How long after rotator cuff surgery can I play sports?

Rotator cuff surgery — even arthroscopic surgery — requires at least four to six months of healing before you can fully engage in your usual sports. The time required for recovery depends on your particular injury — partial tear versus full tear versus shoulder tendinitis, for example.

How soon after rotator cuff injury should you start physical therapy?

Most patients start physical therapy after a rotator cuff repair within a few weeks. In the beginning, your shoulder will be sore, so it’s best to keep up with your pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon.

How long after rotator cuff surgery is full range of motion?

Many patients return to full strength and have complete range of motion four to six months after surgery. 1 Recovery can be a slow process, so following a physician’s care routine is crucial. How long does rotator cuff surgery take? Rotator cuff surgery usually takes a few hours.

How long after surgery can you play sports?

Some athletes return to full activity in as little as 4-6 weeks after minimally invasive surgeries; others may require some physical therapy and take a few months to recover.

How long does it take a shoulder to heal after shoulder surgery?

During your recovery period, you will work with your physical therapist to regain motion and strengthen the area. The rotator cuff surgery recovery timeline can vary case by case, but a full recovery typically takes four to six months. It may take longer than that to return to heavy lifting.

How soon can you lift weights after rotator cuff surgery?

You should not resume weight lifting until cleared by your doctor to do so. For rotator cuff repair patients this is often 4-6 months after surgery.

Can you drive 6 weeks after rotator cuff surgery?

It’s important to note that during rotator cuff surgery recovery, you will likely be in a sling from 2 to 6 weeks. Until you’re out of your sling, it is not recommended to drive. Reaction times with one arm, especially non-dominant, are reduced after surgery. Once the sling is off, you need to evaluate your pain level.

What is the recovery process for rotator cuff surgery?

Over time, you start activities above the level of your shoulder. Then you slowly work back into the sport or exercise you normally do. In this video, I explain the recovery process for rotator cuff surgery and what you can expect as you return to sports like tennis or exercise like weights after a rotator cuff tear.

Is it safe to move my arm after rotator cuff surgery?

If you had rotator cuff surgery or other ligament or labral surgery, you need to be careful with your shoulder. Ask the surgeon what arm movements are safe to do. DO NOT move your arm away from your body or over your head.

How long does it take to recover from shoulder replacement surgery?

Most doctors will clear patients for shoulder motion without any assistance after 8 weeks. Like with any new activity, take it in steps and realize that you will not have full, unrestricted motion immediately. Most patients, when lifting the arm up overhead, will notice that the head of the humerus bone will ride upwards and restrict motion.

Why can’t I exercise my shoulder after rotator cuff surgery?

This is because the rotator cuff muscles lack full control of the shoulder. Practice moving through only the part of the range that looks controlled. You should notice over time that your range will improve. Now that you are 3 months post-operative, you should be at the point where you can introduce light resisted exercises.