Range of Motion (ROM)
- Sling Usage: Wear your sling for 4 weeks; 6 weeks for large cuff tears.
- Passive ROM: Begin at 4 weeks.
- Active ROM: Start at 7 weeks.
- Light Strength: Begin light strengthening exercises at 10 weeks.
Sling and Movement
- Wear your sling at all times for the first 4 weeks, including while sleeping. Only remove it to shower and to perform prescribed range of motion exercises for your elbow and passive shoulder exercises after your first postoperative visit.
Dressing and Bandages
- Keep your surgical dressing clean and dry. Remove it 1-2 days after surgery and cover incisions with band-aids.
- You may shower after removing the dressing but avoid soaking the incisions until they are checked at your first postoperative visit.
Temperature Monitoring
- An elevated temperature up to 101°F in the first 2-3 days is normal. Contact your doctor if it exceeds this or if there is increased redness or drainage at the incision sites.
Medications
- Pain Management: Begin with Tylenol, Naprosyn, and Aspirin immediately after surgery.
- Tylenol: 1 gram every 8 hours.
- Naprosyn: 500 mg twice daily.
- Aspirin: 81 mg twice daily, starting the evening after surgery.
- Oxycodone: 5 mg as needed for pain every 4-8 hours. Wean off by taking half a tab every 8-12 hours after the first week and 1 hour before physical therapy if needed.
Physical Activity
- Flex and extend your elbow 3 to 4 times a day to prevent stiffness. Avoid moving your elbow away from your body to protect the repair.
Q: How long do I need to wear the sling after rotator cuff repair?
A: Wear your sling constantly for the first 4 weeks after surgery, and extend to 6 weeks for large cuff tears.
Q: When can I start range of motion exercises?
A: Begin passive range of motion exercises at 4 weeks and active range of motion at 7 weeks post-surgery.
Q: What is the recommended pain management regimen?
A: Start with Tylenol, Naprosyn, and Aspirin immediately after surgery. Use Oxycodone as needed for pain, especially before physical therapy sessions, and aim to wean off it progressively.
Q: When can I resume light strength exercises?
A: Light strengthening exercises can start at 10 weeks post-surgery, following clearance from your healthcare provider.