Lower leg pain is a common challenge for athletes, and anyone engaged in high-impact physical activity. While "shin splints" often come to mind as the likely culprit, not all types of shin pain are the same. Another condition—compartment syndrome—shares similar symptoms but requires significantly different treatment.
Understanding the differences between these two conditions is important for effective diagnosis and recovery. Learn the key distinctions between shin splints and compartment syndrome, their causes, and the steps you can take to prevent or treat them.
Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). This condition is one of the most common running-related injuries, endurance sport injuries, high-impact sports typically caused by repetitive impact stress on the lower legs.
Shin splints typically present as a dull, aching pain that runs along the inside of the shinbone (tibia). This discomfort is often accompanied by tenderness or swelling in the lower leg, making the area sensitive to touch. The pain tends to intensify during physical activity, especially high-impact exercises like running or jumping. However, it usually eases or completely subsides with adequate rest, offering temporary relief until the next bout of activity.
Shin splints occur due to overloading the muscles, tendons, and bones of the lower leg. Contributing factors include:
Fortunately, shin splints are often treatable with non-invasive methods:
If left untreated, shin splints can lead to more severe conditions, such as stress fractures.
Compartment syndrome is a more complex condition often hard to diangisis. It occurs when pressure within a muscle compartment builds up, restricting blood flow and potentially damaging nerves and muscles. Chronic forms of this syndrome, known as chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS), are often exercise-induced and affect athletes engaged in repetitive, high-impact activities like running or cycling.
The condition occurs when the fascia, a non-stretchable tissue surrounding the muscles, cannot accommodate the increased muscle volume during exercise. This results in high pressure within the compartment, restricting oxygen and blood flow. Risk factors include participating in repetitive high-impact sports, overtraining or following intense exercise regimens, and being under 30 years old.
Compartment syndrome often requires a different approach. Non-surgical treatments include resting and modifying activities to focus on low-impact exercises, alongside physical therapy aimed at improving flexibility and strength. Orthotics or shoe modifications can also help correct gait issues. However, if symptoms persist, surgical intervention such as a fasciotomy may be necessary. This procedure involves releasing the fascia to reduce pressure within the muscle compartments. Consulting a physician is crucial to determine whether surgery is the appropriate course of action.
To better understand and differentiate between two commonly encountered lower leg conditions, it is important to explore the key differences between shin splints and compartment syndrome. By recognizing the distinct characteristics of each condition, individuals can seek appropriate medical attention and make informed decisions regarding their treatment and recovery.
To ensure the well-being of your legs during exercise, it is important to take preventive measures for both shin splints and compartment syndrome. Here are some effective strategies to help you avoid these conditions and maintain optimal leg health.
While shin splints and compartment syndrome are common causes of leg pain, other conditions such as stress fractures or tendonitis may present similar symptoms. Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment.
Medical professionals, such as the experts at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, use specialized tests, including compartment pressure measurements and imaging (MRI), to identify the underlying issue.
If you're experiencing persistent leg pain, don’t delay in seeking a professional opinion. Untreated conditions can worsen over time, putting unnecessary strain on your body and your fitness goals. The team at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and Tipton, IN, are here to provide an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plan to get you back on your feet. Request an appointment today to find lasting relief and regain confidence in your physical performance..
Tendon pain can make the simplest activities—like running, walking, or even lifting objects—feel like an uphill battle. When tendon pain strikes, traditional treatments don’t always resolve issues.
Enter shockwave therapy, a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment designed to promote healing and reduce pain for tendon injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions. But what exactly is shockwave therapy, how does it work, and could it be the solution for you? Learning about this innovative treatment and its potential to get you back to the activities you love is the first step towards long-lasting recovery.
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. These sound waves are directed into the injured area, increasing blood flow, promoting healing, and alleviating pain.
We use this in conjunction of physical therapy and it’s particularly effective for injuries that have not responded to more conventional treatments, such as oral pain medication. It is widely used to treat chronic conditions like tendinopathy.
The process is simple yet effective. During a shockwave therapy session:
These waves trigger several healing mechanisms:
The sessions are quick, with each procedure taking about 5–10 minutes. To achieve the best results, patients typically undergo 3–5 sessions spaced over several weeks.
Shockwave therapy is a versatile treatment with applications across various injuries and conditions. Common uses include:
It’s also gaining popularity among athletes seeking to accelerate recovery and optimize performance while avoiding invasive procedures.
At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, patients have access to this advanced treatment to safely address long-standing injuries.
One of the standout benefits of shockwave therapy is its long-term efficacy. While some patients may notice improvement after the first session, significant results typically appear after completing the full course of treatments. Healing continues for weeks following the final session as the body attempts to repairs itself.
While the results vary by individual, many patients report lasting relief from pain and improved mobility, making shockwave therapy a preferred option for managing chronic conditions.
A frequently asked question is whether it’s safe to resume physical activity post-treatment. The answer depends on your condition and injury severity.
By gradually incorporating exercise, you’ll help promote healing and avoid aggravating the treated tendon or muscle tissue.
Shockwave therapy is packed with advantages that make it a compelling alternative to more invasive treatments:
If you’re based near Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, or Tipton, IN, the team at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics is specially trained in administering this advanced treatment.
Shockwave therapy is great for chronic, persistent injuries that haven’t responded to other treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, or medication. However, it’s not the right option for everyone. There are certain cases where shockwave therapy may not be recommended. Your healthcare provider might suggest alternative treatments if you:
To determine whether shockwave therapy is a suitable option for you, a consultation with a physician at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics is essential. During this visit, experts will assess your medical history, current condition, and treatment goals to create a personalized care plan that best supports your recovery and overall health.
If you’re struggling with ongoing tendon pain that’s holding you back, shockwave therapy could be the game-changing solution you’ve been searching for. With its blend of innovation, effectiveness, and safety, it offers renewed hope for anyone tired of living with chronic pain.
Experience the difference that shockwave therapy can make. Call (317) 817-1200 to schedule a consultation with Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics today at one of our convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville or Tipton, IN. Our team of experts will craft a personalized plan to get you back to doing what you love, pain-free.
Carmel, IN – Angie Stevenson has been named Chief Executive Officer of Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. Stevenson joins Forté having served twenty-two years in healthcare management, most recently as CEO of Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center.
“Following in Marty Rosenberg's footsteps, leading Forté means delivering a patient focused experience, driving innovation and fostering a strong team culture,” said Stevenson. “I’m eager to continue to build on the company’s strengths, explore new markets and enhance our impact to patients and the communities we serve. It’s all about collaboration and vision—working together to take Forté to the next level.”
“Angie was selected due to her decades of experience in managing successful private practice orthopedic surgery groups in central Indiana. Marty Rosenberg has created an excellent and solid foundation for Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. I expect Angie and her years of experience to allow us to continue to grow and foster our relationships he built,” said Jonathan Smerek, president of Forté.” Angie will be instrumental in growing our practice as we continue to strive to be the best location to get care and for us as physicians, providers and therapists, to be the best practice to provide care.”
As CEO, Stevenson has set a series of goals to position Forté not only as a leader in orthopedics but also ensure long-term growth and resilience. She will continue to lead Forté’s focus on patient engagement by enhancing patient experience through the highest quality, personalized care. Stevenson will look to market expansion by entering new markets to diversify Forté’s reach and patient base. Innovation will continue to be at the forefront by adopting emerging technologies and adapting to evolving patient needs. Stevenson strives for employee development by investing in the team’s growth and creating an inclusive culture to attract and retain top talent.
When discussing the industry, Stevenson said ‘leading in this competitive market is both challenging and exhilarating. It requires everyone to stay agile and responsive to trends while maintaining a clear vision. Understanding patient needs and differentiating the brand will continue to be crucial. It’s all about being proactive, adapting quickly and always looking for ways to better serve our patients.’
To learn more about Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, its services, and its accomplished team of physicians and staff, visit forteortho.com.
INDIANAPOLIS – Foot health is often a major issue for people experiencing extreme poverty and homelessness here in Indiana and around the world. The Forté Orthopedic Research Institute welcomes news media to the Hearts 2 Soles event, presented in partnership with the Indianapolis Colts and Wheeler Mission, to raise awareness about the importance of proper foot health as an essential part of everyday life.
WHO: Forté Orthopedic Research Institute, in partnership with the Indianapolis Colts and Wheeler Mission
WHAT: Hearts 2 Soles is an event providing free foot exams, shoes and socks to those in need in our community. In addition to the generous support provided by the Indianapolis Colts and Wheeler Mission, Hearts 2 Soles is made possible by donations of 300 pairs of shoes provided by Red Wing Shoes and Changing Footprints, 300 pairs of socks supplied by JD Sports and 300 toiletry kits prepared by Meijer.
WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 3
• 5:30 p.m. – Arrival
• 5:35 p.m. – Interview opportunities with Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics’ fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists, Drs. David Porter, Jonathan Smerek and Andrew Wohler, as well as Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs
• 6:15 p.m. – B-roll opportunities available during the foot clinic
Please Note: We kindly ask media to refrain from showing the faces of those taking part in the Hearts 2 Soles event. Subjects should be blurred or filmed in a way as to protect identity.
WHERE: Wheeler Mission, Shelter for Men
520 E. Market St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
If you’re struggling to find joint pain relief, you might be considering joint injections as your next step. Cortisone injections are a common procedure with the goal of reducing pain in damaged joints. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and other orthobiologic injections are gaining popularity in sports medicine and orthopedics. Learn the differences between these two non-operative treatment options and how to determine what’s best for you.
Traditionally a more common and well-known approach, cortisone injections are used by orthopedic specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics to treat a wide variety of conditions. Derived from a type of steroid called corticosteroids that became popular because of their strong anti-inflammatory properties and instant pain relief, cortisone injections are most commonly administered to reduce joint inflammation and pain and get people back to their everyday activities.
Considered a short-term solution, cortisone injections act as more of a band-aid to the underlying issue and require close monitoring, as frequent usage can cause tissue damage and unwanted side effects. While the injection reduces pain, it typically doesn’t cure the underlying problem causing the inflammation.
Cortisone shots effectively treat conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis, among others. These injections target inflammation to relieve acute injuries or chronic conditions causing joint pain. However, since they are not intended for frequent use, your doctor will guide you on how often you can have a cortisone injection to minimize risks. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we administer cortisone judiciously and as part of a broader interventional pain management plan.
You may notice initial soreness or swelling at the injection site, which typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Many patients experience noticeable pain relief within a few days, but for some, it takes up to a week to feel the full effects. Rest the treated area and avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours to allow the medication to work effectively. Your doctor may recommend certain follow-up care or physical therapy to maximize the injection’s benefits.
Relief from a cortisone shot typically lasts a few weeks to several months, depending on the condition and the individual’s response. Many patients enjoy significant pain reduction and improved mobility during this period, allowing them to participate in physical therapy or other treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of their pain.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides cortisone injections, with experienced medical providers administering treatment based on your unique situation. Our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and Tipton, IN, make it easy to access the care you need.
PRP injections are a form of regenerative medicine that uses the healing properties in your blood to treat joint and muscle pain. First, a doctor draws your blood and places it in a machine to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. Then, the PRP is injected back into the affected area to reduce pain and promote healing.
PRP injections are particularly beneficial for treating chronic tendon injuries, ligament sprains, and joint degeneration caused by osteoarthritis, making them a direct replacement for cortisone shots. Because this method uses your own blood, it helps you naturally recover from sports injuries or overuse syndromes without relying on medications or invasive procedures.
After a PRP injection, you may experience some soreness or mild swelling in the treated area, which is a normal part of the healing process. Unlike cortisone injections, which aim to suppress inflammation, PRP encourages a controlled inflammatory response to stimulate tissue repair. Avoid strenuous activities for a few days and follow up with your doctor to track your progress.
Patients often report noticeable improvements in pain and function within a few weeks of receiving a PRP injection, with results continuing to improve over several months. Unlike cortisone, which provides immediate but temporary relief, PRP encourages long-term healing and regeneration. Depending on the severity and nature of your condition, the benefits of a PRP injection can last up to a year or more.
When comparing PRP injections to cortisone injections, consider that both treatments have their place in interventional pain management. Cortisone is best for quick pain relief and reducing inflammation, making it ideal for acute injuries or flare-ups of chronic conditions. On the other hand, PRP focuses on long-term healing by promoting tissue regeneration. Cortisone provides relief for a few months, but PRP offers more sustained results because it addresses the underlying causes of pain.
Even when understanding these differences in mechanisms and outcomes, it can be difficult to choose the best option for you. The specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics can guide you through the risks, benefits and alternative options to help you get back to living the life you want.
For the past 40+ years, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics has perfected our patient-centered approach. Unlike many larger institutions, we’ll never treat you like just another number. Instead, we’ll work closely with you to formulate a clear action plan before you leave the office. Our comprehensive facilities offer physician consultations, diagnostic imaging and treatment all under one roof.
Our very own Dr. Matthew Negaard specializes in ultrasound-guided injections, PRP treatments, orthobiologics and sports medicine. Whether you’re considering cortisone, PRP, or other treatments, we’ll help you overcome obstacles to achieve the best possible outcomes. Contact us today to request a consultation at one of our offices in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville or Tipton, IN.
Orthobiologic treatments have not been authorized by the FDA and are considered experimental by the FDA.
In the mid-90s, a group of more than 27,000 Swedish patients who had knee replacement surgery received a postcard in the mail asking one question: Are you satisfied with the outcome?
When an overwhelming 83% of respondents said “yes,” researchers spent the next two decades focused on the remaining 17%.
“What they found is that these patients say something just feels different,” says Dr. Joseph Maratt, knee replacement surgeon at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. “Because of that, there is greater awareness that every knee is slightly different, and one of the best ways to change the outcome for that 17% is to personalize knee replacement based on each person’s anatomy.”
Computer-assisted knee replacement, also known as robotic knee surgery, utilizes advanced technology to enhance the precision and personalization of knee replacement procedures. Integrating computer systems and robotic arms allows surgeons to plan and execute surgeries with greater accuracy for improved patient outcomes.
At Forté, patients receive computer-assisted knee replacements, which are more personalized than traditional knee replacement surgeries.
The first step is patient-specific surgical planning. A CT scan of your knee is used to create a 3D virtual model of your unique joint. After tracking a series of points around your knee, Dr. Maratt guides it through a range of motion to capture how much it will straighten, how far it can bend, and how tight the ligaments are.
“What we often see is that if we just decided to put implants in based on the 3D model alone, you’d end up with a knee that feels too tight when you’re trying to bend it,” says Dr. Maratt. “Those are the things that, in the past, would make recovery really hard.”
Dr. Maratt uses the model to determine the optimal size, placement, and alignment of your implant. With help from the computer guidance system, he can optimize where bone cuts should be and where implants will go so that ligaments are ideally tensioned.
“Think of it as a simulation tool that we can use to try different combinations of things and pick the one that makes the most sense before we make a single bone cut,” he says.
After adjusting the software, Dr. Maratt uses robotic arm technology to help perform the knee replacement. “It ultimately leads to less pain in the post-op period,” says Dr. Maratt. “We can’t make a knee replacement painless, but it leads to a more normal feeling knee and a faster recovery.”
Robotic techniques provide numerous benefits over traditional knee replacement surgery, including:
With the implant in place, you’ll begin your journey to strengthen your new joint. Rehabilitation begins immediately. Within 24 hours of your surgery, your physical therapist will help you stand and walk with an assistive device like a walker, a cane, or crutches. You’ll receive instructions for safely getting in and out of bed so you can move around relatively independently.
Expect to be discharged from the hospital one to three days after surgery. The timeframe depends on your overall health and how well you’re healing. At this point, you should start feeling stronger and taking lower doses of pain medication.
Your physical therapist will give you several exercises to do at home and visit you a few times in the first two weeks. Perform the exercises as directed to help you heal properly and regain maximum mobility and flexibility in your knee.
Just as every knee is different, so is every patient’s experience. But Dr. Maratt says most patients hit a series of milestones as they participate in physical therapy following computer-assisted knee replacement surgery:
Determining your readiness for knee replacement surgery is a personal decision. While Dr. Maratt says he can help you understand when surgery is appropriate for your situation, only you can decide when the time is right.
“My advice is to take note if you’re unhappy with the choices you’re making, such as choosing to sit in your hotel room rather than going sightseeing with your family,” says Dr. Maratt.
“When you get to that point, don’t become sedentary,” he says. “Get back to the things in life that you like doing.”
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides exceptional care tailored to your needs. With over 40 years of experience, we know the importance of putting patients first. When you visit us with knee pain concerns, expect to meet with one of our doctors and leave with a detailed action plan in hand. Our flexibility and comprehensive services mean you can see a physician, get diagnostic imaging, and start treatment all in one convenient location. If you’re considering computer-assisted knee replacement, contact us to request an appointment at one of our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, or Tipton, IN. We’ll help you take the next step toward a pain-free life.
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Franciscan Health and Cathedral High School in Indianapolis have joined together to form the all-new School Health Partnership.
Starting this summer, Franciscan will be providing a range of health services to Cathedral students, including sports medicine, strength and conditioning and a school nurse.
Dr. Joe Richardville from Franciscan Physician Network Sports Medicine Specialists Indianapolis will serve as the head team physician for Cathedral High School. Dr. Richardville and his team provide a full range of services for individuals of all ages and activity levels.
Board-certified, Dr. Richardville is a graduate of Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. He completed his residency at Franciscan Health Family Medicine and a fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine in sports medicine. Dr. Richardville specializes in sports medicine and family medicine.
In collaboration with Franciscan, Dr. Tyler McCarroll, from Forté Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, will serve as the orthopedic surgeon for Cathedral High School as part of the School Health Partnership.
Board-certified, Dr. McCarroll is a graduate of Indiana University School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Indiana University School of Medicine and a fellowship in orthopedic surgery sports medicine at the prestigious American Sports Medicine Institute at Andrew's Sports Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. McCarroll specializes in sports medicine, hip and knee surgery.
"Cathedral High School has a storied tradition in both academics and athletics and continues to promote excellence in the classroom and on the playing field," said Sharon Annee, administrative director, orthopedic and neuroscience at Franciscan Health Indianapolis. "We are honored to join the team at Cathedral to form the School Health Partnership, which will benefit the entire Cathedral family."
"Our new School Health Partnership with Franciscan Health will provide our students with an atmosphere of caring and support," said Julie Barthel, principal at Cathedral. "Through this new partnership, we believe we can positively impact the health and wellness of our students and families at Cathedral High School."
Cathedral High School is a private Catholic high school in Indianapolis, which serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9 to 12.
Did you know that there are more than 100 different types of arthritis? This common condition can cause pain and swelling of the joints and connective tissues, as well as limiting movement. Arthritis often occurs with age, but arthritis diseases can affect people of any age. There is no cure for arthritis, so the goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and improve mobility. Commonly, arthritis is treated with options that include medication, heat and ice, TENS treatment, injections, braces and sometimes surgery. Increasingly, though, doctors are turning to the field of regenerative medicine, using orthobiologic treatments for arthritis pain relief.
Regenerative medicine is an exciting field of study, in which doctors use biological tissues, sometimes from the patient’s own body, to promote healing and circumvent the need for surgery. Because these therapies are derived from cells taken from the patient, they are generally safe. In addition to helping the body to heal, there is evidence that these treatments alleviate pain and inflammation. Therapies used in regenerative medicine include platelet-rich plasma (PRP), as well as cell-based therapies that involve bone marrow, adipose tissue, or stem cells. The stem cells used in regenerative medicine are typically not fetal cells, but rather cells from placental or amniotic tissue. While there are studies investigating the use of fetal stem cells in orthopedics, they are still in the clinical trial stage. This is the only use that is currently FDA-approved.
Essentially, orthobiologics is another term for regenerative medicine, used when it is applied to orthopedics. Orthopedists use orthobiologic treatment to improve pain and enhance the healing of various orthopedic conditions, like injuries of the tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles, spinal discs, meniscus of the knee, cartilage, and other tissue that is not likely to heal on its own. Conditions like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, and degenerative disc disease have all been treated with orthobiologics.
Traditional treatments for arthritis have included pain medications, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, joint replacement surgery. Orthobiologic treatments for arthritis offer a promising alternative, using an injection for arthritis pain rather than relying on medication or putting the patient through the rigors of surgery. Here’s how specific orthobiologic treatments help address arthritis pain:
In this type of therapy, a small amount of the patient’s own blood is drawn, spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, and then those platelets are injected into the affected joint. The concentrated platelets contain proteins that reduce inflammation and support the repair of damaged tissue. PRP can be especially effective in relieving arthritis pain, as it works with the body’s own healing processes and immune response.
In most cases, because the cells are pulled from your own body and used on the same day, regenerative medicine is generally considered safe. These treatments pose additional risks, according to the FDA. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have before undergoing treatment.
There is a little bit of discomfort associated with having a needle inserted into your joint. If you are having PRP therapy, it only takes about 45-60 minutes, and just involves a blood draw and an injection. Generally, patients can get back to their normal activity level within two or three days of treatment, though they may need to wait a few weeks to exercise. In both types of therapy, the injections are typically administered with imaging assistance, like ultrasound, to ensure the accurate placement of the therapy directly into the joint, where it can provide optimal benefit. By addressing pain and inflammation, orthobiologic injections can significantly enhance joint function and overall mobility for arthritis patients.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics is a leader in orthopedic care, and orthobiologics is just one of the treatments provided. Known today for providing comprehensive, specialized care for patients of all ages, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics started as a small sports medicine clinic for high school athletes, back in 1983. Under the guidance of Dr. Thomas A Brady, the father of Central Indiana sports medicine, this independent, physician-owned orthopedic surgical practice grew to include a variety of sub-specialists before moving to Carmel in 1995. Today, the Carmel clinic is one of four locations, serving patients from across Indiana, with over 20 physicians and dedicated staff members providing patients with exceptional treatment, as well as actively serving their communities. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us through our website.
You may be considering shoulder replacement surgery if you suffer from life-limiting shoulder pain that doesn’t respond to non-operative treatments. The procedure helps relieve pain, improve function and increase your comfort with daily activities.
While it can significantly enhance your quality of life, you may still have reservations about shoulder replacement and its impact on your lifestyle. Dr. Michael Bender, a shoulder and elbow specialist at Forté, breaks down the three phases of the rehabilitation process so you know what to expect from the recovery timeline.
0-4 Weeks: Protective Phase
For the first four weeks after surgery, you’ll be in the protective phase of rehabilitation. The main goals of this phase are as follows:
During this phase, physical therapists will guide you through gentle stretching exercises to help prevent stiffness.
“There is often less pain following shoulder replacement than other joint replacements, such as the knee, but functionality is limited,” says Bender. “During the first phase of rehabilitation, you won’t be allowed to lift and raise your arms, but you can use your hands for writing, typing, cutting food and other similar activities.”
Sleep is typically the most challenging part of the protective phase, with side and stomach sleepers often having the hardest time adjusting.
“It’s okay to sleep on your back, so patients often prop themselves up with bed pillows, a wedge pillow or use a recliner,” says Bender. “Prior to surgery, it’s not a bad idea to practice sleeping on your back if you’re not used to doing so.”
1-3 Months: Mobility Phase
From one to three months after surgery, you’ll be in phase two of the rehabilitation process. Your shoulder should be less painful than it was before the procedure, and your focus will be on three main areas:
“You’ll be able to get dressed, raise your arm to reach items and other everyday stuff, but we’re still protecting the repaired tendon,” says Bender. “Once the tendon is fully healed, it’s extremely unlikely that you would have any setbacks. That’s when we can get more aggressive with physical activities.”
3-6 Months: Strengthening Phase
From three to six months post-op, you’ll be in the final phase of your rehabilitation and can focus on increasing the strength of your shoulder.
“The vast majority of patients return to sports and other physical activities somewhere between four and six months,” says Bender. “At this point, the shoulder is typically strong enough to do the things they want, such as golf, pickleball and swimming.”
While some surgeons may restrict physical activity, Bender believes your shoulder will let you know what it can handle.
“We provide general guidance so that patients understand really intense activities or powerlifting could wear out your implants sooner, but these are big picture guidelines and not strict instructions or restrictions that would be the same for all patients,” he says. “The motion, strength and function gained in therapy will help determine what its capable of.”
Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Recovery Timeline
While many patients fully recover from shoulder replacement surgery in four-six months, many factors can affect the recovery timeline, such as:
Still, total shoulder replacement is an effective procedure, with most patients returning pain-free to sports and daily activities.
To schedule a consultation with one of our shoulder replacement physicians, call 317.817.1200.
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