Rotator cuff tears are one of the leading causes of shoulder pain and disability, affecting up to 22% of adults and more than half of people over age 60. These injuries often make it difficult to lift, reach, or even sleep comfortably. While mild cases may respond to therapy or injections, larger or chronic tears often require surgical repair for lasting relief and restored mobility. For patients whose pain persists despite conservative care, rotator cuff surgery offers a long-term solution for restoring shoulder strength and function.
At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics in Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Johns, and Northside, FL, patients receive advanced, individualized care from a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. Dr. Swanson specializes in minimally invasive shoulder procedures and uses Enovis™ surgical technology for shoulder replacements to ensure precision, comfort, and lasting results.
Let’s walk through what to expect before, during, and after rotator cuff surgery, and how Dr. Swanson’s expertise helps ensure a smooth recovery.
Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears and When Surgery Is Needed
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow smooth arm movement. Tears occur when one or more of these tendons become frayed or detached from the bone. Common causes include sports injuries, repetitive overhead motion, or age-related wear.
While small or partial tears may respond to conservative treatment, such as physical therapy or orthobiologic injections, larger or full-thickness tears often require surgery for lasting relief. Signs that surgery may be necessary include:
- Persistent shoulder pain despite therapy or injections
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Limited range of motion
- Nighttime pain that disrupts sleep
During an evaluation, Dr. Swanson performs physical assessments, imaging tests (MRI or ultrasound), and diagnostic exams to confirm whether surgery is the best next step.
How to Prepare for Rotator Cuff Surgery
Preparation plays a major role in surgical success. Before surgery, Dr. Swanson provides each patient with personalized instructions and discusses what to expect.
Pre-Surgery Steps Include:
- Medical Evaluation: Reviewing overall health and imaging results to plan the most effective approach.
- Medication Review: Adjusting or pausing certain medications that may affect healing or anesthesia.
- Home Preparation: Setting up a comfortable recovery space with easy access to essentials, since arm mobility will be limited for several weeks.
- Arranging Support: Planning for someone to drive you home and assist with daily activities in the early recovery phase.
By addressing these details ahead of time, patients are better prepared both physically and mentally for surgery and rehabilitation.
What Happens During Rotator Cuff Surgery
Dr. Swanson performs arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a miniature camera to visualize the shoulder joint. This allows for precise tendon repair with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.
The Procedure Steps Typically Include:
- Anesthesia: The patient receives either general anesthesia or a regional nerve block for comfort.
- Arthroscopic Access: Dr. Swanson makes small incisions around the shoulder and inserts a thin camera (arthroscope) to project images onto a high-definition monitor.
- Tendon Repair: Using specialized instruments, he reattaches torn tendons to the bone with small sutures or anchors.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and a protective sling is applied to support healing.
For patients with advanced tears or significant joint damage, Dr. Swanson may recommend shoulder replacement surgery using Enovis™ Foundation® Shoulder System or RSP® Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis, designed for optimal fit and long-term durability.
Enovis™ ARVIS® technology provides 3D visualization during surgery, helping ensure precision alignment and a personalized approach for each shoulder.
Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery Time and What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery after surgery follows several stages, focusing on protection, mobility, and strengthening. Dr. Swanson provides each patient with a personalized rehabilitation plan and ongoing follow-up care.
Phase 1: Immobilization (0–4 Weeks)
Immediately after surgery, the arm is placed in a sling to protect the repair. You may experience mild discomfort or swelling, which can be managed with prescribed medications and cold therapy. It’s essential to keep the surgical area clean and follow all wound-care guidelines.
Phase 2: Early Rehabilitation (4–8 Weeks)
During this stage, passive range-of-motion exercises begin under the guidance of a physical therapist. The goal is to gently maintain flexibility without straining the repaired tendon.
Phase 3: Strength Restoration (8–16 Weeks)
Gradual strengthening exercises are introduced to rebuild muscle support around the shoulder joint. Dr. Swanson closely monitors progress and adjusts therapy as needed to prevent overuse or reinjury.
Phase 4: Functional Recovery (4–6 Months)
Most patients return to normal daily activities within three to six months, depending on their specific recovery from rotator cuff surgery timeline. Full strength recovery for athletes or heavy-labor workers may take slightly longer.
Rotator cuff surgery recovery time varies from patient to patient, but with proper care and consistent rehabilitation, long-term outcomes are highly successful.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Rotator Cuff Surgery Rehab
Physical therapy is essential for regaining mobility and preventing stiffness after surgery.
Dr. Swanson partners with highly trained physical therapists who design custom rehab programs that evolve through each healing stage.
Goals of Physical Therapy:
- Restore range of motion
- Rebuild shoulder and back muscle strength
- Improve posture and shoulder mechanics
- Prevent scar tissue and stiffness
Following the prescribed rotator cuff surgery rehab plan is key to long-term success and full functional recovery.
How Dr. Swanson Ensures a Smooth Surgical Experience
Dr. Swanson’s approach to rotator cuff surgery focuses on precision, safety, and patient comfort from consultation through recovery.
Key elements of his care include:
- Advanced Visualization: Uses high-definition arthroscopy for tendon repair and Enovis™ ARVIS® technology for precision implant placement during shoulder replacements.
- Minimally Invasive Technique: Smaller incisions reduce pain and speed up recovery.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Each surgery is tailored to the patient’s anatomy and activity level.
- Comprehensive Aftercare: From wound care to rehabilitation, follow-up is continuous and coordinated.
Dr. Swanson’s experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery helps patients of all ages regain confidence and function.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
- Follow post-operative instructions carefully, including sling use and wound care.
- Attend all physical therapy sessions and perform prescribed exercises at home.
- Avoid lifting, pushing, or overhead activities until cleared by your surgeon.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein and hydration to support tissue healing.
- Keep follow-up appointments to track healing and progress.
Consistency and patience are key. Healing takes time, but with guided rehabilitation and expert supervision, full function can often be restored.
Regain Shoulder Strength With Expert Surgical Care
Rotator cuff surgery is a life-changing step toward restoring motion and eliminating chronic pain. With Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s advanced expertise, Enovis™-powered precision, and a dedicated care team, patients across Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Johns, and Northside, FL achieve lasting results and renewed mobility.
Don’t let shoulder pain limit your life; expert help is closer than you think. Call (904) 634-0640 or schedule your appointment online today to begin your journey to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the rotator cuff surgery recovery time?
Recovery varies by tear size and progress. Most patients regain motion within three to six months.
Is rotator cuff surgery painful?
Mild soreness is normal, but pain is well-controlled with medication and guided rehab.
When can I drive after surgery?
You may drive once out of the sling, off narcotics, and cleared by your surgeon.
Can a rotator cuff heal without surgery?
Partial tears may improve with orthobiologic injections or therapy, but full tears typically require surgical repair.
What happens if I skip physical therapy?
Skipping therapy may delay healing and limit long-term shoulder mobility.
