Rotator Cuff Home Rehabilitation Exercises

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Introduction

Exercises are a very important part of treatment for a rotator cuff disorder. If pain, weakness, and stiffness in your shoulder are related to problems with your rotator cuff, a health professional will usually first recommend nonsurgical treatment. Exercises, combined with periods of rest, ice, and heat and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), resolve most rotator cuff problems. If the pain in or function of your shoulder does not improve with these methods, surgery or other treatment may be considered.

Exercises also play a role when your rotator cuff is treated surgically. You will work with your health professional and physical therapist to plan an exercise program that helps you regain as much strength and flexibility in your shoulder as possible.

Resting your shoulder is an important part of treatment. Your doctor may recommend that you do not begin certain exercises for 1 to 2 weeks, until the swelling around your shoulder goes down. This does not mean that you cannot move the shoulder at all but that you need to avoid certain motions and everyday activities that aggravate your problems, such as reaching into the backseat of your car or stretches that pull your arms toward your back. Be careful when you begin your exercises. Slow down or stop activity if necessary.

 What exercises help with rotator cuff disorders?

 Why do I need to do exercises for rotator cuff disorders?

 How do I exercise for rotator cuff disorders?

 Where can I learn more about exercises to help rotator cuff disorders?

For more information on shoulder pain and rotator cuff disorders, see:

• Shoulder Problems and Injuries.
• Rotator Cuff Disorders.

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Last updated:	February 10, 2006
Author:	Lila Havens
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Kathie Hummel-Berry, PT, PhD - Physical Therapy
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Michele Cronen