One of the first practical problems
If you have to wear a sling to protect your shoulder after surgery, showering is usually the first thing that turns out to be harder than expected. The video below works through it.
Before you get in
A little preparation makes the whole thing easier. Set out your towel, soap and clothes within easy reach of your good arm first, so you are not searching for them afterwards. A non-slip mat is worth using, since balance is harder when one arm is held against the body. Many people find a shower stool or chair makes the first couple of weeks considerably less tiring.
Keeping the wound dry, or not
Whether your dressings can get wet depends on which dressings you have. Many modern dressings are waterproof and are designed to be showered over; others are not. This is worth confirming before your first shower rather than afterwards. We have covered dressings separately in our posts on how to take your dressings off and your shoulder replacement and your dressings.
During the shower
In general the operated arm stays by your side and does the minimum. Wash with the other hand, let the water do most of the work, and avoid reaching up, behind your back or across your body with the operated arm. Under the arm can be washed by letting the elbow hang just slightly away from the body, without lifting or rotating the shoulder. A long-handled sponge and a soap on a rope are both genuinely useful for the few weeks involved.
Afterwards
Dry the area around the shoulder and under the arm properly, as skin that stays damp becomes sore quickly. Pat the dressing rather than rubbing it. If the sling itself has become wet, many can be laundered, and having a spare means you are never waiting for one to dry.
Check your own instructions
Whether and when you may remove the sling to shower depends on your particular operation. Follow the instructions you were given on discharge in preference to any general advice.
With thanks
With thanks to Lucy Angelini of Extend Therapy.
Related information
See our rehabilitation page, the surgery FAQs, and our post on how to put your sling on.