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Rotator Cuff

2-Week Rehabilitation Program Post-Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment for Shoulder Rotator Cuff

This program focuses on gradual healing, regaining mobility, and rebuilding strength while respecting tissue healing post-PRP treatment.

 

Week 1: Initial Recovery and Gentle Mobility

Goals:

  • Minimize inflammation

  • Restore passive and active range of motion (ROM)

  • Protect the healing tissue

Day 1–3: Rest and Passive Care

  • Activity:

    • Rest the shoulder; avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling movements.

    • Use a sling if recommended by your doctor but avoid prolonged immobilization.

  • Pain Management:

    • Apply ice packs (15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily) to manage pain and inflammation.

    • Gentle soft tissue massage around the shoulder to promote circulation (avoid the injection site).

  • Passive Range of Motion (PROM):

    • Pendulum Swings: Lean forward slightly, letting your arm hang loosely, and gently swing it in small circles or side-to-side. (2–3 sets of 10 swings)

Day 4–7: Gentle Mobility and Isometric Activation

  • Mobility Exercises:

    • Table Slides: Sit or stand at a table. Place a cloth or towel under your hand and slide it forward and back gently to improve shoulder flexion. (10 reps, 3 sets)

    • External Rotation Stretch: Use a light resistance band or no weight to gently rotate your arm outward while keeping the elbow close to your body. (5 reps, 3 sets)

  • Isometric Strengthening:

    • Isometric Shoulder External Rotation: Stand next to a wall and press the back of your hand against it gently without moving your shoulder. (Hold for 5–10 seconds, 5 reps)

    • Isometric Shoulder Internal Rotation: Press the palm of your hand against a wall or doorframe without moving the shoulder. (Hold for 5–10 seconds, 5 reps)

  • Postural Training:

    • Practice standing and sitting with proper posture to reduce strain on the shoulder and rotator cuff muscles.

 

Week 2: Progression to Strength and Functional Movements

Goals:

  • Improve strength and stability

  • Regain active range of motion

  • Prepare for functional movements

Day 8–10: Strengthening and Active Mobility

  • Active Range of Motion (AROM):

    • Wall Crawls: Use your fingers to “crawl” up a wall, reaching as high as comfortable. Slowly lower the arm back down. (10 reps, 3 sets)

    • Towel Stretch: Hold a towel behind your back with one hand overhead and the other behind your back. Gently pull the towel to stretch the shoulder. (Hold for 15 seconds, 3 reps)

  • Strengthening:

    • Theraband Rows: Attach a resistance band to a stable surface at chest height. Pull the band toward your body, keeping your elbow close to your side. (10 reps, 3 sets)

    • Scapular Retraction: Squeeze your shoulder blades together gently while keeping the shoulders relaxed. (10 reps, 3 sets)

  • Stability Training:

    • Side-Lying External Rotation: Lie on your side with the affected arm on top, elbow bent to 90 degrees. Use a light dumbbell or no weight and rotate the forearm upward. (10 reps, 3 sets)

Day 11–14: Functional Strength and Endurance

  • Strength and Stability:

    • Overhead Punches: Use a light resistance band or no weight to mimic punching movements upward. Ensure smooth and controlled motion. (10 reps, 3 sets)

    • Prone T-Y-I Lifts: Lie on your stomach with arms extended:

      • T Position: Lift arms to form a T (shoulder level).

      • Y Position: Lift arms to form a Y (overhead).

      • I Position: Lift arms straight ahead (alongside ears). (5 reps per position, 2–3 sets)

    • Arm Circles: Perform small forward and backward circles with arms extended to shoulder height. (10 reps each direction)

  • Functional Movements:

    • Carry Progressions: Perform farmer’s carry with light dumbbells to promote shoulder stability. (15–20 seconds per side, 3 sets)

    • Dynamic Push Movements: Begin with wall push-ups to activate the rotator cuff without excessive strain. (10 reps, 3 sets)

  • Endurance:

    • Light aerobic exercise, such as walking or using a stationary bike, for 15–20 minutes.

 

Additional Notes

  • Avoid: Overhead heavy lifting, high-impact activities, and motions causing sharp pain.

  • Monitor: Watch for swelling, increased pain, or reduced ROM. If these occur, consult your healthcare provider.

  • Nutrition and Hydration: Support healing with a high-protein diet and proper hydration.

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