Rotator cuff repair surgery is a highly effective and life-changing procedure, but recovery takes time and intention. Depending on the extent of the tear, full recovery can take up to 18 months and is rarely linear. It is a tedious process requiring patience, discipline, and close adherence to your shoulder surgeon’s postoperative instructions.
The good news is that there are steps you can take to make the journey smooth and manageable. Here are some tips for making your recovery from rotator cuff repair surgery streamlined, comfortable, and ultimately successful.
Wearing Your Sling As Directed
Your shoulder surgeon made you wear a sling for a good reason: to protect your shoulder during the most vulnerable stage of healing. Use it exactly as directed to prevent sudden or unintended shoulder movement that can disrupt the healing process and prolong your recovery.
That said, too much reliance on the sling can lead to stiffness or delayed mobility. Follow your shoulder surgeon’s advice on when and how long to wear it, as well as when it is safe to begin gentle movements.
Making Your Home Environment Conducive to Recovery
Recovery is much easier when your environment is set up for it. Prior to your surgery (or as early as possible afterward), reorganize your home to make your daily tasks easy to do with just one arm.
Simple changes to your living space, like the ones below, can help you carry out your daily activities without straining your operated shoulder:
- Move essentials (toiletries, snacks, clothes) to waist or chest height.
- Using pump bottles, easy-pour pitchers, and pre-cut foods
- Placing frequently used items on the side opposite your surgical arm.
Adapting your space to your temporary needs also helps you avoid frustration during recovery. It allows you to focus less on logistics and more on healing.
Asking for Help
You might be independent by nature, but recovery is not meant to be navigated alone. Accepting can help reduce your risk for complications and let you focus on healing.
Reach out to your loved ones, friends, or neighbors for assistance with:
- Grocery runs or meal prep
- Driving you to follow-up appointments
- Carrying items or doing housework
Studies suggest that people with a strong support system post-surgery recover much faster, are less likely to get readmitted, and have better overall treatment outcomes.
Avoiding Overexertion
While it can be tempting to rush back into your normal routine, doing too much too soon is likely to be counterproductive. It can lead to delayed healing or, worse, the need for another surgery.
Your way forward is to pace yourself by spreading your tasks across the day or week and giving your body time to recharge in between.
Incorporating Gentle Movement When Approved
Once cleared by your surgeon, start gentle movements to prevent stiffness. Never force movement beyond what is advised.
Physical therapy, which typically begins a couple of weeks after surgery, can help you restore shoulder mobility, strength, and function in the safest, most comfortable way possible.
Knowing Your Pain (And How to Manage It)
Effective pain management is an integral part of recovery: It helps speed up healing and reduce the risk of complications. Take prescribed medications exactly as directed, and do not wait for the pain to become intense before addressing it. Staying ahead of the discomfort can make your recovery easier and smoother.
Alternating between cold and heat therapy can help soothe post-surgical shoulder pain: cold reduces inflammation and swelling, while heat promotes blood flow and relaxes stiff muscles. Likewise, employing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or guided audio has been shown to help reduce pain.
Call your shoulder surgeon right away if you experience severe or worsening pain in your operated shoulder.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Carmel, IN
If you are considering rotator cuff repair surgery and looking for a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon in Carmel, IN, look no further than Dr. Stephen Jacobsen here at Total Shoulder.
Dr. Jacobsen is a trusted name in the field, known for his expertise, professionalism, and compassionate, patient-first approach. He takes the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and constantly strives to deliver the best possible outcomes.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacobsen, contact us today at (317) 705-4392 or use our secure and convenient appointment request form.
