Rotator cuff surgery repairs torn shoulder tendons, which cause pain and limit movement. The procedure involves reattaching the tendon to the upper arm bone, often using small anchors and sutures. Surgeons commonly perform this through arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera.
Understanding the Surgery and Immediate Aftermath
Immediately after rotator cuff surgery, managing pain and protecting the surgical site are primary concerns. Patients receive pain medication and use ice to reduce discomfort and inflammation. Wearing a sling for 4 to 6 weeks is important to immobilize the arm, allowing the repaired tendon to heal to the bone. This immobilization prevents early, uncontrolled movements that could jeopardize the repair. During this period, patients must avoid lifting, pushing, pulling, or moving the elbow away from the body.
Individual and Surgical Influences on Recovery
Recovery duration varies due to personal and surgical factors. The tear’s size and complexity play a significant role; smaller tears heal more quickly than large ones. For example, small tears may recover in about four months, while severe tears can take six to twelve months.
Overall health, including age, diabetes, or smoking history, also impacts healing rates. Younger patients often experience faster healing due to better tissue quality and blood supply.
The quality of the patient’s tissue, including bone and muscle, influences repair success and recovery. Fatty infiltration in muscles, common in older patients or those with long-standing tears, can hinder recovery. Adherence to post-operative instructions, such as wearing the sling and avoiding certain movements, is important for successful healing and preventing re-injury. The surgical technique can also influence outcomes.
Work Return Timelines by Job Type
The time to return to work after rotator cuff surgery depends on job demands. For sedentary jobs like desk work, return can occur quickly, often within 1 to 2 weeks. Some may return within 4 to 8 weeks, especially if the job has minimal physical requirements or allows remote work. During this early return, patients perform light tasks like typing or phone calls, often with the arm in a sling and workstation modifications.
Physically demanding professions, such as manual labor involving heavy lifting or repetitive overhead movements, require a much longer recovery. Light duty might be possible around 3 to 6 months, depending on physical therapy progress. A full return to strenuous jobs can take 3 to 12 months or longer, as complete strength and range of motion are necessary to prevent re-injury. Driving restrictions, typically lasting at least 6 weeks, can also affect work return if driving is required.
The Essential Role of Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is fundamental for successful recovery after rotator cuff surgery, influencing long-term outcomes and the ability to regain full function. Rehabilitation begins shortly after surgery, focusing on protecting the repair and managing pain.
Exercise progression is gradual, starting with passive range of motion, where a therapist moves the arm. As healing progresses, patients move to active range of motion exercises, performing movements themselves. The final stage involves strengthening exercises, introduced around 6 to 10 weeks post-surgery.
Consistent adherence to the prescribed program is important for regaining strength, improving flexibility, and preventing stiffness or re-injury. Full recovery, including complete strength and endurance, can take 6 to 12 months or longer, with some studies indicating an average of 14 months for full daily activity recovery.