Recovery after Rotator Cuff Surgery

Need for Rotator Cuff Surgery

The rotator cuff in human body is a group of four muscles at the shoulder which is used for lifting and rotation of arms. When the tendon present in the muscle tears away from the bone, it is termed as rotator cuff tear.

Its symptoms include pain in outer side of the arm, pain in arms while sleeping and weakness in lifting the arm. Rotator Cuff Surgery is needed to reattach the tendons to the bone muscles and relieve the patient from pain. This surgery is usually done in minimally invasive ways such as arthroscopic repairs.

Is Rotator Cuff surgery an Out-Patient Procedure?

Yes. This surgery is an out-patient procedure where the patient can finish the surgery on the day he arrives and he can return home on the same day. Only at very rare times when the patient has medical underlying conditions, he will be advised to stay at the hospital for observation. After the Rotator Cuff Surgery, the patient’s arm is placed on to a sling which holds the arm and the patient remains in hospital till the pain is reduced.

Rotator Cuff Surgery - Recovery and its Phases:

The recovery of the patient after undergoing Rotator Cuff Surgery happens in a step by step manner.

First Day after Rotator Cuff Surgery - This day is mainly focused on pain control for the patient. The doctor prescribes smaller doses initially for the patient to get rid of discomfort. Usually doctors will prescribe anti inflammatory medications for initial days. Most importantly, icing is done in the shoulder. Applying Ice on the shoulder gradually reduces the pain.

First Phase of Recovery- Immobilization or Passive Motion – This phase is up to six weeks after Rotator Cuff surgery. In this phase the patient is advised to wear the sling. The patient should not lift arm by himself and tension should not be applied on the tendon. Also, the Physiotherapist will help the patient to move shoulder without disturbing the rotator cuff muscles. Following the doctor’s instructions carefully will help the tendon to get healed sooner.

Second Phase of Recovery- Active Motion - After few weeks, the tendon will get healed. Then the patient can lift the arm and exercise slightly. However, lifting of arm should not occur against resistance. This phase usually ranges up to twelve weeks.

Third Phase of Recovery- Strengthening - This phase is important and it begins after 3 months of Rotator Cuff Surgery. During this time the patient can lift weight in the range of 5-10 pounds. The patient can strengthen his arm by doing regular exercises with the advice of Physiotherapist.

Fourth phase of recovery- Full activity - After six months of Rotator Cuff Surgery, the patient can regain up to 80% of strength. The patient should follow regular exercises to become fully active.

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