Resources
Treatment Options
Surgical and Non-surgical Options
➤ Non-surgical options include:
• Pain and anti-inflammatory medications (including injections).
• Thermo therapy (application of heat or cold for treatment).
• Strengthening and flexibility exercises.
• Massage.
➤ Before Surgery:
• If you and your surgeon decide on surgery, physical therapy before the
surgery may be recommended to improve your recovery. The procedure is
called a total shoulder arthroplasty.
➤ After Surgery:
• Your physical therapist will advise you:
» In the use of a sling early after your surgery, and progression to resume
daily activities.
» To perform progressive exercises to strengthen muscles and improve
range of motion and functional arm use.
➤ The use of a sling with the shoulder in a neutral position can help
to reduce pain after you have had a TSA.
➤ Your surgeon may delay physical therapy up to 4 weeks after the
TSA to allow for healing. This has no negative effect.
➤ The American Physical Therapy Association
• Apta.org/patient-care
➤ Arthritis Foundation
• Arthritis.org
➤ American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
• OrthoInfo.aaos.org
➤ American College of Rheumatology
• Rheumatology.org
