Rehabilitation after a shoulder injury is crucial for recovery and involves several distinct phases. Each phase requires close collaboration with healthcare practitioners to ensure effective healing and return to function.
Phase 1: Immediate Postoperative Phase (Weeks 0-6)
Goals:
- Protect the surgical repair
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Initiate passive range of motion (ROM)
Practitioner Involvement:
- Immobilization: Your healthcare provider will likely prescribe a sling or brace to protect the shoulder.
- Pain Management: Practitioners can recommend medications or modalities like ice therapy to help manage pain and swelling.
- Initial Exercises: A physical therapist will guide you through gentle passive ROM exercises to prevent stiffness while ensuring safety.
Phase 2: Intermediate Phase (Weeks 7-11)
Goals:
- Advance shoulder mobility
- Initiate active assistive range of motion (AAROM) exercises
Practitioner Involvement:
- Physical Therapy Sessions: Regular visits with a physical therapist will focus on active assistive exercises, using tools like pulleys or sticks to help you regain movement.
- Strengthening Exercises: Your therapist will introduce isometric exercises for rotator cuff muscles, monitoring your progress to avoid pain or strain.
Phase 3: Advanced Strengthening Phase (Weeks 12-20)
Goals:
- Improve strength, power, and endurance
- Enhance dynamic stability of the shoulder
Practitioner Involvement:
- Strengthening Program: A physical therapist will develop a personalized isotonic strengthening program focusing on rotator cuff and scapular muscles.
- Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments will ensure you are meeting specific criteria before advancing to more challenging exercises, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Phase 4: Return to Activity Phase (20+ Weeks)
Goals:
- Prepare for a gradual return to sport or daily activities
- Maintain achieved strength and flexibility
Practitioner Involvement:
- Functional Training: Your healthcare team will design sport-specific drills and activities that mimic the demands of your daily life or athletic pursuits.
- Ongoing Evaluation: Continuous assessment by your practitioners ensures you are ready for a safe return to activities, adjusting your rehabilitation plan as needed.
If you struggle with shoulder pain or any other injuries, RevitaMax Rehab and Wellness is here to help. In RevitaMax, we focus on personalized rehabilitation programs designed to address your unique challenges and promote effective recovery. Our dedicated team of professionals will work closely with you to develop a tailored plan that ensures optimal healing and long-term wellness.
Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Give us a call at (416) 360-8326 or book at Revitamax Rehab & Wellness to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, pain-free life.
Address: 680 Rexdale Blvd Unit 11, Etobicoke, ON M9W 0B5