Post Rotator Cuff Arthroscopy Surgery, rehabilitation is crucial for recovery and to restore shoulder function. Here's a typical rehabilitation plan and the reasons why each step is important:
Immediate Post-Operative Phase (0-6 weeks)
Activities
- Immobilisation: Using a sling to protect the repair and reduce shoulder movement.
- Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Gentle movements performed by a therapist or with the help of the other arm to prevent stiffness.
Importance
- Protects the Repair: Immobilization ensures the surgical repair is not stressed.
- Prevents Stiffness: Gentle movements help maintain flexibility and prevent the shoulder from becoming overly stiff.
Early Recovery Phase (6-12 weeks)
Activities
- Active-Assisted Range of Motion (AAROM): Begin using the muscles to move the arm with some assistance.
- Gradual Introduction of Active Range of Motion (AROM): Slowly start moving the arm without assistance.
Importance
- Promotes Healing: Controlled movements encourage proper healing and prevent muscle atrophy.
- Restores Movement: Helps to gradually regain the shoulder's range of motion without overloading it.
Intermediate Recovery Phase (12-16 weeks)
Activities
- Strengthening Exercises: Begin with light resistance exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles.
- Functional Activities: Incorporate activities that mimic daily tasks to improve functional use of the shoulder.
Importance
- Rebuilds Strength Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder is crucial for joint stability.
- Improves Function Helps the patient return to normal daily activities and prevents future injuries.
Advanced Recovery Phase (16-24 weeks)
Activities
- Progressive Strength Training Increase resistance and incorporate more complex exercises.
- Endurance Training Focus on improving muscle endurance and overall shoulder function.
Importance
- Enhances Stability: Stronger muscles provide better support for the shoulder joint.
- Prepares for Return to Sport/Work: Ensures the shoulder is capable of handling the demands of sports or work-related activities.
Return to Activity Phase (6-12 months)
Activities
- Sport-Specific Drills For athletes, this includes drills and movements specific to their sport.
- Work-Related Tasks: For workers, this includes tasks they perform regularly at work.
Importance
- Full Recovery Ensures the shoulder can handle high-level activities without risk of re-injury.
- Optimizes Performance: Tailored exercises help return to pre-injury performance levels.
Importance of Rehabilitation
- Prevents Complications: Reduces the risk of stiffness, muscle atrophy, and improper healing.
- Restores Function: Helps regain full use of the shoulder, essential for everyday activities and quality of life.
- Improves Outcomes: A structured rehab program leads to better long-term outcomes and reduces the likelihood of re-injury.
- Pain Management: Proper rehabilitation helps manage post-operative pain through controlled exercises and gradual progress.
Overall, rehabilitation after rotator cuff arthroscopy is essential for a successful recovery, ensuring the shoulder heals properly, regains strength and flexibility, and returns to its full functional capacity. If you are seeking post-surgery support or rehabilitation, connect with us at Sarvodaya Hospital, Sec 8, Faridabad. Our state-of-the-art Physiotherapy Centre is backed by a team of highly experienced physiotherapists and modern technologies and modalities for complete physiotherapy and rehabilitation of patients post surgery, accident cases and more.
