Rotator cuff repair rehabilitation takes an average of four to six months, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Exercises involve three stages of therapy, ranging from passive range of motion exercises to the more progressive involving advanced strengthening and stretching maneuvers, according to Shoulder Doc. Not all exercises may be suitable for your individual situation. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Assisted Prone Stretch
Stretch your rotator cuff by doing a Level 1 exercise known as a sleeper stretch, according to Shoulder Doc. Lie on your affected side on your bed or other comfortable surface. Slowly slide your affected arm until it is parallel to your collarbone, about 90 degrees. Bend your affected-side elbow to a 90-degree angle. Gently bend your knees to bring your legs to a supporting position. Take your unaffected hand and grab your affected-side arm just below the wrist. Slowly and gently push your affected-side forearm down toward the surface. Keep your elbow bent to 90 degrees. Do not allow your upper arm to lose its collar bone level positioning. Do not roll backward onto your shoulder blade. Decrease your tendency to move your upper body by placing a rolled-up towel between your upper arm and rib cage, if desired. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Release the stretch. Gently and slowly press your affected arm into your unaffected-side hand. Hold this strengthening maneuver for six seconds. Return your arm to the original position. Relax for 30 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times. Decrease your tendency to move your upper body by placing a rolled-up towel between your upper arm and rib cage.
Kneeling Strengthener
Strengthen your shoulder muscles by doing another Level 1 exercise called the prayer position, according to Shoulder Doc. Get your body into a kneeling posture on a firm surface. Turn your feet so your heels are touching your butt. Rest your body weight on your heels. Place your hands, palms open, alongside each knee. Slowly move your body forward while transferring your weight onto your hands. Keep your elbows straight. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Slowly return your body to the original position. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Seated Isometrics
Strengthen your rotator cuff muscles by doing a Level 2, intermediate-level, exercise known as sitting abduction, according to Shoulder Doc. Sit upright in a firm chair. Place a rolled-up towel between your upper body and rib cage. Straighten your injured arm, keeping your elbow at your side. Place your unaffected-side hand onto your affected-side upper arm. Slowly push your injured arm into your unaffected-side hand. Hold the tension for six seconds. Slowly release the tension. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Band Stretching
Strengthen your rotator cuff muscles by using an exercise band. Do a Level 3 exercise called a long lever, according to Shoulder Doc. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart or sit upright in a firm chair. Grab an exercise band with both hands. Bend your elbows to a 90-degree angle. Slowly stretch the band by moving your forearms out to the sides. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Move your arms over your head and stretch them to the side. Keep your elbows straight. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Slowly return your arms to the original position. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
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