How can physical therapy help after your rotator cuff surgery?

It’s more than just athletes who are subject to the pain associated with a torn rotator cuff. Nearly 20% of people will experience a torn rotator cuff, according to a research study. The study also found that the frequency increased with age. Furthermore, research estimates that shoulder pain affects 31% of Americans each month. In many cases, a torn rotator cuff requires surgery. Physical therapy can help you heal after rotator cuff surgery. 

About the rotator cuff

Your shoulder is made up of a ball-and-socket joint. The rotator cuff’s job is to keep the ball portion of the joint centered in the socket. When the rotator cuff is torn or compromised, it can cause pain in your shoulder and arm. You may find that relieving this pain can be a challenge. 

Can surgery help?

When it comes to the shoulder, even just a small tweak can cause some severe pain. Such an injury can be caused by overuse, leading to tendinitis, bursitis or tears. In many cases, physical 

therapy can help you heal more quickly from rotator cuff surgery.. 

Exercises for after surgery

You may find yourself looking for ways to safely move your shoulder post-surgery. Physical therapy exercises can help you safely strengthen your rotator cuff after surgery. Check out these most recommended physical therapy exercises to do after rotator cuff surgery: 

• Reaching exercises — While sitting in a chair, gently raise your arms over your head, straightening as much as you can comfortably. Alternate moving each arm forward, acting like you are reaching for something. 

• Assisted shoulder elevation — You can try this exercise while sitting or standing. Begin by cupping your hands together, slowly lifting your arms toward your head. Try to keep your arms as straight as comfortably possible. After about 20 seconds, lower your arms back to the starting position.

• Rotator cuff strength — While standing, place your arms slightly behind your back and clasp your hands together. Stretch your arms as much as is comfortably tolerated and slowly raise your arms.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.