If you are one of the more than 500,000 people each year who will undergo treatment for rotator cuff-related dysfunction, you can expect some course of therapy. But because each injury is unique, what can you expect after rotator cuff repair?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles/tendons in the shoulder that stabilize the joint, allowing us to move our arms in space and rotate our upper arms. A rotator cuff injury can cause a dull ache in the shoulder, which often worsens when you try to sleep on the involved side.
Rotator cuff injuries occur more frequently among people who repeatedly perform overhead motions in their jobs (painters, mechanics) or while playing sports (tennis, swimming). The risk of rotator cuff injury also increases with age. Only a physician can diagnose for sure if your rotator cuff is affected. If not properly treated, rotator cuff injuries may lead to permanent stiffness or weakness and may result in progressive degeneration of the shoulder joint.
Sometimes the course of therapy to repair a damaged rotator cuff involves a shot of cortisone and a series of therapeutic exercises. Some therapists recommend a procedure known as dry needling, where acupuncture provides help with the release of muscle tension and pain.
If the damage is more severe, you may be referred to a surgeon for repair. If you should undergo surgery, here are a few important things to consider:
Sleeping:
- It is normal to have difficulty sleeping and getting comfortable at night after your surgery.
- The first few days or weeks after surgery, try propping up your pillows or sleeping in a comfy recliner. This will ease the pressure on your shoulders and make it easier to rest.
Activity restrictions:
- Expect to be in a sling for two to six weeks.
- Lifting typically is limited to three or four pounds for up to three months depending on the size of the tear.
- You may have to postpone more vigorous activities for anywhere from a few months to a year.
Daily activities:
- Even the simplest of activities may be challenging. Have a plan and a helper to assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and going to the bathroom.
- Be sure to keep your cell phone, water, medication and TV remotes within reach and on the opposite side of the affected shoulder.
Work:
- Depending on what your job requires, you may be able to return soon after surgery.
- Continued pain, the need for medication, inability to drive, or jobs that require you to lift or carry objects may delay your return.
Physical Therapy:
- Depending on the recommendation of your surgeon, expect to engage in a PT regimen as quickly as feasible after surgery. PT will limit shoulder stiffness, reduce scar tissue, and begin to strengthen the affected area.
- Initial treatments will focus on pain management and be limited to range-of-motion by the therapist, who will also likely provide you with pulleys or light weights to continue exercises at home.
- After four to six weeks of PT, you will begin exercises to regain strength.
- The strengthening progression typically takes an additional 12-16 weeks, depending on your goals and the activities you desire to resume.
- The ultimate goal is to regain all motion and strength and to return to pain-free activity.
Reminders:
- Take your NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and pain medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Ice the surgical area for 15 minutes out of every hour to reduce pain and swelling.
- Be aware of signs of infection (fever, chills, redness, and heat around incision, and abnormal drainage from the incision).
Remember, the road to wellness is a slow but steady one. Listen to your surgeon and physical therapist and give yourself time to heal. Endeavor Rehab Center provides the highest quality outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy, and hand therapy services in Austin, Texas. At Endeavor Rehab Center, we promote recovery, and provide treatment services and outpatient physical therapy for a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders and orthopedic injuries and conditions, specifically tailored for you. To request an appointment, please call our main office at (512) 284-7192 or use our online appointment request form.
