The worst day after shoulder surgery is day 2 and day 4 or the third and the 4th nights which is when the nerve block completely wears off.
The reason why day 2 and day 4 are the worst days after shoulder surgery are due to the nerve block wearing off, the rebound effect and sleep disruption.
Most people who have shoulder surgery, receive a regional nerve block, which keeps the arm numb for the first 24 hours to 48 hours, and once the numbing medication fades, the full surgical discomfort sets in rapidly, it often catches you off guard.
And nighttime discomfort after shoulder surgery tends to peak during this window, which makes it hard to find a comfortable sleeping position.
Doctors often advise their patients after shoulder surgery to take prescribed pain medication before the nerve block completely wears off to bridge the gap and applying cold therapy as directed helps control swelling and dulls nerve sensitivity around the joint.
And by days 4 to 7, pain often begins to subside, allowing many people to step down from narcotics to over the counter anti-inflammatories or Tylenol during the day.
After shoulder surgery you need someone with you for the first 24 hours to 72 hours, and often need help with daily tasks for the first 1 to 2 weeks.
After the shoulder surgery, you need a ride home and someone must drive you home from the surgical center or hospital.
And for the first 24 hours to 72 hours, you will need assistance in taking strong prescription medications.
You also need to have someone nearby for the first 3 days to 5 days to help with meals, medication schedules and dressing.
For ongoing assistance for the first 1 to 2 weeks, your arm will also be in a sling, and you can't use it to push, pull or lift.
You will also need help with bathing, preparing food and household chores during the first couple of weeks.
And you can't drive while using the narcotic pain medicines or while your arm is restricted in a sling.
And you will need rides to early physical therapy appointments.
Most people go home the same day as their shoulder surgery, but you should plan to stay mostly at home to rest for 1 to 2 weeks.
Return to Work or School after shoulder surgery:
Desk or remote jobs: You can often return in 1 to 2 weeks if you feel up to typing and managing pain.
Physical or manual labor jobs: You may need to stay home or on light duty for 3 to 4 months (or longer) to protect your healing shoulder.
Early Recovery at Home (First 1 to 2 Weeks) after shoulder surgery:
Wound care: Keep your incisions clean and dry.
Immobilization: Wear your sling almost all the time, including while sleeping.
Help needed: Arrange for someone to stay with you or check in daily for the first few days to help with meals and basic tasks.
Driving: You cannot drive while taking prescription pain medications or while your arm is immobilized in a sling (often 4 to 6 weeks or more).