baggy     t-shirts.

 

When you are allowed to wear your sling or abduction sling over your clothes here is some advice:

 

 

Ø   Once you are able to dress, always dress the operation arm first.

Ø   Sit on the edge of a chair or stand, lean forward, letting the operation arm hang by your side.

Ø   Slide your clothes over the operation arm using your un-operated arm.

Ø   Do not assist with the operation arm just let it hang.

Ø   Once the arm is fully in the sleeve bring the garment around your back and dress the un-operated arm.

Ø   Fasten the garment with the un-operated arm.

Ø   Once you are dressed put the sling back on.

  

Dressing the operation arm

 

ADVICE

·     Avoid clothing with small buttons, hooks and zips.

·     Trousers or skirts with elastic waists will be easier to take on and off.

·     Ladies may find a bra uncomfortable and may prefer to wear a strapless or front fastening bra.

·     Consider slip-on, easy fitting shoes.

 

By 6 weeks after your operation you should be able to dress “normally” again.

 

Washing:

 

Ø   If you are in a sling or abduction sling you will probably need help with washing in the first few weeks.

Ø   You may need assistance to wash the un-operated arm, as you will not be able to use the operation arm.

Ø   Use a cubicle or over bath shower, or wash leaning over the sink.

Ø   Keep the surgical wounds dry and protected when washing.

Ø   Waterproof dressings may be provided.

  

Washing with a polysling:

  • Take the sling off, keeping your arm by your side and your hand against your stomach.
  • Gently lean forward, keep the operation arm relaxed until the arm falls away from your side.
  • This will allow you to wash, dry and use deodorant under the arm.
  • Do not assist with the operation arm, just let it hang loose.
  • Place your arm back in the sling before stand upright.

 

Washing with an abduction sling:

 

  • Do not remove the abduction sling or wedge to wash.
  • Place a small towel under the arm on top of the wedge.
  • Use a cloth to wash and rinse under the arm.
  • Dry and use deodorant.
  • Remove the towel.

 

Feeding:

 

  • You will need to feed yourself with your un-operated hand only for 6 weeks.

 

Transferring:

 

  • This means getting in and out of your chair, bed and bath and getting on and off the toilet.
  • In the first 6 weeks you must only push up from the chair, bed etc. using your un-operated arm.
  • After 6 weeks you may return to using both arms as pain allows.

 

Sleeping:

 

  • For the first 6 weeks your sling should be kept on in bed.
  • You may find it more comfortable to sleep on your back with a pillow under the operation arm for support.
  • Or sleep in a semi-sitting position supported by pillows.
  • Or on your side supported by pillows.

  

  • Wearing the abduction sling it may be more comfortable and easier to sleep in a semi-sitting position supported by pillows
  • Or on your side supported by pillows.

 

 Kitchen activities:

 

  • This includes making meals, snacks and drinks.
  • For the first 6 weeks you must use your un-operated arm for all kitchen activities.
  • After 6 weeks you may return to using both arms and start to lift lighter items at this time.
  • AVOID LIFTING ANYTHING HEAVY FOR 3 MONTHS.

 

  • KITCHEN ADVICE
    1. Consider filling the kettle using a small jug and only fill it for the required amount.
    2. Heat small amounts of water in the microwave.
    3. Before coming into hospital you may wish to prepare food for the freezer.
    4. Buy easily prepared meals to eat after your operation.
    5. Serve directly from the pan using a spoon to avoid lifting heavy pots.
    6. Avoid putting heavy dishes into the oven which will require two hands to remove when they are hot.

 

Housework:

 

  • You can start light housework, using the operation arm, after 6 weeks.
  • More strenuous housework that involves heavy lifting should be avoided for 3 months after your operation.

 

Walking or Stairs:
 
  • If you use a stick or crutch to walk it, must be used in the un-operated hand for 6 weeks following the operation.
  • If you walk with a frame or wheeled walker please discuss this with the consultant or the pre-assessment nurse before your operation.
  • Hold the banister with your un-operated hand, when climbing or descending stairs, for the first 6 weeks. You may require a second banister.
Returning to Driving, Work and Sports:
 
This will depend on your job, sport and the operation you have gone through. Therefore you must discuss this with your consultant or therapist.
 
Here are some guidelines for:
 
 
Arthroscopic subacromial decompression, AC joint excision, Excision of calcific deposits, Capsular release, Manipulation of shoulder
 
Driving: You may begin driving between one to three weeks after your operation or when you feel comfortable.
 
Returning to work:
-   As soon as you feel able for a sedentary job, usually after one week.
-   3 - 6 weeks for lighter manual work.
-   6 - 12 weeks for heavier manual work.
 
Please discuss your specific job and return to work with your consultant before and after your surgery.
 
Sports:
 
Swimming
Breast stroke
Freestyle
4 weeks
6 weeks
Golf
 
6 -12 weeks
Contact sport
Rugby, Football,
Martial arts, Horse riding
Racquet sports,
Rock climbing
6 – 18 weeks
 
Here are some guidelines for:
 
 
Shoulder replacement, Shoulder stabilisation, Rotator cuff repair,
Weaver-Dunn
Driving: You may begin driving a minimum of six to eight weeks after your operation.
 
Returning to work:
-   3 weeks for a sedentary job, such as office work.
-  12 weeks for lighter manual work.
-   18 - 24 weeks for heavier manual work.
 
Please discuss your specific job and return to work with your consultant before and after your surgery.
 
Sports:
 
Swimming
Breast stroke
Freestyle
8 - 12 weeks
4 months
 Golf
 
4 months
Contact sport
Rugby, Football,
Martial arts, Horse riding
Racquet sports,
Rock climbing
6 months
 
 Advice from other patient’s experience:
 
Washing and grooming
 
  • Wash your hair over the sink using un-operated arm.
 
  • Cleaning your body or hands - use baby wipes
 
  • Use a non slip mat in the bottom of the shower or bath.
 
  • Following a shower put on a towelling dressing gown to help dry your good arm
 
  • Use a battery operated toothbrush to brush your teeth.
 
Draft 3
Mr Sharma Orthopaedic Consultant,  Janette McDonald Physiotherapist 01/10/10