Patient/caregiver was instructed on measures to promote safety and reduce the workload during immediate post-surgical phase as follows:
- Inappropriate height of work desk and improper placement of computer monitor can lead to poor posture, undue stress in the surgical shoulder, and compromise the outcome of the surgery. Too low a work desk can result in rounded shoulders and too high a work desk can result in improperly supported elbow and shoulder joints. Choosing an appropriate work desk and rearranging the work environment contribute towards reducing stress on the surgical shoulder. Make sure your work desk is level with your elbows, with you sitting. If your workstation is too low or too high for your work chair, you can either change your chair to match up with the height of your station or change the station to match up with the height of your chair. Have your computer monitor at an arm distance from your chair and make sure the top of the screen is just below your eye level.
- Proper posture at the work desk is very essential to reduce the strain on the surgical shoulder. Individuals spending long hours at work desk must work towards assuming a safer posture. Try sitting straight with lower back supported and both feet rested firm & uniform on the ground. Make sure your shoulders are relaxed, elbows & forearm rested and supported on the work desk, and wrists & hands in line with the forearm.
- Prolonged sitting at the work desk can build strain in the surgical shoulder. Avoid performing any activities involving prolonged use of the affected upper extremity. Plan to take frequent breaks, a 5 minute break every hour, to help reduce strain on the affected shoulder. Changing your mouse to the other side of desk to be operated by the nonsurgical hand also contributes to lowering stress on the surgical shoulder.
- Driving can involve vibration and sudden jerky movements in the surgical shoulder due to the inherent hand movements, road conditions and challenges posed during the task. Hand movements beyond the rehab recommendations, severe vibrations, and jerky movements can result in dislodgement of the prosthetic, necessitating a repeat surgery. So, individuals undergoing shoulder replacement surgery must avoid driving until your surgeon clears you for the task.
