MAIN OFFICE:

EVANS OFFICE:

University Hospital
Professional Center 3
Suite 20
811 13th Street
Augusta, GA 30901
Phone: (706) 722-3401
Appointments:
(706) 823-3812
Billing & Insurance:
(706) 722-1197
Fax: (706) 724-6540

University Professional
Complex-Evans
Suite 101
4321 University Parkway
Evans, GA 30809
Phone: (706) 854-2140
Fax: (706) 854-2925

General Instructions

• Apply ice covered with a towel to shoulder for 2-3 days (15-20 minutes at a time).
• Swelling and bruising is normal.  You may loosen dressing if needed.
• Low grade fevers (less than 101 degrees) are common after surgery.  Deep breathing will help with this.  If your fever persists for more than a few days, or the wound gets more red, call the office.
• Use the sling for the first 72 hours (3 days) following the procedure, and then remove the sling as tolerated. However, if you had a labral repair, a stabilization procedure, or a rotator cuff repair, you should wear the sling at all times until your first follow-up appointment, even while sleeping.
• The pain medication given to you can cause constipation, nausea and itching.  You may switch to Tylenol or Motrin when more comfortable.

• Move and use your elbow and wrist as comfort; start squeezing a soft rubber ball.
• No lifting, pushing, and pulling for 1 week.
• Start "pendulum" exercises with arm in front of body.
• Start physical therapy with a physical therapist within one week. Call 823-3807 if you do not already have an appointment and are scheduling with the OAA physical therapy group.

• Your dressing may show blood stains after surgery.  This is expected.  If the blood is still wet after the first day, call my office.
• Remove all dressings and cover wounds with band-aids after three days.
• You may shower after 3 days, earlier if your surgeon allows.
• Do not swim or submerge incisions in water for 2 weeks.

• Your comfort level should be your guide for returning to work.
• Most people are able to return after 2-3 weeks, depending on procedure performed.

• Report any complications to my office immediately.  This includes excessive bleeding, wound breakdown, increasing redness, pain, or numbness, prolonged fever over 101 degrees, or any other problem or question.
• Call office for follow-up appointment 10-14 days after surgery (if not scheduled). The number is 706-722-3401.
• A physician is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies and may be reached through the answering service by calling the regular office number 706-722-3401.