Does Your Torn Rotator Cuff Require Surgery?
A torn rotator cuff is a common shoulder injury, especially with age. Statistics reveal that over 22% of adults over 40 may have some form of rotator cuff damage. The rotator cuff combines tendons, ligaments, and muscles that cover the shoulder joint and assist with movement. Severe tears that do not respond to conservative treatment often require surgery. Rotator cuff repair surgery consists of reattaching damaged tendons or ligaments back to the bone of the upper arm. The repair can be done via open surgery or arthroscopy, an outpatient procedure. After surgery, the patient will need time and physical therapy (PT) to regain shoulder range of motion (ROM). Understanding the timeline can help patients prepare and work toward full function.
It’s all about recovery
Recovery is vital in any orthopedic surgery, and rotator cuff repair is no exception. Surgery simply reattaches the tendon but does not restore strength, flexibility, or ROM. Therefore, a rotator cuff repair patient needs extensive physical therapy consisting of stretches and strengthening exercises. These exercises and strategies slowly let the shoulder lift through a wider range without pain. Recovery depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the type of surgical procedure, the patient’s current physical health, and attention to detail during PT.
A long road to more shoulder mobility
The entire recovery timeline can range from 4-6 months for minor tears and up to 12 months for severe tears or complete detachment from the bone. Immediately after surgery, the goal is to focus on pain management and immobilization so the incisions can heal. This timeline can be as long as 2-4 weeks. At the 4-6 week mark, the tendon is expected to heal. The physiotherapist will focus on exercises to increase passive ROM while strengthening the surrounding muscles. Weeks 6-12 increase in intensity, testing the strength and movement of the shoulder. Weight may be added to strength therapy. Stretching with resistance bands is also recommended. The range of motion will continually improve. At this stage, patients can also return to normal activities like driving, lifting light objects, working, and social activities.
How soon will ROM return?
From 12 weeks onward, the patient will continue with infrequent but practical therapy sessions. During the 4-6 month period, the full range of motion is also expected to return. The patient should be able to move the shoulder completely overhead with minimal to no pain. This timeline depends on factors such as age, fitness levels, and the severity of the rotator cuff tear. Young athletes may experience full ROM from 4 months, while older patients may need 6 months or more. While athletes will achieve full ROM, additional training and therapy are necessary to return to full physical fitness, which can take additional months.
Enjoy a healthier shoulder
The rotator cuff is an essential part of the shoulder, necessary for the most basic of arm movements. A torn rotator cuff can take 4-6 months to heal and restore full ROM. Some patients may need more time, but with consistent treatment, the surgery should be successful. Continued exercise, pain management, and mobility training are recommended after recovery up to and beyond 1 year. A doctor and physical therapist can discuss recovery timelines and guidelines based on the individual needs of the patient. Be positive and patient, and a healthy shoulder with full range of motion is within reach.
