Rotator cuff tear surgery is a complex procedure that requires a great deal of preparation and aftercare. Recovery from surgery can take several months, and it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect during your recovery from rotator cuff tear surgery and the steps you can take to promote healing.
Immediately after Surgery:
After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored until you are stable enough to return home. You may experience pain and discomfort after the surgery, and your doctor will provide you with medication to manage your pain. You will also be given specific instructions on how to care for your shoulder, including how to change your dressings and when to return for a follow-up appointment.
First Few Weeks:
During the first few weeks after surgery, you will need to limit your activities to allow your shoulder to heal properly. Your doctor will likely recommend that you wear a sling to immobilize your shoulder and keep it in place. You will also need to avoid any activities that involve lifting or reaching overhead.
Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy will start somewhere between the first and sixth weeks after your surgery. The start date will depend on the severity of your tear with larger tears generally starting later to improve your chances of healing. Your doctor will likely recommend physical therapy to help you regain your range of motion and strength in your shoulder. Physical therapy may involve a combination of exercises and stretches that are designed to help you rebuild your strength and improve your flexibility. Physical therapy is usually recommended for at least 6-9 months and maybe longer depending on your recovery.
Long-term Recovery:
It can take at least 6 to 12 months for your shoulder to fully heal after surgery. Again, this will depend on the severity of your tear at the time of surgery. In revision cases (previously failed repairs), it can be up to 18 months. It's important to be patient and follow your doctor's and physical therapist's instructions carefully. During this time, you may need to continue physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation to help you regain your strength and mobility.
To promote healing, it's important to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy well-balanced diet, and avoid smoking or drinking alcohol. You may also need to make certain modifications to your daily routine, such as avoiding certain activities or using assistive devices to help you perform certain tasks in the early phases of your recovery.
If you experience any pain, swelling, or other symptoms during your recovery, it's important to contact your doctor immediately. With proper care and attention, you can expect to make a full recovery from rotator cuff tear surgery and return to your normal activities in time.
Next Steps
We hope this helped to answer some of your questions about rotator cuff tears. If you're experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, it's important to seek guidance from a medical professional. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with us, click on the Schedule Consultation button at the top of the screen or give us a call at 303-344-9090 to request an evaluation from Dr. Thon. Thank you for reading and we look forward to helping you achieve life, without injury.