Using a Shoulder Sling and Pillow Following Shoulder Surgery

I'm reviewing how to use a postoperative shoulder abduction pillow and sling (0:55). I'll also give you tips on how to dress and shower after your shoulder surgery (4:14). This sling is used for patients having rotator cuff repairs, superior capsular reconstructions, as well as surgery on the labrum of their shoulder.

Dr. Adam Derhake
Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Surgeon
Quincy Medical Group, Quincy IL

[stephensamber]

This information was so difficult to find! When you’re waking up from anesthesia you don’t remember the instructions about the proper positioning of the arm within the sling. Thank you for THIS! So thorough.

[kevinsmith]

The nurse didn’t know what she was doing on the sling Thanks so very much.

[cam.mie.]

i’m getting shoulder surgery soon and wanted to know more about the sling and post operation living. this was very helpful!!

[Marx]

Just had surgery today they gave me the same exact sling. I got home. It must’ve shifted. This video was very helpful and placing it in the right area.

[sherryfuzesy]

Thanks for sharing some medical instructions for shoulder replacement surgery, so helpful.

[dougwatches]

Thank you for the thorough explanation of what to expect using an abduction sling and pillow, well-spoken and answers a number of concerns/questions.

[bev.disgrace]

Great video - answered all of my questions with the perfect amount of detail. Thank you!!

[geraldduncan]

I had my left rotator repaired 3yrs ago, now pending an upcoming MRI on my right shoulder area, I may again need some surgery followed by several weeks of PT.
This video, was extremely helpful! Thanks for posting it.

[ColleenSullivan-pxlv]

Excellent overview, DR. I’m saving the video for a reminder. Thank you.

[cameronwadle]

Informative, concise, and clear. Great video, thanks!

[Connie-qnoq]

Had surgery on 10/21. My RC surgery took 5.5 hours (was initially thought that would take 2.5) The hospital sent me home with a sling that had no padding at the forearm and no waist belt. Kind of feel like I’m missing out on the better sling and may alter my recovery. Your thoughts?

[junelagoon]

Thank you so much for clear instruction & illustration, with the physiological basis explained,

[PortiaKhulu]

Thank you for the explanation. Very informative

[SusanneStClair]

The video doesn't show how to remove the brace and put it back on. What's the best way to do those those things?

[jimwalls]

Lots of info. Sounds like the sling is left on even when going to bed. Is this correct?

[TheTotalAthleteA]

Hi Dr. Derhake....great video series, very informative! I had a lower trap, tendon transfer 9/23 with no active function after 4 months. Xray and MRI show humeral elevation with some cuff issues as well. Jan 30 of 24 I had a SCR and at 2 weeks post op, Xray still shows a fair amount of humeral elevation. Any idea why? Any chance over time it will drop into position? If this doesn't work, I'm forced to do a reverse shoulder replacement at age 57. I'm a professional strength and conditioning coach so you can imagine my activity level. Any insight would be very helpful. Thank you.

[Luis-ehdp]

Hi, how soon after surgery can I move my elbow

[PortiaKhulu]

For how many weeks do I have to wear the abduction sling

[joesfightclips]

what about frozen shoulder if it sits in a certain position too long? and when can prp be done post op?

[evaisaiahhall]

Well I had rotator, labrum, and slap repair in July and got the most ridiculous sling! No pillow, no strap to the waist, no ball, and no instructions!! Literally have to have repeat surgery again 😭! Going to have to buy a better sling.