Rotator Cuff Repair

Indications:

• Performed for Painful symptomatic rotator cuff tear.

Rotator Cuff Repair (Arthroscopic or Open)

• This protocol is based on maintaining range of movement in the first phase and then gradually building strength in the middle to the last phase.

Pre operation

• ROM Exercises
• Maximise shoulder strength of deltoid, intact cuff muscles and scapula stabilisers.

Day 1 - 3 weeks

• Polysling with body belt
• Wrist/hand/finger exercises
• Elbow flex/ext, pro/supination
• Scapula setting exercises
• Pendular exercises
• Passive ROM in all directions as tolerated

3 - 6 weeks

• Do not force or stretch
• Gentle isometric exercises in neutral as pain allows
• Wean off sling
• Begin active assisted exercises ensuring glenohumeral movement, not scapulothoracic.

6 weeks +

• Progress to full active exercises in all ranges
• Begin rotator cuff strengthening (pain free)
• Closed chain exercise
• Begin stretching the capsule
• Begin proprioceptive exercises

Milestones

4 Weeks

• >50% pre op passive ROM

6 Weeks

• Active assisted ROM equal to pre op level

12 Weeks

• Active ROM equal to pre op level

Return to functional activities

Driving                       

• 6 Weeks

Swimming                  

• Breaststroke:  6 weeks
• Freestyle:  3 months

Golf                            

• 3 Months

Lifting                        

• 3 Months (then guided by the strength of the individual patient)

Return to work           

• Sedentary job: 3 weeks
• Manual job:     Guided by Surgeon may be between 3-6 months.

To print a copy of this page click here.