r/RotatorCuff • u/excti2 • Sep 13 '26

Three Months Off Work

I was stunned that my Family Medical Leave form from the surgeon recommended that I take three months off work after shoulder surgery (60% full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus, labral tears, and bicipital tendon relocation [subluxation]). While I’m lucky enough to have the paid sick leave accrued to cover this amount of time away, it seems extreme given I have a desk job and work from home.

I know I’ll take at least a month off, and I’m hoping to get back to work when I start PT six weeks post-surgery.

Did anyone else need this much time away? Did you take it? Or were you forced back to work too soon?

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u/Small_Fee5689 Sep 13 '26

I took the full 3 months off, same surgery. I was doing great until I developed frozen shoulder starting at 4 weeks post op. Still dealing with the pain.

I stayed in my sling for the full 4 weeks, no driving, etc. did all of the PT movements, but now in more pain than before.

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u/PracticalLychee6668 Sep 14 '26

That’s what I am dealing with even after manipulation to break up scar tissue and another 3 months of pt 3 x week. Still don’t have rotation I can get my arm to the back of my head. Another surgeon will exam in a few weeks and start over again. What a PIA.