Shoulder Surgery
Full shoulder function after surgery
What is this surgery?
Shoulder surgeries include various procedures: rotator cuff reconstruction (for supraspinatus tears), Bankart repair (for shoulder instability and dislocation), and shoulder replacement (for advanced arthritis or complex fractures). The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body, making rehabilitation particularly demanding: the right balance between protection and mobilisation must always be maintained.
Why is rehabilitation essential?
- Strictly respect the immobilisation phase (graft protection)
- Shoulder capsule mobilisation without compromising the repair
- Progressive rotator cuff strengthening
- Scapular training for shoulder stability
- Restore full elevation for daily activities (lifting, carrying)
Treatment objectives
- Full active range of motion (180° elevation)
- Rotator cuff strength ≥ opposite side
- Pain-free carrying of objects
- Driving and overhead work possible
- Return to sport (with surgeon's clearance)
What to expect?
Weeks 1–4: Immobilisation Phase
The shoulder is fixed in a sling. The aim is purely pain reduction and preventing muscle loss. Pendulum exercises and finger exercises are possible. The therapist works within the surgical protocol.
Weeks 5–8: Passive Mobilisation
The therapist mobilises the shoulder passively. You become increasingly active. The sling is usually removed after 4–6 weeks. Pain management and scar mobilisation are important.
Weeks 9–16: Strengthening and Return
Active mobilisation and targeted rotator cuff strengthening. Shoulder-specific exercises (rowing, shoulder press with light load). Return to sport is individual based on surgeon's clearance and test criteria.
Our treatment programme
Phase 1 — Weeks 1–4
- Respect immobilisation protocol
- Pendulum exercises (passive)
- Finger flexion/extension
- Isometric exercises
Phase 2 — Weeks 5–8
- Active-assisted elevation
- Manual techniques (capsular mobilisation)
- Rotator cuff strengthening
- Restore daily activities
Phase 3 — Weeks 9–16
- Target full range of motion
- Maximum strengthening
- Proprioceptive exercises
- Sport (with surgeon's clearance)
Risks without structured rehabilitation
- Rotator cuff re-rupture (up to 40% without protocol)
- Frozen shoulder from excessive immobilisation
- Chronic instability from premature loading
- Loss of overhead function for daily life
Ready for your rehabilitation?
Book an initial assessment — we create your personalised programme.