Rotator cuff surgery is a big step toward healing a painful shoulder, but recovery is a journey. If you’re wondering what life will look like after surgery, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down week by week so you know exactly what to expect.

What to Expect After Rotator Cuff Surgery
Week 1: Taking It Easy
Welcome to the start of your recovery! The first week is all about rest, pain management, and getting used to your new reality—your arm in a sling.
What You’ll Experience:
- Pain & Swelling: This is when your shoulder will be the most sore, but pain meds and ice packs will be your best friends.
- Limited Movement: Your arm will be immobilized in a sling to protect the repair.
- Sleep Struggles: Sleeping upright in a recliner or propped with pillows is usually the most comfortable option.
What You Can Do:
- Ice your shoulder 4-5 times a day for 15-20 minutes.
- Stick to your pain medication schedule.
- Wear your sling at all times (yes, even while sleeping!).
- Start small movements like wiggling your fingers and bending your elbow (if allowed by your doctor).
- Eat healthy foods that promote healing, like lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
Week 2: Adjusting to the Sling Life
By now, you might be feeling a little more like yourself, but your shoulder is still very fragile.
What You’ll Experience:
- Less Pain: Most people start feeling a decrease in sharp pain, though aches and stiffness are still present.
- Sling Frustration: It’s getting annoying, but hang in there—your shoulder needs it!
- Energy Levels: You might feel exhausted. Healing takes a lot of energy, so rest is crucial.
What You Can Do:
- Continue icing and managing pain.
- Start passive movements if your doctor recommends it (a physical therapist may guide you through gentle arm motions).
- Keep wearing your sling—you’re not done with it yet!
- Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition to support tissue repair.
- Avoid using your arm for any weight-bearing activities, no matter how tempting.
Weeks 3-4: Starting Gentle Movements
This is when things start to get interesting. You’re still in your sling, but physical therapy (PT) might begin!
What You’ll Experience:
- More Mobility: You might start gentle passive movements with the help of your therapist.
- Less Swelling & Bruising: The worst of it is usually behind you.
- Some Stiffness: Your shoulder may feel tight since it hasn’t moved much.
- Better Sleep: Your body is adjusting to sleeping in a more comfortable position.
What You Can Do:
- Start passive range of motion exercises (as directed by your PT).
- Keep your arm supported at all times.
- Continue icing if you experience swelling after activity.
- Stay consistent with pain management to avoid setbacks.
- Listen to your body—don’t rush the recovery process.
Weeks 5-6: Saying Goodbye to the Sling!
This is a big milestone—many people get the green light to ditch the sling around this time (check with your surgeon first!).
What You’ll Experience:
- Freedom! Losing the sling feels great but also scary. Your arm might feel weak and unsteady.
- More PT Exercises: You’ll start active-assisted movements, meaning your therapist will help you move your arm.
- Soreness: The shoulder is still healing, and using it more might lead to soreness.
- Improved Daily Activities: Simple tasks like dressing yourself become easier.
What You Can Do:
- Begin gentle stretching and strengthening exercises (guided by your PT).
- Avoid lifting anything heavier than a coffee cup.
- Be patient—it’s still early in the process!
- Follow a structured PT plan to avoid re-injury.
- Continue using good posture to minimize strain on your shoulder.
Weeks 7-12: Gaining Strength & Range of Motion
Now the real work begins. You’ll transition from passive movements to actively using your arm.
What You’ll Experience:
- More Independence: Daily tasks become easier.
- Stronger Shoulder: You’ll slowly build strength, though it’s not 100% yet.
- Occasional Discomfort: It’s normal to feel soreness as you work your muscles.
- More Engagement in Life: You can start participating in light activities again.
What You Can Do:
- Increase your range of motion with PT exercises.
- Start light resistance exercises (no weights yet!).
- Continue avoiding heavy lifting and overhead motions.
- Incorporate light cardio like walking to keep circulation moving.
- Be mindful of pain—push yourself but don’t overdo it.
Months 3-6: Back to Normal (Almost!)
By now, you’re feeling much better, and your shoulder is getting stronger.
What You’ll Experience:
- Increased Strength & Motion: Most people regain a good range of motion around this time.
- Less Pain: You may still have occasional soreness, especially after activity.
- More Normal Activities: Light household tasks and non-impact exercises (like stationary biking) are possible.
- Better Endurance: Daily movements feel smoother and easier.
What You Can Do:
- Continue physical therapy and strengthening exercises.
- Avoid lifting anything too heavy—your shoulder is still healing!
- Be mindful of overhead movements; ease into them slowly.
- Consider massage or myofascial release therapy to help with tightness.
6+ Months: Full Recovery & Returning to Sports
Your shoulder is strong, and you’re finally getting back to all the activities you love.
What You’ll Experience:
- Confidence in Movement: You’re using your arm more naturally.
- Full Strength (Almost!): Some people take up to a year for full strength to return.
- Occasional Discomfort: It’s rare, but some movements may still feel tight.
What You Can Do:
- Return to sports and more intense activities (if cleared by your doctor and PT).
- Keep strengthening your shoulder to prevent future injuries.
- Celebrate—you made it through!
- Continue stretching and mobility exercises to keep your range of motion.
- Be proactive—schedule follow-ups if anything feels off.
Final Thoughts: Healing Takes Time
Rotator cuff surgery recovery isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. But with patience, persistence, and a good physical therapy plan, you’ll get there! Stick with your rehab program, listen to your body, and celebrate every small victory along the way.
If you have any questions or need expert guidance, the team at Pick PT is here to help. We’ll get you moving again—one step at a time!
Rexburg
160 W 2nd S #1
Rexburg, ID 83440
Mon & Wed 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm
Friday 7am-6pm
Rigby
711 Rigby Lake Dr Suite 102
Rigby, ID 83442
Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm
Idaho Falls
2277 E Lincoln Rd
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm
921 S Utah Ave
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-6pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm
3155 Channing Way D
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-6pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm