Occasionally, one (or more) of your rotator cuff muscles can eitherpartiallyor completely tear.
This can happen as a result of wear and tear over time or after a traumatic injury.
Regardless, this issue can significantly impact the strength, stability, and movement of your arm.
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Because of this,a rotator cuff repair surgerymay need to be performed.
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What Is Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery?
Not every rotator cuff tear needs to be repaired.
In fact, asymptomatic rotator cuff tears are common.
Multiple studies have found that the prevalence of asymptomatic rotator cuff injuries may be as high as 46%.
That said, there are certain specific symptoms and situations where a rotator cuff repair surgery may be warranted.
Soft tissue massage and icing may also be utilized to alleviate the post-operative soreness and swelling that normally occurs.
There is still some disagreement about the optimal duration of this rehab phase.
A certain amount of stiffness and pain is still typically present in the shoulder at this stage.
Because of this, passive stretching by the therapist and icing may still need to be performed.
Usually, this phase of rehab lasts for three to four weeks.
By this point, the surgical repair is more secure and can tolerate light resistance.
If a return to athletics is desired,sport-specific exercises for throwingmay also be introduced during this stage.
Summary
Rotator cuff repair surgery involves fixing torn or damaged tendons in the shoulder.
This surgery typically requires four stages of physical therapy as you recover.
In the second stage, you’ll work on active stretching.
A Word From Verywell
Recovering from a rotator cuff repair requires both persistence and patience.
Working hand in hand with a knowledgeable PT gives you the best chance at a successful outcome.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Rotator cuff tears.
Lawrence RL, Moutzouros V, Bey MJ.Asymptomatic rotator cuff tears.JBJS Rev.
2019;7(6):e9.
doi:10.2106/JBJS.RVW.18.00149
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Rotator cuff tears: surgical treatment options.
Thomson S, Jukes C, Lewis J.Rehabilitation following surgical repair of the rotator cuff: a systematic review.Physiotherapy.
2017;47(12):931-944. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7271
