Effective Home Exercises After Rotator Cuff Surgery

Recovering from rotator cuff surgery requires a combination of professional physical therapy and consistent home exercises. Integrating these exercises into your daily routine can significantly enhance your recovery, improve shoulder strength, and increase flexibility. Here are some essential home exercises to support your rehabilitation:

1. Pendulum Swings

• How to Do It: Lean forward, using a table or chair for support with your non-surgical arm. Let your surgical arm hang down and gently swing it in small circles.
• Benefits: Helps increase shoulder mobility and reduces stiffness without straining the muscles.

2. Shoulder Flexion (Using a Wand)

• How to Do It: Hold a wand or broomstick with both hands. Lie on your back and use your non-surgical arm to lift the wand, raising your surgical arm overhead as far as comfortable.
• Benefits: Promotes shoulder mobility and range of motion in a controlled manner.

3. Towel Stretch

• How to Do It: Hold a towel behind your back with both hands. Gently pull the towel upward with your non-surgical arm, stretching the shoulder of your surgical arm.
• Benefits: Improves flexibility and range of motion in the shoulder.

4. Isometric Shoulder External Rotation

• How to Do It: Stand with your elbow bent at 90 degrees, holding your surgical arm against your body. Press the back of your hand against a wall or doorframe without moving your arm.
• Benefits: Strengthens the rotator cuff muscles without moving the shoulder joint, minimizing strain.

5. Wall Climb (Finger Walks)

• How to Do It: Face a wall and use your fingers to “walk” your surgical arm up the wall as high as comfortable. Lower your arm slowly and repeat.
• Benefits: Enhances shoulder mobility and helps regain range of motion.

6. Scapular Retractions

• How to Do It: Sit or stand with your arms at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold for a few seconds before relaxing.
• Benefits: Strengthens the muscles around the shoulder blades, improving overall shoulder stability.

Tips for Effective Home Exercise:

• Consistency: Perform these exercises as recommended by your physical therapist, usually several times a day.
• Gradual Progression: Start with gentle movements and gradually increase the intensity as your shoulder heals and gains strength.
• Listen to Your Body: Stop any exercise that causes significant pain and consult your physical therapist for modifications.
• Follow Guidelines: Always follow the specific guidelines and recommendations provided by your physical therapist to avoid overexertion or injury.

These are guidelines to help you but remember…

Incorporating these home exercises into your rehabilitation routine after rotator cuff surgery is crucial for a successful recovery. They complement professional physical therapy, helping you regain shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. For personalized guidance and to ensure you’re performing the exercises correctly, always consult with your physical therapist. Stay committed to your rehab program to achieve the best possible outcome and return to your daily activities with confidence.

For more information on post-surgery rehabilitation or to schedule a consultation with our experienced physical therapists, please contact us today!