How do you rehab an AC decompression and rotator cuff repair?!
Question:
How do you rehab an AC decompression and rotator cuff repair?
After getting unreal range of motion, can't tolerate the pain of building back the muscles that have atrophied in BOTH arms.
I am doing both pilates on a reformer 3-4 hours a week and Bikram yoga 90 minutes a day. Can't lower arms without griping pain. Who knows? I've worked so hard for 10 months post op, now what? Help!
Answers:
You may need to have the integrity of the cuff muscles checked again, especially if you are losing control of your surgical arm while lowering it. However, it sometimes takes a good bit of time to allow your body to heal. Make sure the program you are performing on a regular basis is not irritating the cuff, leading to a tendonitis. "No pain, no gain," isn't always the right motto to use. More specific stretching and strengthening may be indicated for the shoulder and scapular (shoulder blade) muscles. Perform doorway stretches, wall slides, and posterior capsule stretches (pulling surgical arm across toward other shoulder to tolerance) 30 seconds in duration/ 3 reps per session. Rows and lat pulldowns (in front...not behind head) should be performed at least 3-4 times per week at a lighter weight, probably 20-30 reps each. Beyond this advice, I'd get in to see a physical therapist for a more specific program. Hope this helps! Good luck!