Hand swelling after rotator cuff surgery

After shoulder surgery, the arm may spend long periods in a sling and below heart level. Limited elbow, wrist, and finger movement can allow fluid to collect in the hand. Bruising can also travel down the arm as healing progresses. Mild swelling that improves with elevation and approved movement may be expected, but the surgical team should know about persistent or worsening symptoms.

Follow the sling and exercise instructions from your surgical team. When allowed, support the forearm and hand so they sit higher than the elbow, move the fingers gently, and keep dressings dry. Do not remove the sling, lift the operated arm, or begin exercises that were not prescribed. See Hand Swelling for broader symptom information.

Contact the surgical team promptly if swelling is rapidly increasing, the hand becomes cold, blue, very pale, or numb, or pain is not controlled by the agreed plan. Urgent assessment is needed for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, severe calf pain, fever with a worsening wound, or a tight dressing. Do not wait for the next routine appointment when circulation or sensation changes.

Ask how high to position the arm, which finger and wrist movements are permitted, and what amount of swelling is expected for your operation. Also ask whom to call after hours and whether the sling or dressing needs checking.