Preparing for Major Shoulder Surgery
Rotator cuff repair, instability surgery, Latarjet, SLAP repair, AC joint reconstruction
Reconstructive shoulder surgery with a longer period in a sling and a structured rehab program. Set up physical therapy before your surgery date.
Have These at Home Before Surgery
Set these up ahead of time so they're waiting for you when you get home.
Ice system
Consistent icing is essential: gel packs, an Iceman-style cooler with a shoulder pad, or a GameReady-type device.
Shop on AmazonPost-op bandage supplies
Sterile gauze and waterproof adhesive dressings for incision care.
Shop on AmazonPain medications
Fill all prescriptions BEFORE surgery day.
Prescription pain medication must be filled at your pharmacy — it cannot be purchased online.
Bring These on Surgery Day
Pack these the night before and bring them to the surgery center.
Arm sling / immobilizer
You'll be in a sling (often with an abduction pillow) for several weeks. If our office provides one, you don't need your own — check your pre-op instructions.
Shop on AmazonButton-up or zip-front shirt
Front-opening shirts you can put on one-armed. Consider a few sizes up.
Set Up Physical Therapy
Schedule your first physical therapy visit before your surgery date — therapy typically starts within the first week after surgery. Enter your ZIP code to find a PT provider we recommend near you.
PT Directory Coming Soon
We're building our directory of preferred physical therapy providers. In the meantime, call our team at 410-268-4717 and we'll recommend a PT practice near you for your procedure.
Optional — Nice to Have
Not required, but many patients find these make recovery more comfortable.
Wedge pillow
Sleeping semi-upright is usually more comfortable for the first several weeks.
Shop on AmazonScar care (silicone, vitamin E, or Mederma)
For scar appearance once incisions are fully healed. Start only after our team clears you.
Shop on AmazonThis is general guidance for our practice's most common procedures. Your specific instructions from Dr. Petre's team always take priority. Questions? Call our clinical line at 410-268-4717.