Author: Mongseyla Touch, DPT
Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common causes of shoulder pain, particularly in active adults and older populations. One of the most frequently torn tendons in the rotator cuff is the supraspinatus, which plays a major role in lifting the arm and stabilizing the shoulder.
When conservative treatment fails, a supraspinatus repair surgery is often performed. Postoperative rehabilitation is critical to a successful outcome. Below is a detailed timeline-based rehabilitation guide designed for patients and physical therapists to understand the progression of care.
Phase 1: Protection & Passive Range of Motion (0–6 Weeks Post-Op)
Goals:
- Protect the surgical repair
- Decrease pain and inflammation
- Begin gentle passive ROM (as cleared by surgeon)
Precautions:
- No active shoulder motion
- No lifting, pushing, or pulling
- Sling worn at all times (except hygiene/exercises)
Recommended Exercises:
- Pendulums (Codman exercises) – passive only
- Passive shoulder flexion (e.g., pulleys or therapist-assisted)
- Passive ER in scapular plane (limited to 30°–45° as prescribed)
- Elbow, wrist, hand ROM – keep joints mobile
Tips for Patients:
- Sleeping in a recliner or with a wedge may improve comfort.
- Ice regularly, especially after therapy.
Phase 2: Early Active Motion (6–12 Weeks Post-Op)
Goals:
- Restore active-assisted and active ROM
- Prevent stiffness
- Maintain integrity of the repair
Precautions:
- No resistance training
- Avoid painful arcs (typically 60°–120°)
- Gradual weaning off sling per MD instructions
Exercises:
- Active-assisted flexion and abduction (e.g., with stick, pulley, or wall walks)
- Supine active ROM (gravity-minimized)
- Scapular stabilization exercises
- Isometrics for biceps/triceps if allowed
PT Tip:
- Monitor for compensatory patterns like shoulder hiking.
- Assess for signs of frozen shoulder if motion stalls.
Phase 3: Strengthening Phase (12–16 Weeks Post-Op)
Goals:
- Improve strength and endurance
- Normalize scapulohumeral rhythm
- Return to functional activities
Precautions:
- Avoid aggressive overhead loading or jerky movements
Strengthening Exercises:
- Isometric to isotonic progression for rotator cuff (ER/IR with band)
- Scapular muscle training (serratus punches, rows, Ys/Ts)
- Closed-chain exercises (wall push-ups, quadruped weight shifts)
- Proprioception drills (ball on wall, body blade)
Home Advice:
- Consistency matters. Daily exercises at home improve outcomes.
- Avoid comparing progress to others — healing rates vary.
Phase 4: Advanced Strength & Return to Activity (16–24 Weeks+)
Goals:
- Full ROM
- Restore strength to 90%+ of uninvolved side
- Return to work/sport demands
Advanced Exercises:
- Overhead strengthening (e.g., dumbbell shoulder press with progression)
- Functional tasks (lifting, carrying, sports-specific drills)
- Plyometric or dynamic stabilization if returning to sport
Return to:
- Desk job: ~6 weeks
- Light labor work: ~3 months
- Overhead sports/heavy labor: 5–6+ months (with MD clearance)
Final Thoughts
Recovery after a supraspinatus repair is not a race—it’s a carefully structured journey. The surgery repairs the tissue, but rehab rebuilds function.
✔️ Key Takeaways:
- Follow surgeon guidelines—protocols may vary.
- Don’t rush into strength training.
- Communicate openly with your PT and MD if something feels wrong.
- Return to sport or work only after meeting functional milestones.
If you’re a patient recovering from a supraspinatus tear or a PT guiding someone through it, stay consistent, stay informed, and stay patient.
Disclaimer:
This post is for educational purposes and not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow your surgeon’s specific protocol.
Recommended Recovery Tools
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our blog and allows us to continue creating helpful content for patients and physical therapists. Thank you!
🧊 Cold Therapy / Ice Packs
- Reusable Gel Ice Pack for Shoulder – Adjustable straps, perfect for post-op swelling
👉 https://amzn.to/3UejUc8
🏋️ Home Exercise Equipment
- Shoulder Pulley with Door Anchor – Alternative with easy installation
👉https://amzn.to/41roV4Y
🪑 Comfort & Support
- Wedge Pillow for Sleeping Upright – Helps reduce nighttime discomfort
👉https://amzn.to/4mmaDuG
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