MOVE Thoughts

Your Guide to Weightlifting After a Shoulder Surgery

Written by Roger St. Onge | Apr 30, 2022 4:00:00 AM

It is imperative to take the proper precautions when weightlifting after shoulder surgery. Weightlifting can put a lot of strain on the shoulder, which is already weak from the surgery. Here are a few tips to ensure you stay safe and avoid further injury.

1. Start Slow

After your surgery, you will most likely be eager to get back to your regular lifting routine. However, it is vital to start slow and gradually increase the amount of weight you are lifting. Your body needs time to heal and recover from the surgery, so rushing into things can cause further damage. The last thing you want is to go through another surgery because you were lifting too much too soon. 

Therefore, it is vital to start slow, with very light weights, and gradually increase the weight and intensity as you heal. You should not try to lift the same weight you were lifting before surgery. Your body needs time to heal and recover.

2. Use Proper Form

After surgical treatment, another essential tip for weightlifting is to use proper form when lifting weights. This means using the correct technique for each exercise and not using momentum to swing the weight around. Proper form is essential for any lifting, but it is crucial after shoulder surgery. Make sure you are using the right muscles and not putting too much strain on your shoulder. 

If you are unsure about your form, ask a certified personal trainer or your doctor for help. Make sure you are using a weight that you can handle and using proper form when weight lighting to avoid any further injury. This is especially important if you are lifting heavy weights.

3. Listen To Your Body

It is essential to listen to your body and know when to stop. If you start to feel any pain, stop immediately and rest. Pushing yourself too hard can cause further damage to your shoulder. After a Shoulder surgical treatment, weightlifting can be safe and successful if you take the proper precautions and listen to your body. 

Before lifting, make sure you warm up your muscles with some light cardio and stretching. This will help avoid any further injury. After you are done lifting, cool down your muscles with some light cardio and stretching. This will help your muscles recover and prevent any further injury.

4. Get Clearance From Your Physical Therapist

Before starting any type of lifting after shoulder surgical treatment, it is essential to get approval from a physical therapist. You should talk to a professional physical therapist before you start lifting weights again. Your PT will be able to advise you how much weight you can lift and how often you should lift. 

Medical professionals know your individual case and will be able to give you the best advice for your situation. This will help you avoid any further injury and help you heal properly.

You might also want to use a weightlifting rack. This will help you keep the weight in the proper position and avoid further injury.

Closing Out

You can help ensure a triumphant and safe return to weightlifting after shoulder surgery by following these precautions. If you have any other questions, the team at MOVE Athletics is here to help. Visit our Springfield physical therapy center today. We look forward to seeing you.