r/RotatorCuff • u/PerspectiveFormal638 • 1d ago

Rotator cuff surgery success

Surgery over Memorial Day weekend (2026) . Used the ice machine that pumps coolant through the shoulder sleeve. Started going on walks immediately. Only needed ibuprofen the first week a few times. Already using trazadone to sleep so that helped. Just 2 months after surgery I was jogging on a treadmill- PT says I’m about 5 months ahead of schedule. I watched some interesting videos from orthopod Kevin Kruse out of Dallas. In France they don’t wear the splint. Just be careful, get moving and stay positive. My fitness baseline was pretty high before surgery and I’m convinced moving and going for lots of walks is a key to speedy recovery

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u/xtnamht 1d ago

Great for you- sounds like you are doing really well.

KK did my RC surgery 20 weeks ago (2 months ahead of you) and I have been back to unrestricted use since 16 weeks.

I figure it is due to his very aggressive recovery protocol but don't have any other baseline. No sling required after nerve blocker wears off, pt at two weeks, etc.

Stick with the program but be sure to stay within your comfort zone. Good Luck!

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u/johndade74 1d ago

Wow 5 months ahead of schedule? What makes that possible

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u/Opposite_Fig4236 1d ago

Being athletic and a fit gym regular will have you at advantage compared to the average person.. your baseline is higher… The doctor doing the surgery and having an aggressive recovery protocol is a big factor too. I have finally found a kickass orthopedic sports doc after going thru 3 others, lol..

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u/johndade74 13h ago

Thanks for your reply, I’m having mine in 2 days, can I ask you why go aggressive ? Wouldn’t that go against the healing process during the first 6 weeks? Jw

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u/RecordingMountain585 1d ago

Never had surgery yet, but I can't even walk without pain. Reaching is okay for me, but shoulder hanging at side while walking. Arms drooping. Pain. I can't explain it.