Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery Through Physical Therapy

Rotator cuff injuries are one of the more common forms of shoulder injury. While many rotator cuff problems can be solved with nothing more than ice and rest, a few more complex cases require surgery for complete repair. Following surgery, rehabilitation is normally effectuated through a protocol of physical therapy exercises.

Rotator Cuff

• According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the rotator cuff is a blanket term covering four separate muscles along with a series of tendons that exist near the point where the arm bone joints with the shoulder socket. Injuries are normally a result of overuse or overexertion, with symptoms consisting of localized pain, muscle weakness, or "popping" within the shoulder.

Surgery

• According to EHealthMD.com, more severe tears of the rotator cuff will require surgery. The surgery itself normally takes only one to two hours, with the patient receiving mild anesthetic to numb the arm and place him into a semi-conscious state. The surgery consists of opening the shoulder through a small incision and reattaching the torn tendons to the bone.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is generally prescribed following rotator cuff surgery. Physical therapy has three separate, but equally important, goals--to restore strength to the shoulder, to restore full range of motion, and to prevent future injuries. Rehab normally lasts for four to six weeks after surgery, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the particular case.

Sample Strengthening Exercise

• According to Yahoo Health, one basic strengthening exercises consists of nothing more complex than arm raises to the side. While holding the arm straight at your side, raise the arm up to shoulder level (or slightly higher), keeping the arm locked and using the muscles of the shoulder to complete the task. Repeat eight to ten times, eventually working up to holding light dumbbells in your hand.

Sample Stretching Exercise

• One basic stretching exercise is the wall slide. While facing a wall, standing roughly six to 12-inches away, place your fingertips on the wall at shoulder height. Without moving your body, "climb" the wall with your fingertips as high as you can without pain or struggle. Hold in this peak position for a few seconds before reversing. Repeat two or three times, aiming to climb slightly higher with each repetition.