Wound Care
Same as Diagnostic Arthroscopy
Phase 1: First 2 weeks
- If you have had debridement (removal of the damaged tissue but no repair), no further rehabilitation is required. A sling will be provided for comfort only.
If you have had repair of the PASTA lesion:
- You must keep your sling on at this stage
- You can remove the sling for washing or if you are sitting at a desk
- You must take the arm out of the sling and gently bend and straighten your elbow to stop it becoming stiff
- Gently lift the affected arm forwards with the good hand several times a day, do not actively lift the arm forwards
- You can discard the sling 2 weeks following surgery
Phase 2: 3 to 6 weeks
- You will be seen in the clinic for a wound check at approximately 3 weeks
- You should now start with the physiotherapist
- Start to actively lift the am straight forwards
- Start to work on lifting the arm out to the side (like a wing) with the palm facing the floor
- You must still not lift anything heavier than 2kg until 6 weeks
Phase 3: 6 to12 weeks
- Aim: full range of motion by 8 weeks postop
- Once this has been achieved strength work can be developed.
Phase 4: 12+ weeks
- You will be seen in the clinic at approximately 12 weeks, you may be discharged at this stage if you are doing well
- At this stage you may start strength work if you have not already done so
- Aim: return to overhead sports at 6 months