When can I drive after surgery for a shoulder fracture?

The first six weeks, you will be wearing a sling and won't be able to drive. You can resume driving once you're out of the sling and have appropriate control.

When can I return to work?

Most patients can work at a desk or return to school five to seven days after surgery. If you're able to work from home, your recovery will be easier in the beginning. For physically demanding jobs – especially those that require overhead lifting or strenuous arm work – you may need more time for a safe recovery and medical clearance before returning.

When can I return to sports and other physical activities?

Around six months post-op, most patients are able to resume their usual activities.

When can I shower after surgery?

You'll need to keep the incisions clean and dry until your first post-op visit; you'll likely be cleared to shower then. But you'll need to wait three to four weeks after surgery before submerging the surgical site in a bathtub or swimming pool.

Resources & Support Orthopedics

Shoulder Fracture
Resources & Support

At UCSF Health, we are renowned for our highly specialized and cutting-edge medical care. Along with innovative medicine, we strive to provide a variety of services to ensure that patients and families are fully supported while in our care. UCSF has a team of experienced social workers and condition-specific support groups as well as classes to help patients and families navigate their experiences while in our clinics and hospitals.

Our support services also include unique programs to help heal the mind and spirit, such as Art for Recovery, Healing Through Dance and complimentary spa treatments during infusion therapy. During an unfamiliar and stressful time, UCSF's support services are ready to lend a hand whenever patients and families need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I drive after surgery for a shoulder fracture?
The first six weeks, you will be wearing a sling and won't be able to drive. You can resume driving once you're out of the sling and have appropriate control.
When can I return to work?
Most patients can work at a desk or return to school five to seven days after surgery. If you're able to work from home, your recovery will be easier in the beginning. For physically demanding jobs – especially those that require overhead lifting or strenuous arm work – you may need more time for a safe recovery and medical clearance before returning.
When can I return to sports and other physical activities?
Around six months post-op, most patients are able to resume their usual activities.
When can I shower after surgery?
You'll need to keep the incisions clean and dry until your first post-op visit; you'll likely be cleared to shower then. But you'll need to wait three to four weeks after surgery before submerging the surgical site in a bathtub or swimming pool.