What to Expect When You're Expecting: A Rotator Cuff Surgery

 

Facing rotator cuff surgery can feel daunting, but with preparation and a positive attitude, you can navigate the recovery process smoothly. In the next of our "What to Expect When You're Expecting" Series, we will guide you through what to expect before, during, and after your surgery, so you can focus on healing and regaining shoulder strength.

Before the Surgery:

• Consultation and Diagnosis: Your doctor will discuss the severity of your tear, the type of surgery recommended (arthroscopic or open), and answer any questions you have.
• Pre-Op Preparations: This might involve blood tests, imaging scans, and medication adjustments. Your doctor will also provide instructions on stopping certain medications and fasting before surgery.
• Physical Therapy: In many cases, pre-surgical exercises/rehabilitation can strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve your post-surgical recovery. Ask your surgeon about this as I personally have seen a big difference in patients who do some form of therapy before surgery than those who don't. Even if it's just 1-2 weeks!

During the Surgery:

• Anesthesia: You'll likely receive general anesthesia or a regional block to numb the shoulder area.
• The Procedure: Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive, using small incisions and a camera to repair the tear. Open surgery requires a larger incision for direct access to the shoulder joint.
• Recovery Room: After surgery, you'll be monitored in the recovery room until you're awake and stable.

After the Surgery:

• Pain Management: Expect some pain and swelling initially, but your doctor will prescribe medication to manage it.
• Immobilization: Your arm will likely be placed in a sling for a few weeks to protect the repair.
• Physical Therapy: This is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your shoulder. A physical therapist will create a personalized rehabilitation program for you.

Physical Therapy:

• Stages of Recovery: Physical therapy after rotator cuff surgery is typically divided into stages, with each stage focusing on different goals.
  • Early Stage (Weeks 1-6): The focus is on pain management and gentle passive range-of- motion exercises. Your therapist will move your arm for you, while you focus on relaxing the muscles. You might also use ice therapy and modalities like electric stimulation to reduce inflammation/control symptoms.
  • Middle Stage (Weeks 6-12): As pain subsides, you'll progress to active-assisted exercises where you help move your arm with your therapist's guidance. Stretching exercises become more prominent to improve flexibility. You will likely be prescribed low-level muscle activation exercises during this time frame, as well.
  • Later Stage (Weeks 12-16+): Strengthening exercises become the mainstay of therapy. You'll use light weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises to build strength in the rotator cuff muscles and surrounding stabilizers. Exercises will gradually become more challenging as you progress.

Additional Tips:

• Home Exercise Program: Your physical therapist will provide you with a home exercise program to perform daily. Consistency is key to see results and maintain the progress made during therapy sessions.
• Communication is Key: Don't hesitate to ask your therapist questions or voice any concerns you have about pain or limitations during exercises.
• Post-Surgical Therapy Timeline: The duration of physical therapy varies depending on your individual recovery. Be patient and committed to the process for optimal results.

Remember: This blog post provides a general overview. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for pre- and post-surgical care.