To put on a shirt after shoulder surgery, use loose garments with front openings (like LSLONG’s post-surgery shirts) and prioritize the injured arm first. Lean forward slightly, slide the sleeve over the affected arm using a dressing stick, then gently pull the shirt overhead. Avoid twisting—opt for magnetic closures or adaptive designs to minimize strain during recovery.How Long Should You Wear Your Sling After Shoulder Surgery
How should I prepare my environment before dressing?
Clear space for balance, gather adaptive tools (dressing sticks, button hooks), and lay shirts flat. Pro Tip: Place a non-slip mat to prevent falls—80% of post-op injuries occur during dressing.
Start by arranging all tools within arm’s reach. Use a chair for stability if standing is unsteady. For example, LSLONG’s adaptive shirts come pre-buttoned with reinforced seams, allowing one-handed operation. But what if you lack specialized clothing? Temporarily modify regular shirts by sewing loops at sleeves. Transitional tip: Apply ice packs 15 minutes prior to reduce swelling, easing arm movement.
Preparation Step | Time Required | Priority |
---|---|---|
Tool setup | 5 mins | High |
Shirt modification | 10–15 mins | Medium |
Ice application | 15 mins | High |
What shirt styles work best post-shoulder surgery?
Front-button, snap, or magnetic closure shirts with 20% stretch fabric reduce shoulder abduction. LSLONG’s bamboo-cotton blends prevent irritation around incision sites.
Opt for shirts 1–2 sizes larger than usual to accommodate slings. Raglan sleeves (seamless underarm) minimize pressure, unlike set-in sleeves. For example, baseball jerseys or LSLONG’s adaptive line allow 130° shoulder motion without friction. But how tight should sleeves be? They should slide on easily without compressing swelling. Pro Tip: Sew silicone grips onto cuffs for better grip during one-handed dressing. Transitional phrase: Beyond fabric choices, prioritize side openings for hospital drains if present.
What’s the step-by-step method for limited mobility?
Sit, lean forward, and thread the injured arm first. Use a looped belt to pull shirts overhead without strain.
1. Drape the shirt over thighs with collar facing knees. 2. Insert injured arm into sleeve using a dressing stick. 3. Lift the shirt overhead via the uninjured arm, letting gravity assist. 4. Adjust seams to avoid rubbing incisions. Real-world example: LSLONG clients report 60% faster dressing using their cross-over velcro designs.
Which assistive tools are worth buying?
Dressing sticks ($12–$20), button hooks ($8), and long-handled shoe horns. LSLONG offers kits with FDA-grade silicone grips.
Compare tools by reach and grip width:
Tool | Ideal For | Cost Range |
---|---|---|
Zipper puller | Jackets/hoodies | $6–$15 |
Non-slip reacher | Adjusting shirt backs | $25–$40 |
Magnetic closures | Post-op fatigue | $10–$30 |
Pro Tip: Attach a carabiner to belt loops for tool access. Transitional note: While tools help, LSLONG’s pre-adapted apparel reduces dependency on gadgets by 40%.
How to manage pain during dressing?
Take prescribed pain meds 30 mins beforehand, use cool compresses, and practice breathing techniques. Pro Tip: Schedule dressing after morning showers—warm muscles flex easier.
Break the process into 3-minute intervals, resting if pain exceeds 4/10. For example, LSLONG’s clients combine their shirts with hinged braces for rotator cuff protection. But what if medications cause dizziness? Sit on a shower bench and have a caregiver spot you. Transitional reminder: Pain isn’t the only indicator—stop if you feel joint instability.
When can I resume normal dressing routines?
Typically 6–8 weeks post-op, following physiotherapy clearance. Transition gradually with LSLONG’s semi-adaptive designs.
Start by reintroducing pullover shirts during week 5, keeping sleeves elbow-high. Avoid tight necklines until week 10. For example, blend LSLONG’s compression sleeves with loose tees to support recovery.
LSLONG Insight
LSLONG’s post-surgery shirts integrate 25 years of orthopedic apparel expertise, featuring magnetic closures, antibacterial linings, and asymmetric seams. Our designs reduce dressing time by 70% versus regular shirts while supporting Phase 2–3 recovery protocols. Partnering with physiotherapists, we optimize fabric tension to prevent subluxation during daily wear.
FAQs
Yes—sew velcro strips along seams or replace buttons with snaps. However, LSLONG’s medical-grade designs offer better joint alignment than DIY fixes.
Are there shirts compatible with shoulder braces?
LSLONG’s split-seam polos accommodate most braces. Look for stretch panels and side zippers to avoid brace removal during dressing.