Sports Injury Info

Limitation of lifting any weight after Subacromial Decompression surgery?

by Sally
(Santa Barbara)

How long after an arthroscopic subacromial decompression surgery is the patient limited with lifting weight with the surgical arm.

I need to have the surgery done, but we are planning a trip in September and I want to know how impaired I will be. Thank you.

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Limitation of lifting any weight after Subacromial Decompression surgery?

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Jun 05, 2008
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Usually not too long...
by: Bart - SII

Every surgeon has a little different protocol for the restrictions after a subacromial decompression surgery. If that is all that is done, and there is no rotator cuff repair or other type of repair, there usually is very little along the line of restrictions.

Most of my patients are in a sling for comfort for the first week, and then are able to use the arm as much as tolerated as they progress through their rehabilitation.

With that said, even though there are not restrictions, you will be limited as to how much you can use the arm after surgery. You will have to work to get your range of motion and strength back, but this usually comes fairly quickly depending on how you respond to the procedure.

Typical recovery time for a subacromial decompression can usually be between 4-8 weeks for a return to normal daily activities, including lifting. It may take a bit longer to be able to lift very heavy objects...so surgery now should have you doing well by your trip in September.

I would recommend discussing all of your concerns with your physician and get a timeline for your recovery so you have a good idea of what to expect regarding their specific restrictions.

Hope this helps - comment back with other questions.

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