5 ways that physical therapy can help someone after rotator cuff surgery

Rotator cuff injuries are a common source of shoulder pain. These injuries can be more than painful, sometimes requiring intensive treatment. This is partly because of how important the rotator cuff is. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles in the shoulder. These muscles are responsible for much of the shoulder’s stability and range of motion. When these muscles are severely injured, they may require surgery. However, the rotator cuff will still need to recover for an extended period following the operation. To keep this period as short as possible and reduce the risk of complications, effective rehabilitation is vital. Physical therapy before and after a rotator cuff surgery can help foster a healthy road to recovery. As you prepare for rotator cuff surgery, a physical therapist can help ensure that you are strong and healthy going into the operation. However, this opportunity may have passed already. If you have already undergone rotator cuff surgery, physical therapy afterward can still provide valuable guidance as you recover.

Rotator cuff injury symptoms

• Shoulder pain — Shoulder pain is one of the most common symptoms of a rotator cuff injury. This pain is often described as a continuous dull ache. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects your daily activities. Though rotator cuff tears do not heal on their own, they do not always require surgery. A minor tear can be overcome through functional improvement and strengthening. However, severe pain may be an indication of a more major tear.
   
• Joint weakness — After a rotator cuff injury, you may not feel able to lift as much as before. This is because the damaged muscles in your shoulder are usually responsible for a lot of the heavy lifting. Your range of motion may also be limited. Difficulty lifting your hands above your head is a common symptom of rotator cuff injuries.
   
• Nighttime pain — Rotator cuff pain can grow more intense at night. This is partially because of the increased pressure placed on the shoulder when you lie down. People who tend to sleep on their injured side can be especially affected by this. Nighttime pain from rotator cuff injuries can prevent you from getting quality rest. Insomnia caused by shoulder pain can lead to other issues like fatigue throughout the body.

5 benefits of physical therapy after rotator cuff surgery

• Stability exercises — After rotator cuff surgery, physical therapy is important for regaining stability. Stabilizing the shoulder joint can help reduce the chances of the area being re-injured. Stability exercises also aim to restore proper coordination and control in the shoulder joint.
   
• Pain management — A successful rotator cuff operation should reduce the pain from the initial injury. However, you may still be in pain afterward. It is normal for pain and stiffness to continue after rotator cuff surgery for months. Physical therapy can help manage this pain as you recover. Dry needling is one physical technique that can alleviate shoulder pain. By stimulating muscles and blood flow, dry needling can address some major symptoms after a rotator cuff tear.
   
• Early mobilization — Postoperative rehabilitation focuses on incremental progress. Each step is important. With physical therapy, you can receive guidance on early mobilization exercises after your rotator cuff surgery. This is an important part of building the foundation for later exercises as you gradually regain your range of motion.
   
• Functional training — Physical therapists incorporate functional training to imitate real-life situations. This is important to bridge the gap between rehabilitation exercises and unassisted movement. You can work with your therapist to make sure your functional training includes motions you repeat at work or in sports activities. 
   
• Patient education — Good physical therapy providers emphasize a collaborative approach. Part of involving the patient in their own care is educating each person on their condition and treatment options. Patient education can also include guidance on self-care activities like at-home exercises. This education can help ensure your continued physical therapy progress after rotator cuff surgery.

Find effective and affordable care after rotator cuff surgery from an Alliance PTP partner

Physical therapy can be an effective and affordable way to care for your health while recovering from rotator cuff surgery. You just need the right partner to provide it. 

Alliance Physical Therapy Partners has you covered. We can help you find a PT clinic near you that’s staffed with experienced and caring physical therapists. 

Prefer to meet with a physical therapist virtually? We’ve got you covered there, too. 

Reach out to us today so we can help you find the physical therapy that works best for your needs.