Shoulder Surgery Recovery: Rotator Cuff Repair Guide

Expert shoulder care by Dr. Vinit M Oswal | Spire Clinic, Malleshwaram, Bangalore

Understanding Rotator Cuff Repair

Had rotator cuff surgery or planning to get it? This guide explains your recovery journey in simple terms.

What is Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles around your shoulder. They help you lift and rotate your arm. When torn, they cause pain and weakness.

Recovery Timeline

• Week 0-6: Sling always, no active movement
• Week 6-12: Start gentle movement
• Week 12-20: Begin strengthening
• Month 6-9: Return to sports/activities
• 1 Year: Full recovery

Phase 1: Protection (Week 0-6)

The Sling

Most important rule: Wear sling ALL THE TIME!

• While sleeping: YES
• While showering: Only remove briefly
• While eating: Keep it on
• Remove only for exercises

Why? The tendon is healing. Moving it can tear it again!

Allowed Exercises

• Pendulum swings (gentle circles)
• Passive movement (therapist moves your arm)
• Elbow, wrist, hand exercises

You cannot actively lift your arm yourself!

Pain Management

• Take medicines on time
• Use ice packs 4-5 times daily
• Sleep in recliner or propped up
• Support arm with pillow

What You CANNOT Do

• Lift your arm yourself
• Reach behind back
• Carry anything
• Drive
• Sleep on operated shoulder

Phase 2: Gentle Movement (Week 6-12)

Sling Weaning

• Usually stop sling at week 6
• Doctor decides based on healing
• Still avoid sudden movements

Exercises Progress

• Active-assisted: You help lift with other hand
• Use stick or pulley
• Gentle stretching
• Still no heavy lifting

Daily Activities

Can start:

• Writing, typing (arm supported)
• Light self-care
• Driving (after doctor's okay, usually week 8)

Still avoid:

• Lifting overhead
• Carrying bags
• Pulling/pushing heavy doors

Phase 3: Strengthening (Week 12-20)

Building Strength

• Resistance band exercises
• Light weights (start 0.5-1 kg)
• Rotator cuff strengthening
• Shoulder blade exercises

Increasing Activities

• Most daily tasks resume
• Light household work
• Desk work fully

Still Avoid Heavy Work

• No heavy lifting (>2-3 kg)
• No overhead sports yet
• No carrying heavy bags

Month 6-9: Return to Activities

What You Can Do

• Full daily activities
• Swimming
• Light gym work
• Golf (with clearance)

Sports Return

• Non-contact sports: 6 months
• Overhead sports (tennis, badminton): 9 months
• Contact sports: 9-12 months

Always get Dr. Vinit M Oswal's clearance before sports!

Recovery Tips for Success

Do's

• Wear sling as advised
• Do exercises daily
• Follow phase-wise progression
• Attend all physiotherapy
• Be patient - healing takes time!

Don'ts

• Rush recovery
• Lift arm before cleared
• Skip exercises
• Smoke (affects healing badly)
• Miss follow-ups

Common Questions

"Why is recovery so slow?"
Tendon healing to bone takes 3-4 months. Can't rush biology!

"When can I drive?"
Usually 6-8 weeks, when off sling and have control.

"Will I get full movement back?"
Most patients get 80-90% of normal. Good enough for daily life!

"When can I work?"
Desk job: 6-8 weeks | Physical job: 3-6 months

"Can I sleep on my shoulder?"
Not for 8-12 weeks. Sleep on back or other side.

Warning Signs - Call Doctor

Contact Spire Clinic if:

• Sudden severe pain
• Popping sensation
• Can't move arm at all
• Fever or wound infection
• Shoulder looks deformed

Success Depends On You!

Rotator cuff repair success needs:

• Following sling protocol strictly
• Doing exercises religiously
• Not rushing phases
• Patience and dedication

Expert Shoulder Care in Bangalore

Dr. Vinit M Oswal
Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon
Specialized in Shoulder Surgery

Spire Clinic, Malleshwaram, Bangalore

<

📞 Book an appointment: +91 6364329177 and Visit www.drvinitoswalortho.com
🏥 Expert orthopedic care in the heart of Bangalore

• Expert rotator cuff repair
• Arthroscopic techniques
• Personalized rehabilitation
• Excellent outcomes

If you are looking for an expert orthopedic and joint replacement surgeon for Shoulder Surgery Recovery: Rotator Cuff Repair Guide and a trusted second opinion in Malleswaram, Bangalore or near Malleswaram for,Shoulder Surgery Recovery: Rotator Cuff Repair Guide, Dr. Vinit M. Oswal is the right choice for you from Spire Clinic. Our clinic, Spire Clinic, is conveniently located in Malleswaram near Mantri Square Metro Station. Consult the doctor today for advanced knee care and personalized treatment.