Rotator cuff repair

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Surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff is usually very successful at relieving pain in the shoulder. The procedure is less predictable at returning strength to the shoulder. Rotator cuff repair can require a long recovery period, especially if the tear was large.

In many cases, arthroscopy reduces the need to surgically open the shoulder joint. This can resulted in less pain and stiffness. In cases of repair, one should remember that the body still needs to heal after arthroscopic surgery, just as if the surgery was done open. Therefore, the overall recovery time will still be lengthy.

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The recovery can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on the size of the tear and other factors. Most patients wear a sling after surgery for the first week. This may be extended up to six weeks. Pain is usually managed with medications.

When you can return to work or play sports will depend on the surgery that was performed, but it will usually be several months.

Physical therapy may help you to regain the motion and strength of your shoulder. The length of therapy will depend on the repair that was performed.

Review Date: 06/07/2005
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S. Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, Vail, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).