You have just been diagnosed with a Rotator Cuff (RTC) Tear and are told that surgical intervention is required. What does that mean? Is it invasive? How long will it take to heal? Will I be 100% afterwards? These are all very important questions that you need to know the answer to before going into any surgery, especially RTC repair.

The first detail that you should discuss with your surgeon is the type of surgery that will be required due to the large variability of tears within the rotator cuff. The surgical incision site can vary from 3-10 centimeters with a mini-open or open repair to even smaller with an arthroscopic repair that simply inserts a small camera to perform the procedure. No matter which surgical method is performed the same postoperative precautions are observed to ensure proper tissue healing.

What to expect following surgery? Upon leaving the hospital you will be instructed to wear a sling for four to six weeks at all times depending upon the scale of the injury. During this time you should NOT actively move your arm away from your body. Within this six week restriction, you should discuss with your surgeon the appropriate time to begin physical therapy. The start of physical therapy will be based on the severity and size of the tear.

What does physical therapy consist of? The entire rehabilitation process will take about 5-6 months to return to previous activities and in some cases can take up to one year. Physical therapy will begin with regaining range of motion throughout the shoulder. Light strengthening and return to functional activities will ideally begin around week 10-12. Your physical therapist will then progress your exercise regimen accordingly so that you can gradually return to your previous activity level.  Ideally you should become pain free within 4-5 months following surgery while continuing to strengthen your shoulder muscles.

Having a shoulder operation does require a great deal of work following surgery. However, with the help of your surgical staff and physical therapist, you can return to your everyday life without the constant pain. When going into a surgery like this, be sure to ask any and all questions you may have prior, as well as during rehabilitation, to ensure having the right expectations.

Alexander Davidovich SPT