Shoulder Manipulation
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.
Shoulder manipulation is a procedure to relieve shoulder stiffness and poor range of motion. This procedure may be suggested if other treatment does not help. The goal of shoulder manipulation is to help you perform your normal daily activities. You may have pain and swelling for up to 2 weeks after your procedure. You may have mild pain and some loss of range of motion after 2 weeks. These should not keep you from normal daily activities.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- Your pain becomes worse and swelling increases.
- You have severe nausea and vomiting that continue to the day after your procedure.
- You develop a sudden cough, trouble breathing, or chest pain.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have tingling or numbness in your arm and hand that does not go away.
- You develop a rash or hives.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Self-care:
- Apply ice to help decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Place it on your shoulder for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 or 4 times per day, or as directed.
- Do not strain your shoulder. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it is okay to lift items and raise your arm over your head.
- Do your shoulder exercises as directed. You will be taught exercises to help strengthen your shoulder and keep it mobile.
Physical therapy:
You may start physical therapy the day after your procedure. A physical therapist will teach you exercises to help strengthen your shoulder.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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