Rehabilitation protocol
Rotator Cuff Repair (Small/Medium) Rehabilitation Protocol
The current rehabilitation protocol after a primary small or medium rotator cuff repair. Your surgeon and physical therapist will tailor it to you — always follow the individualized plan they give you, and use only the protocol your surgical team selected.
Who this protocol is for
Applies to primary arthroscopic small and medium rotator cuff repairs. The surgeon determines the tear classification and selects the appropriate protocol, and patients should use only the protocol identified by their surgical team. A separate protocol applies to massive repairs, where early protection differs.
This is the small/medium rotator cuff repair protocol
- Applies to primary arthroscopic small and medium rotator cuff repairs.
- A separate, more protective protocol applies to massive repairs, where early protection differs.
- Your surgical team determines the tear classification and selects the protocol — use only the one you are given.
Concurrent procedures and revision repairs
When biceps tenodesis or subacromial decompression is performed with rotator cuff repair, rehabilitation follows the applicable rotator cuff repair protocol unless the surgeon provides different restrictions. For a revision repair, the surgeon selects the protocol based on the individual revision.
How rehabilitation is generally structured
Rehabilitation after this procedure is usually organized into progressive phases. The phases below describe the general shape only — specific exercises, precautions, and timelines are individual and are set by your surgeon and physical therapist.
Period of protection
The earliest period after surgery, focused on protecting the repair while the tendon heals to the bone. Larger or more complex repairs are generally protected longer.
Controlled motion
Gradually restoring shoulder motion within the limits your surgeon sets.
Strengthening
Progressively rebuilding strength and control as healing allows.
Return to activity
A gradual, criteria-based progression back toward activity, decided with your surgeon and physical therapist.
This overview describes the general structure of rehabilitation only. It does not replace the specific instructions of your own surgeon and physical therapist, whose guidance always takes precedence. Timelines and precautions are individual and are set for you at your appointments. Use only the protocol your surgical team selected for you.