It can take six months before patients can elevate their arms above their shoulders with comfort and efficiency. Initial rehabilitation consists of assisted elevation and rotation exercises. When full, active motion begins depends on the size of the tear and the stability of the repair, and the combined judgment of the surgeon and physical therapist. Prolonged rehabilitation emphasizing range of motion and strengthening exercises should continue for two years. The success of rotator cuff repair depends on both the size and the location of the tear.
Impingement syndrome is one of the most common disorders of the shoulder.
It can occur in both professional and recreational athletes and in manual laborers who must work with their arms overhead. Shoulder impingement is caused by repetitive use of the arm in an overhead position. When the arm is raised, the rotator cuff tendons are pushed against the bottom of the acromion. The resulting trauma causes soft-tissue inflammation and degeneration. Swelling of this tissue from overuse of the shoulder most commonly causes impingement.