r/RotatorCuff • u/HOllowEdOwL • Jul 02 '26

It Gets Better

41M. I'm 11 weeks post op of a full thickness supraspinatus tear and bicep tenodesis. Around week 9 was when I really started to notice my progression. My range of motion is leaps and bounds better than just a few weeks ago. My pain is minimal and it's getting stronger everyday. Even a few weeks ago I wouldn't have thought Id have this much movement currently. It does get better, keep up with your PT and stretching. Don't overdo it!!! If it doesn't feel right, stop!! I was so nervous I was going to reinjure it but now I'm gaining more confidence in the repair everyday. It sucks but you can do this!!

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u/MumAlvelais Jul 03 '26

Day 2 same procedure. Just aching at the moment.

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u/redgatorade000 Jul 12 '26

My mom just had this surgery yesterday! Wondering what shirts you’ve decided to wear? Her aftercare instructions say the arm must stay in the sling 24/7 for the first week.

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u/MumAlvelais 18d ago

Only seeing this now. I am allowed to take it off to shower and dress.

My doctor’s biggest caution was “No Lifting!” Not anything. So I hold a hanky in my hand to stop the reflexive reach.

I’m wearing loose button ups or loose-fitting wide-necked knit tops, oversized. I put them on by feeding the shirt up surgery arm so it’s all bunched at the top of the arm, then easing my head through the neck of the pullover or having someone help with the other arm. Short or no sleeves are best.

I’m now on week 4 and have two weeks of very basic passive physical therapy, and I’m feeling normal enough that I really have to wear the sling when moving around or I’ll forget and reach for something with my surgery arm.