Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff repair recovery follows a strict phased timeline (per your surgeon's protocol). In general, sling protection in weeks 1–4, active-assisted range of motion (AAROM) in weeks 4–8, and progressive strengthening past 8 weeks. EquipCore's table slide board, resistance tubes, and stability ball cover the surfaces and drills surgeons typically clear at each phase.

Curated by Joe Armeli, DPT

Rotator Cuff Repair
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What is Rotator Cuff Repair?

Rotator cuff repair (RCR) is surgery to reattach a torn rotator-cuff tendon to the head of the humerus, most often arthroscopically. The recovery is unusually patient-led because pushing too fast can re-tear the repair. Weeks 1–4 are pure protection: sling, no active shoulder movement. Weeks 4–8 introduce AAROM like table slides — the surgeon-cleared phase where a smooth table-slide surface matters. After week 8, light-resistance external rotation and scapular strengthening begin with resistance tubes. The tools above match each phase.

Common questions

What equipment do I need for rotator cuff recovery?

The AAROM phase (weeks 4–8) typically calls for a smooth-surface slide board for table slides, and a long pulley for assisted overhead motion. The strengthening phase (week 8+) adds light resistance tubes for external rotation, scapular retraction, and internal rotation drills. Also your PT may prescribe a ball-on-the-wall exercise as a way to strengthen the cuff — perfect for a Pilates ball.

What are AAROM exercises for rotator cuff?

Active-assisted range of motion (AAROM) means you move the shoulder with help from your other arm, gravity, or a smooth surface — never under its own muscle power. Common drills are table slides (forward and sideways), wand-assisted flexion, and pulley-assisted elevation. Most surgeons clear AAROM around 4–6 weeks post-op.

When can I start lifting after rotator cuff surgery?

Most surgeons clear light functional lifting (1–2 lb) at 8–10 weeks post-op, progressive resistance band work at 10–12 weeks, and heavier strengthening at 12–16 weeks. Full return to overhead activity or sport usually takes 4–6 months. Always follow your surgeon's specific clearance — repair size and tendon quality vary.

What is a shoulder slide board used for?

A shoulder slide board (the same low-friction board PTs use for knee heel slides) doubles as a table slide board during the AAROM rotator cuff phase. Sit at a table with a towel under your hand and slide your hand forward (flexion) or sideways (abduction), letting the surface glide so the shoulder moves friction-free without firing the repaired tendon.

Are resistance bands safe after rotator cuff surgery?

Light resistance bands or tubes are typically safe at 8–12 weeks post-op for cuff strengthening — external rotation, internal rotation, scapular retraction — once the surgeon clears active strengthening. Heavy bands and overhead pulls come later (12–16 weeks). Never start band work before written surgeon clearance.

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