You had rotary cuff surgery sept 11 2008 you still cant left your arm over head what do do?

1. Consult with Your Doctor

Before trying any arm exercises, consult with the doctor who performed your surgery. They will be able to assess your healing progress and provide personalized guidance on what you can and cannot do.

2. Complete Physical Therapy

Depending on the extent of your surgery and your progress, you might benefit from working with a physical therapist. They can develop an exercise program specifically tailored to your needs, which may include overhead arm exercises.

3. Start with Passive Range of Motion Exercises

Before actively lifting your arm overhead, begin with passive range of motion exercises. These involve moving your arm through its full range of motion without actively using your muscles. For example, you can ask someone to gently move your arm overhead or use your unaffected arm to move the affected arm.

4. Progress to Active Range of Motion Exercises

Once you are comfortable with passive range of motion exercises, you can start active range of motion exercises. These involve actively using your muscles to move your arm through its full range of motion. Start with simple exercises like raising your arm in front of you or to the side. Gradually progress to more complex exercises as your strength improves.

5. Incorporate Strengthening Exercises

As your range of motion improves, you can start incorporating strengthening exercises to your routine. These exercises help build muscle strength and stability in your rotator cuff muscles. Examples include shoulder presses, lateral raises, and external rotation exercises.

6. Gradually Increase Intensity

Start with low resistance and a small number of repetitions. As your strength improves, gradually increase the resistance and the number of repetitions. Focus on proper form and technique to prevent injury.

7. Be Patient

Recovering from rotator cuff surgery takes time. It may take several months to a year to regain full range of motion and strength. Be patient and consistent with your exercises, and don't rush the process.

Remember, the key is to follow your doctor's instructions and progress gradually to avoid any complications or setbacks.

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