The UCLA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery provides surgeons and non-operative providers who are able to diagnose your shoulder and elbow ailment, explain to you the available treatment options, and create a treatment plan with you that best fits your goals of care. If you have a shoulder or elbow injury and would like to discuss it with a provider, please call (310) 319-1234 to make an appointment.
Your surgeon will discuss with you what is needed to prepare for your surgery. This includes not just medical considerations, such as meeting with your primary care physician, but also logistical considerations as well.
Some important things to consider before your surgery include:
How many nights should I anticipate sleeping in the hospital (if at all)?
Who is going to help me with my home activities, such as cooking food and driving?
Do I need to take time off of work?
How can I optimize my healing and recovery, such as by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and stopping smoking (if applicable) prior to and following my surgery?
If you ultimately do require surgery for your shoulder or elbow injury, your post-operative recovery will be tailored to your specific situation and the surgery performed. The recovery plan is an integral part of the surgical procedure and will be discussed with you by your surgeon prior to and following your surgery.
