how to dress after shoulder surgery

3 min read 02-02-2025

Shoulder surgery can be a challenging experience, impacting your mobility and daily routine. Choosing the right clothing can significantly impact your comfort and recovery process. This guide will walk you through practical tips and strategies for dressing after shoulder surgery, ensuring you remain comfortable while your body heals.

Understanding Your Post-Surgery Limitations

Before diving into clothing choices, understanding your physical limitations post-surgery is crucial. Your range of motion will likely be restricted, and you may experience pain and discomfort. The type of surgery and your individual recovery progress will influence these limitations. Always consult your surgeon or physical therapist for personalized advice.

Choosing the Right Clothes: Key Considerations

Ease of Dressing:

Front-opening garments: Opt for shirts, blouses, and jackets that open in the front. Avoid anything that requires you to pull over your head, as this will strain your shoulder. Button-down shirts, cardigans, and zip-up sweaters are excellent choices.
Loose and comfortable fabrics: Choose breathable, soft fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that might restrict movement or rub against your incision. Loose clothing allows for proper air circulation, preventing irritation and promoting healing.
Adaptive clothing: Consider specialized adaptive clothing designed for individuals with limited mobility. These garments often feature modified closures, such as large buttons or Velcro straps. They can make dressing significantly easier and less painful.

Protecting Your Incision:

Loose-fitting sleeves: Choose shirts and tops with wide, loose sleeves. Avoid anything that rubs directly on your incision. Sleeveless tops or tank tops may be comfortable once your incision has healed sufficiently.
Fabric choice: Consider fabrics that are gentle on the skin and unlikely to cause irritation. Avoid coarse or scratchy materials that could irritate your incision.
Protective layers: In the early stages of recovery, consider wearing a light, loose-fitting garment over your incision to provide an additional layer of protection.

Managing Swelling and Pain:

Comfortable undergarments: Choose soft, breathable undergarments that won't put pressure on your shoulder. Avoid bras or undergarments with tight straps or underwires. Consider a supportive post-surgical bra if recommended by your doctor.
Layering: Layering your clothing allows you to adjust to changes in temperature and comfort levels. You can add or remove layers as needed throughout the day.
Easy access: Select clothing with pockets that are easily accessible, making it easier to reach items without straining your shoulder.

Specific Clothing Recommendations

Button-down shirts: Versatile and easy to put on and take off.
Open-front cardigans: Comfortable, providing warmth while maintaining ease of movement.
Zip-up sweaters: Similar to cardigans, but offer a slightly more secure closure.
Loose-fitting pants: Comfortable and provide ample room for movement. Elastic waistbands are ideal.
Pajamas: Choose button-down pajamas or loose-fitting nightgowns for comfortable sleep.

What to Avoid

Tight-fitting clothing: Restricts movement and can cause discomfort or irritation.
Clothing that requires overhead reaching: Pulling clothes over your head can strain your shoulder.
Clothes with tight sleeves or necklines: Can irritate the incision or cause discomfort.
Heavy clothing: Can weigh down your injured shoulder.
Garments with intricate closures: Can be difficult to manage with limited mobility.

Dressing Techniques

Here are some helpful tips for dressing after shoulder surgery:

Sit down: Sit on a comfortable chair or stool when dressing or undressing to minimize strain.
Use assistive devices: A dressing stick or button hook can make dressing significantly easier.
Ask for help: Don't hesitate to ask a friend, family member, or caregiver for assistance.
Take breaks: If you start to feel fatigued or experience pain, take breaks to avoid overexertion.
Be patient: Dressing after shoulder surgery may take more time and effort than usual.

Conclusion

Choosing the right clothing after shoulder surgery is essential for both comfort and successful recovery. Prioritize ease of dressing, protection of your incision, and management of pain and swelling. By following these guidelines and utilizing appropriate dressing techniques, you can improve your overall comfort and well-being throughout your healing journey. Remember, always consult your doctor or physical therapist for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.