barbell after shoulder surgery

[jobabes]

Hello Cathe,

I had shoulder surgery in May and have almost completely recovered. My surgeon has cleared me to resume full activity. I told him I was having trouble holding the barbell on my shoulders and he was not surprised but not worried either. Until this feels comfortable, what form suggestions do you have for using dumbells as a replacement? The other day when you had forty pounds on your barbell I used two twenty pound weights and kept them along my thighs. I just want to make sure I am both safe and effective during this transition period.

Joanna

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Joanna! I'm sorry to hear of your shoulder injury but glad you are on the mend.

As far as using dumbbells in place of a barbell, holding them at your sides and below shoulder height is probably the safest and most comfortable position for you now until your range of motion is restored to the shoulder area.

I think you will benefit greatly from longer warm ups before all activities followed by gradual stretching of the shoulder area. Then move into your exercises cautiously and one step behind me so that you know whats coming and can prepare accordingly. After your workout do nice thorough and deeper shoulder stretches to restore flexibility to the joint. You will most likely be sore just from stretching until you reach your normal range of motion prior to surgery. Of course its always best to ice down when you are finished unless your doc has specifically told you not to.

Take care and good luck!

 

[jobabes]

Hey Cathe,

I thought I posted a thank you, but guess not! Anyway, thank you for your input and information. It is much appreciated. I feel better every day.