Shoulder Recovery

Post-Surgical Shoulder Rehab

Protocol-driven recovery from rotator cuff repair, labral repair, and shoulder replacement.

Shoulder surgery rehab is highly protocol-specific. Rotator cuff repair, labral repair, total shoulder replacement, and reverse total shoulder each have distinct phased timelines that we follow precisely in coordination with your surgeon.

Understanding

What is Post-Surgical Shoulder?

Each shoulder procedure has its own healing biology and motion restrictions. Rotator cuff repair restricts active motion for 4–6 weeks while the repair heals; labral repair limits external rotation; replacement surgeries protect prosthetic positioning. We adhere strictly to surgeon protocols.

Our PT Approach

How we treat Post-Surgical Shoulder

Evidence-based treatment progressed at your pace, with the goal of durable improvement — not just short-term symptom relief.

Strict surgeon protocol adherence
Phased range-of-motion progression
Progressive scapular and rotator cuff strengthening
Activity-specific return-to-function programming
Long-term shoulder maintenance education

Typical Recovery Timeline

Rotator cuff repair: 4–6 months. Labral repair: 4–6 months. Total shoulder replacement: 3–4 months. Reverse total shoulder: 3–4 months with specific motion considerations.

Post-Surgical Shoulder — FAQs

When can I lift weights after rotator cuff repair?

Light functional resistance starts at 12–14 weeks. Progressive lifting builds from there. Heavy overhead lifting typically not before 6 months.

Get expert PT for Post-Surgical Shoulder

One-on-one care with a doctor of physical therapy. Same-week new patient slots typically available.