Labrum Surgery Recovery – What to Expect

surgery closeup view

While labrum surgery is typically a highly successful method of repairing a shoulder problem, patients obviously want to know how long it will take to recover. There are several different factors that will determine how long it will take, but here is some general information on what to expect.

Factors That Affect Recovery Time

The location and severity of the tear, as well as the quality of repair, will go a long way toward determining the length of your recovery from labrum surgery. In most instances, it takes anywhere from four to six weeks for the labrum to re-attach to the bone, and then up to another four to six weeks for your shoulder to gradually strengthen. During this time, you will need to take great care and follow your doctor’s instructions so that you do not risk re-injury.

If you are an active person, it will probably be hard to predict how long it will take you to get back to playing sports or working out. There are a lot of variables regarding the type of procedure that is performed, and the type of activity in which you participate. In most instances, however, patients are able to regain full function in their shoulder after labrum surgery and will be able to get back to their previous level of activity with little to no restrictions.

Managing Expectations

It is very important that you keep your expectations manageable when recovering from labrum surgery. Different people recover at different speeds; if you expect too much, you may become frustrated. Your doctor will be able to give you a very good idea of how long it will take to get back to normal. The better you are at following your surgeon’s instructions and keeping up with your physical therapy program, the better the chances you will be satisfied with the pace of your recovery.

If you have shoulder pain, talk to a Southlake orthopedic surgeon with Advanced Spine & Orthopedics. Contact us online or call us at 817-310-8783 to schedule an appointment.