Etiology — what causes it
Post-surgical repair of a rotator cuff tear, typically performed for symptomatic tears in patients who failed conservative care or for younger patients with traumatic tears. Healing biology requires protection.
Epidemiology — who gets it
Common orthopedic procedure. Re-tear rates vary by tear size, biology, and protocol adherence — larger tears have higher re-tear rates.
Clinical signs
Tracked progress includes range progression per protocol, scapular and deltoid control, and progressive strength.
Symptoms
Early post-op pain and stiffness; progressive return of range and strength over 4–6 months.
Best evidence for chiropractic treatment
MOON Shoulder Group protocols (Kuhn et al., J Shoulder Elbow Surg) and surgeon-specific timelines guide rehab. Generally — sling protection 4–6 weeks, passive range early, active range from 6 weeks, progressive strength from 12 weeks, sport-specific from 4–6 months. Criteria-based progression rather than purely time-based.
When to seek emergency care
Some symptoms need urgent medical attention — not a chiropractic visit. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for: progressive limb weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, saddle anesthesia (numbness in the groin/inner thighs), severe unrelenting pain unrelieved by position, signs of fracture after significant trauma, chest pain, stroke-like symptoms (face drooping, arm weakness, speech changes), or any rapidly worsening or unusual symptom.
Bottom line
Cuff repair rehab is conservative early to protect biological healing, then progressive. Following the protocol closely is key — early aggressive loading risks re-tear.