Rotator Cuff Repair
Complete preparation and recovery instructions for arthroscopic and open rotator cuff repair surgery.
Is Rotator Cuff Repair Right for You?
This May Be Right for You If...
- • You have a rotator cuff tear confirmed by MRI
- • You have significant weakness or pain that limits function
- • Physical therapy alone hasn't restored function
- • The tear is repairable (not all tears need surgery)
- • You can commit to 4-6 months of recovery
This May Not Be the Best Fit If...
- • Your symptoms are improving with physical therapy
- • You have a partial tear that's responding to conservative care
- • Your shoulder pain may be from arthritis or other conditions
- • You cannot follow post-op restrictions for several weeks
Not sure? Call us and we'll help you decide.
What to Expect: Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies by individual. Your surgeon will discuss your specific timeline.
Questions Before Surgery?
It's normal to have questions or feel uncertain before any procedure. Our staff is here to help you understand what to expect and address any concerns.
You can call us anytime during office hours. If you're not sure whether something is normal or a concern, call anyway—we'd rather answer your question than have you worry.
Call Us If You Have Questions About:
- Medications to stop or continue
- What to bring on surgery day
- Arranging help at home
- Any other concerns
Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-12pm
About Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair surgery reattaches torn tendons to the bone in your shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow you to lift and rotate your arm.
Most rotator cuff repairs are performed arthroscopically through small incisions. Recovery requires wearing a sling for 4-6 weeks and dedicated physical therapy for several months.
Success depends on protecting the repair during healing and following the rehabilitation protocol. Commitment to physical therapy is essential for the best outcome.
Key Recovery Milestones
- Go home: Same day or next day
- Sling use: 4-6 weeks
- Passive motion only: Weeks 1-6
- Active motion begins: Week 6
- Strengthening begins: Week 12
- Return to light activities: 3-4 months
- Full recovery: 6-12 months
Pre-Surgery Instructions
1-2 Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and other anti-inflammatory medications
- Stop taking blood thinners as directed by your surgeon
- Continue taking prescribed heart and blood pressure medications unless told otherwise
- Complete pre-operative testing as ordered
- Arrange for someone to help you at home for 2-4 weeks
- Practice tasks using only your non-operative arm
Prepare Your Home
- Move frequently used items to countertop level
- Set up a comfortable sleeping area (recliner recommended for first few weeks)
- Get button-front or loose-fitting shirts
- Prepare easy-to-open containers and pre-made meals
- Have ice packs or cold therapy device ready
- Arrange for help with driving, cooking, and household tasks
The Night Before Surgery
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight
- Shower with antibacterial soap
- Do not shave your shoulder area
- Remove all jewelry and leave valuables at home
- Pack comfortable, button-front clothing
- Get a good night's rest
Protecting Your Repair
The repaired tendon takes 12 weeks to heal. During this time, you must protect your shoulder to prevent re-tearing the repair.
For the First 6 Weeks, DO NOT:
- Lift anything heavier than a coffee cup
- Reach behind your back
- Push yourself up with your operated arm
- Reach out to the side or overhead
- Remove the sling without permission
- Use the arm actively (only passive motion allowed)
- Catch yourself if you fall
- Support weight through your arm
Post-Surgery Care Instructions
Sling Instructions
- Wear the sling at all times, including while sleeping
- Only remove the sling to shower, dress, and do exercises
- Keep elbow at 90 degrees and supported
- Use a pillow under your arm for comfort when sitting
- Wean off sling only when instructed by your surgeon
Pain Management
- Take pain medications as prescribed—stay ahead of the pain
- Ice your shoulder for 20 minutes every 2-3 hours
- Sleep in a recliner or propped up with pillows
- Use a cold therapy device if provided
- Gradually decrease medications as pain improves
Wound Care
- Keep the dressing clean and dry for 48-72 hours
- After removing dressing, cover incisions with band-aids
- You may shower after 3 days if wounds are dry
- Do not soak in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub for 4 weeks
- Let steri-strips fall off naturally
Physical Therapy
- Begin pendulum exercises and elbow/wrist movements immediately
- Physical therapy typically starts within 1-2 weeks
- Weeks 1-6: Passive motion only (therapist moves your arm)
- Weeks 6-12: Begin active motion
- After week 12: Begin strengthening exercises
- Attend all therapy appointments—this is essential for recovery
When to Call Your Doctor
While some discomfort is normal after rotator cuff surgery, certain symptoms may indicate a problem. Contact our office if you experience any of these warning signs.
Warning Signs
- Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around incisions
- Drainage or pus from the wound
- Pain that is getting worse instead of better
- Numbness or tingling that worsens in arm or hand
- Fingers appear blue or feel cold
- Sudden popping sensation with loss of strength
Office: (580) 233-6707
Questions About Your Surgery?
Our team is here to help you prepare for a successful rotator cuff repair.
(580) 233-6707