Post-Surgical Rehab
Rotator cuff repair rehab is conservative early and progressive later. The sling phase protects the repair while we maintain motion in adjacent joints. Strength work starts after the sling comes off, usually around week 6–8. Full return takes 4–6 months for most patients.
Weeks 0–6
Passive range of motion only, scapular and cervical mobility, sling for most patients
Weeks 6–12
Active-assisted then active range of motion, gentle strengthening initiation, scapular control
Weeks 12–20
Rotator cuff and scapular strengthening, overhead reach, light functional loading
Months 5–6+
Sport- or job-specific demands, full overhead loading, return to higher-level activity
Rotator cuff repairs need protected healing — pushing too fast into active range of motion or strengthening is the most common reason for re-tears. We follow your surgeon's specific protocol for tear size, repair technique, and tissue quality. When in doubt, we go slower.
Sixty-minute evaluation. We review your op report, check incision healing, measure available motion (passive in the early phase), and screen the cervical spine, scapula, and opposite shoulder. First treatment same visit.
Early phase: passive range of motion, scapular mobility, cervical work to address compensation patterns, posture and sling-fit guidance. Mid phase: gradual active range of motion, isometric rotator cuff work. Late phase: progressive strengthening, scapular stability work, return-to-task drills.
We work with most commercial insurance, Medicare, and Tricare for rotator cuff rehab. Self-pay $150. Clinic and in-home.
Same-week evaluations at Capitol Hill, Bethesda, and in-home throughout the DMV.
Book a Shoulder Rehab EvalSurgeon-dependent — usually 4–6 weeks. We follow your surgeon's specific instructions.
Most patients tolerate same-side sleeping around weeks 6–10 — earlier on the opposite side. We'll give you positioning strategies for the early phase.
Gentle overhead motion returns around weeks 8–12. Loaded overhead lifting typically waits until months 4–6, depending on the repair and your job or sport demands.
Most patients regain functional range. Some mild deficits are common, particularly internal rotation behind the back. Strength almost always lags motion by several weeks.