Will I need antibiotics after surgery?

Antibiotics will be given through your IV immediately before surgery. No additional antibiotics are required afterward.

Can I take Advil or other anti-inflammatories for pain?

AVOID NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aleve, Mobic, meloxicam, diclofenac sodium, naproxen, etc.) for 4 weeks after any arthroscopy procedure. NSAIDs can delay healing of tendinous structures and may negatively impact recovery.

How long do I need to wear my sling?

If you’ve had shoulder surgery, wear your sling 24 / 7—including while sleeping—except when:

• Participating in physical therapy
• Showering

Duration by procedure:

• Shoulder replacement: 3–4 weeks
• Rotator cuff repair: 4 weeks
• Labral repair: 4 weeks
• Biceps tenodesis / Regeneten: 2 weeks

When should I start physical therapy?

We aim to schedule your first physical-therapy appointment before surgery:

• Shoulder surgery: begin PT 10–14 days post-op
• Knee surgery: begin PT 3–5 days post-op

If you haven’t been contacted to schedule, please call our office.

When can I drive?

Do not drive if any of the following apply:

• You are taking narcotic pain medication
• You are wearing a sling
• You are wearing a knee brace and have not been cleared by your provider

For knee arthroscopy patients, avoid driving until after your post-op visit.

Can I travel by plane or take long car rides after surgery?

Avoid flights or extended car travel for 4–6 weeks post-surgery if possible. If travel is unavoidable, notify our office—your provider may prescribe a blood thinner for the day of travel to lower the risk of blood clots.

When is my first follow-up appointment?

Your first follow-up appointment has already been scheduled. You’ll receive the details on the day of your surgery.

Still have questions? Call our team at (904) 328-6706.