A lot of people seek the help of medical specialists to address shoulder pain. One of the common causes of shoulder pain is a rotator cuff tear. This injury is often treated with nonsurgical treatments, such as with rest, physical therapy, and medications. However, some cases call for surgery, such as persistent pain and weakness despite the use of nonsurgical treatments. Your orthopedic surgeon may also recommend surgery if your injury is significant and will require physical repairs by a surgeon.
Should you need surgery for your torn rotator cuff, you should familiarize yourself with what happens after the procedure during your recovery.
Day of Surgery
Rotator cuff surgery is typically an outpatient procedure. This means, you will be able to return home on the same day as your surgery. In some cases, your surgeon may recommend a hospital stay if there were complications in your surgery or if you have other health problems.
Once the operation is successful, your arm will be placed in a sling. The sling holds the arm in a relaxed yet restrained position, so the rotator cuff can be in a still position while it heals.
First Week Post-Surgery
The first week after your rotator cuff surgery will be spent controlling pain symptoms and resting. You will most likely take prescribed medications that will help alleviate discomfort. Your doctor may recommend alternating anti-inflammatory drugs with prescribed narcotic medications to achieve the best postoperative symptom control. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to limit your risk of infection.
Your surgeon will give you instructions on wound care following surgery. Make sure to clean the wound and replace dressing at the wound site as recommended. If you notice signs of infection (redness or a warm sensation at the site of surgery or unusual discharge), see your surgeon as soon as possible.
You will not be able to drive, operate machinery, or do a variety of things involving the use of both hands while you recover. Be sure to make accommodations with a friend or family member before your surgery. It is also important that you don’t overexert yourself. Do not be afraid to ask for help from the people around you while you recover.
1 Week to 6 Weeks Post-Surgery
Your shoulder will likely remain in a sling during this time. You will most likely feel pain at this time, but the level of pain will likely decrease gradually. Frequent application of ice packs to the affected area can help reduce shoulder pain and swelling.
During this time, your surgeon will also advise you to undergo physical therapy. Physical therapy sessions will involve you performing stretches and exercises that will improve the passive movement of the joint. The physical therapist will also instruct you on how to move the shoulder without putting undue strain on the joint. Gentle but frequent movements are necessary to prevent the formation of scar tissues. This is why starting physical therapy soon after surgery is important in your healing and recovery process.
6 Weeks to 12 Weeks Post-Surgery
By this time, the tendons in the shoulder will have healed sufficiently, and you will be able to start moving your arm much more than before. Your physical therapist will incorporate light strengthening and flexibility exercises to your routine at this time. You will also perform exercises at home. You will also see your surgeon to assess your improvement and see if you need a sling going forward.
You will likely still be instructed to refrain from lifting heavy objects or straining yourself too much. Extra resistance on the joint may cause the sutures at the surgery site to pull out. Make sure to also avoid supporting the weight of your body using your affected arm.
3 Months to 6 Months Post-Surgery
This stage, also referred to as the strengthening phase, is one of the most vital parts of your recovery process. In the past months, your rotator cuff has weakened due to the surgery and early phases of recovery, which required lack of movement. Once these parts of the body have adequately healed, you will engage in strengthening and restraint exercises.
The exercises will gradually strengthen your muscles, enabling you to resume your normal activities. To achieve this, you must follow your physical therapist’s instructions. Postoperative recovery strategies vary from person to person, so do not compare your program with others. Make sure you strictly follow your therapist’s instructions to minimize the risk of complications. This will help speed up the full range of movement of your shoulder without compromising your health or risking reinjury.
Treatment for Your Rotator Cuff Injury in Maryland
When it comes to the treatment of your rotator cuff injury, the expert team at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder is here to serve you. Our providers have a wealth of experience treating all types of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including those affecting the shoulder.
Call us at (410) 296-6232 today to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online.
