Three weeks after rotator cuff surgery marks a significant early stage in the healing process. The body actively works to repair injured tendons, emphasizing protection of the surgical repair while gently beginning the journey toward regaining shoulder function. Recovery protocols are designed to support the delicate healing of reattached tendons. Understanding expectations helps patients manage recovery and anticipate next steps.
Typical Recovery Progress
At three weeks post-rotator cuff surgery, patients experience a gradual reduction in intense pain. Discomfort remains but is often more manageable with prescribed pain medication and cold therapy. Some soreness in the upper shoulder and neck may also be present due to sling use or changes in posture. Swelling and bruising around the shoulder and arm are common. Elevating the arm and continuing ice application can help reduce these symptoms.
The incision site usually shows signs of healing, with stitches typically removed around 10 to 14 days after surgery. Steri-Strips, if present, often fall off naturally within about a week. Keep the incision clean and dry, avoiding baths or soaking the wound for at least three weeks or until fully healed. Gentle showering is generally permitted after 48 hours to 3 days; pat the incision dry.
Managing Daily Activities and Restrictions
At three weeks, protecting the healing shoulder is paramount, with strict limitations on arm movements and activities. Patients must wear a sling continuously, removing it only for prescribed exercises or personal hygiene. This immobilization prevents strain on newly repaired tendons, allowing them to heal. Avoid all activities involving lifting, pushing, pulling, or reaching overhead to prevent re-injury. Even light tasks, such as pouring a kettle or pushing up from a chair using the operated arm, are too strenuous.
Performing basic daily tasks requires adaptation and assistance. When dressing, put clothes on the operated arm first, then the unoperated arm. For showering, support the affected arm with the opposite hand, or lean forward to let the arm dangle gently. Sleeping comfortably can be challenging; many find relief in a semi-upright position, often in a recliner or propped with multiple pillows. Placing a pillow under the operated arm provides support and promotes proper alignment. Wear the sling at night to prevent unconscious movements that could harm the shoulder.
Driving is not advised at three weeks post-surgery, especially while wearing a sling or taking pain medication. Most orthopedic advice recommends waiting at least four to six weeks, or until the sling is no longer needed and full control and pain-free movement are restored. Individuals with desk jobs might return to work within one to three weeks, but with significant restrictions on arm use. Those with jobs requiring manual labor or heavy lifting will need a much longer recovery period, often several months.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a central role in recovery at three weeks post-rotator cuff surgery, focusing on gentle passive range of motion exercises. This prevents shoulder stiffness and protects the surgical repair. Passive motion means an external force, such as a physical therapist or the patient’s unoperated hand, moves the shoulder without active engagement of the repaired rotator cuff muscles. This ensures healing tendons are not stressed.
Exercises introduced during this phase include pendulum swings, also known as Codman’s exercises. For pendulum swings, bend forward at the waist, allowing the operated arm to hang freely, then gently swing it in small circles or back and forth using torso movements. Assisted elevation exercises, where the unoperated hand helps lift the affected arm, and passive external rotation exercises (often with a stick or by a therapist) are also typical. Perform these movements within a comfortable range to avoid pain or tension on the repair.
Adherence to physical therapist instructions is paramount for a successful outcome. Exercises are performed multiple times daily, both during therapy sessions and at home. Consistent engagement with the rehabilitation program helps prevent adhesions, promotes blood flow, and gradually prepares the shoulder for more active movements. The therapist guides progression, ensuring exercises are appropriate for the individual’s healing progress and specific repair type.
Recognizing Potential Concerns
While pain and discomfort are expected after rotator cuff surgery, certain symptoms at three weeks post-operation warrant immediate medical attention. Report sudden, severe, or worsening pain not relieved by medication to the surgeon. Persistent pain, especially if accompanied by other signs, could signal an issue.
Signs of infection at the surgical site include significant redness, increased warmth, excessive swelling, or discharge of pus or foul odor. A fever higher than 101°F (38.3°C) indicates possible infection. Any unexpected numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers of the operated arm, or unexplained loss of shoulder motion or function, should prompt a call to the medical team. These symptoms suggest nerve irritation or other complications requiring prompt evaluation.