SHOULDER SURGERY

Please follow these simple instructions:

ICE: The use of ice following surgery can decrease pain and swelling. Apply ice for 20-30 minutes every hour for the first two post-operative days.
SLING/EXERCISE: If your arm is in a sling, you may remove it to shower, and when engaging in your physical therapy. You should start your physical therapy the day after surgery. If you do not have an appointment set up for you pre-operatively, please call the office at 610-861-8080 x5315 to do so.
PAIN CONTROL: You will receive three prescriptions to help control your pain. Follow the written instructions given to you as well as on the bottle. When the prescription pain medication is no longer necessary, you make take Tylenol, two tablets every four hours as needed for pain. Should you need a prescription refill, be sure to call when you are down to 2-3 pills left and call during regular office hours. Narcotic prescriptions will not be refilled during off hours by the on call physician.
DRESSINGS: Your dressings will be changed before discharge. If it is necessary for you to change it at home, a sterile 4x4 gauze pad and tape should be used.
BATHING: Keep your incision dry and cover with an occlusive dressing or saran wrap when washing until your first post-operative visit.
INFECTION: If you develop a fever (temperature of 101 or more), your shoulder becomes red and very swollen, or you have yellow drainage from the wound, call the office.