Question - Rotator Cuff Recovery

by Ron
(San Antonio, Texas)

I had surgery July 5, 2007 for a full thickness repair of the superaspinatus and am starting to lift weights again. I am having extreme difficulty, even with light weights, doing dumbell bench presses and lateral raises.

Is this normal?

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Question - Rotator Cuff Recovery

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May 20, 2008
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Pain, weakness, or both?
by: Bart - SII

Are you having pain with these exercises, or is weakness the primary problem you are having?

If it is pain, then it is probably not normal and you either need to adjust your form, or talk to your therapist for some suggestions as to why you are having pain and what you can do about it.

If it is weakness, then yes, it is fairly normal. It takes a very long time to get back to "normal" after a rotator cuff surgery. This is most noticeable with weight lifting. Your body is able to compensate some with daily activities, but isolated weight exercises can really show your weakness.

If it is weakness, then it should continue to get better over time...just focus on a gradual progression of your exercises and realize that it takes a long time to build your strength back up.

If it is pain, talk to your PT or doctor.

Hope this helps - comment back if you have other questions.