Post Operative Information

Rotator cuff repair - Large

•  After surgery you will waken with your arm in a sling. This should be worn as instructed for 6 weeks
• You will see the physiotherapist prior to your discharge. They will show you how to release your arm from the sling and do specific exercises with the arm. They will also outline the safe zone of movement which should be observed for the first 4 weeks
• You will be prescribed painkillers to go home with. These should be taken regularly as required.
• You will have a follow-up appointment at 2 weeks
• The stitches will be trimmed prior to seeing Mr Griffiths
• An outpatient physiotherapy review will be arranged usually 2-3 weeks after the operation
• At six weeks you should expect to begin strengthening the shoulder
• You should expect significant recovery from 6-12 weeks but will continue to recover for 9 months

Return to Functional Activities

Driving                            6-8 weeks recommend

Swimming                        12 weeks

Golf                                  3 months

Lifting                              3 months +

Work                               Sedentary - once out of sling

                                         Manual – as guided by surgeon