Rotator cuff injuries can be painful and debilitating, impacting our ability to perform even the simplest of daily activities- dressing, cooking, playing tennis, lifting your kids. When conservative treatment options fail to provide relief, rotator cuff surgery becomes a viable solution. As an occupational therapist, I help countless patients on their journey to recovery after rotator cuff surgery. In this blog post, I will share insights, tips, and exercises to help you navigate the road to recovery and regain strength, mobility, and functionality in your shoulder. Because news flash- you need your shoulder to do just about everything!
Understanding Rotator Cuff Surgery:
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and facilitating movement of the shoulder. The rotator cuff is made up of 4 muscles: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis. Surgery may be necessary when the rotator cuff is severely damaged, either due to acute trauma or chronic overuse. The surgical procedure typically involves repairing or reattaching the torn tendons to the bone.
The Initial Post-Surgery Phase:
Following rotator cuff surgery, the initial phase of recovery involves managing pain, reducing swelling, and protecting the healing tissues. Your therapist will guide you through this crucial stage and may use modalities such as ice, heat, stretching and gentle range-of-motion exercises to promote healing and prevent complications. You will be in a sling just about full time at this stage- coming out of it only a few times a day for hygiene and exercises as provided by your therapist. Sleeping in a recliner is typically most comfortable at this stage.
Passive Range-of-Motion and Stretching:
As your shoulder begins to heal, your therapist will gradually introduce passive range-of-motion exercises. The focus here is to get your joint moving without putting stress on the repaired structures. You therapist will stretch your joint and may complete joint mobs- a gentle pressure that helps to mobilize your joints to improve and prevent stiffness. Based on your surgery and progress they may teach you exercises to do at home involve using your uninjured arm or assistance from a tool to move your injured arm. The goal is to maintain mobility in the shoulder joint without firing the healing muscles. These exercises are typically performed in a pain-free range and may include pendulum swings, and passive stretching. It is also important to move the fingers, wrist and elbow to ensure those don't tighten up. When not at therapy or doing exercises it is best to rest in your sling. You want to avoid reaching and lifting at all costs!
Strengthening and Active Range-of-Motion:
Once your surgeon approves (typically around 6 weeks), your therapist will progress your rehabilitation program to include strengthening exercises and active range-of-motion exercises. You will start to come out of the sling and complete gentle strengthening exercises focus on rebuilding the strength and endurance of the rotator cuff muscles and the surrounding shoulder muscles. Examples of exercises at this stage may include resistance band exercises, scapular stabilization exercises, and isometric exercises targeting the rotator cuff. This phase typically lasts from 6-12 weeks post op.
Gradual Return to Functional Activities:
Recovery from rotator cuff surgery is a gradual process, and your therapist will work closely with you to facilitate a safe return to your daily activities and hobbies. This stage of rehabilitation involves functional exercises that mimic the movements required for specific tasks, such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, or throwing a ball. Your therapist will assess your progress and guide you through a progressive exercise program tailored to your goals and specific needs. This stage typically lasts form 10-12 weeks post op.
Preventing Future Injuries:
As you regain strength and functionality in your shoulder, it's important to focus on preventing future injuries. Your physical therapist will educate you on proper body mechanics, shoulder positioning, and techniques to avoid excessive strain on the rotator cuff. They may also recommend exercises to improve posture, shoulder stability, and overall upper body strength, which can contribute to long-term shoulder health.
Patience and Persistence:
Recovering from rotator cuff surgery requires patience and persistence. Every individual's journey is unique, and it's essential to listen to your body, follow your therapist's guidance, and pace your progress accordingly. It's normal to experience setbacks or temporary plateaus, but with dedication and consistency, you can achieve an optimal recovery outcome.
Conclusion:
Rotator cuff surgery can provide much-needed relief for individuals suffering from debilitating shoulder pain. Through comprehensive rehabilitation guided by a skilled physical or occupational therapist, you can regain strength, mobility, and functionality in your shoulder. Embrace the process, stay committed to your exercises, and remember that you're on the path to recovery. Soon enough, you'll be back to enjoying life's activities with a healthier and more resilient shoulder.
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