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Shoulder Impingement Decompression Recovery

Shoulder decompression surgery is a common outpatient procedure performed to relieve pressure and pinching of the rotator cuff tendon between the humerus and acromion bones.

Depending on physician preference, general or local anesthesia may be used. This procedure is now commonly performed arthroscopically which allows for a faster recovery.

  1. Immediate Post-Operative Care

    • After surgery, a shoulder sling is usually issued. The sling is typically worn for the first 2 to 3 days for comfort. The physician may also recommend ice packs to decrease shoulder pain and swelling.

      Pain medications are also usually prescribed prior to discharge from the surgical center and a physical therapy appointment may also be set up. Discharge instructions regarding incision site care are also given at this time.

      A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled for a few days after surgery with the surgeon.

    Recovery Weeks 1 to 2

    • Depending on physician preference, physical therapy may be initiated on the same day as surgery or a few days after.

      The goals of physical therapy in the first 1 to 2 weeks are to control pain and inflammation while gaining strength and range of motion of the shoulder.

      Physical therapy treatment may consist of exercises, ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation and manual therapy where the physical therapist moves the bones of the shoulder and shoulder blade.

    Recovery Weeks 2 to 6

    • The goals of physical therapy in weeks 2 to 6 are to eliminate pain and inflammation, gain full shoulder range of motion and improve motor control of the upper extremity.

      Physical therapy treatment may consist of more aggressive strengthening exercises with dumbbells and resistance bands, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, manual therapy and ice or heat as needed for pain relief.

    Recovery Weeks 6 to 12

    • The goals of physical therapy in weeks 6 to 12 are to achieve full painless range of motion of the shoulder, strength equal to 70 percent of the non-operated shoulder and no sign of shoulder impingement upon examination.

      Physical therapy during weeks 6 to 12 focuses on aggressive strengthening exercises to improve strength, power, endurance and motor control in preparation foe gradual return to functional activities.

    Return to Unrestricted Activity Weeks 12 - 16

    • By week 12 the physical therapist has progressed most patients to a home exercise program. Patients should be ready to return to sport or work at a full unrestricted activity level.

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