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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:
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Minimize inflammation
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Restore passive and active range of motion (ROM)
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Protect the healing tissue
Day 1–3: Rest and Passive Care
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Activity:
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Rest the shoulder; avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling movements.
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Use a sling if recommended by your doctor but avoid prolonged immobilization.
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Pain Management:
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Apply ice packs (15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily) to manage pain and inflammation.
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Gentle soft tissue massage around the shoulder to promote circulation (avoid the injection site).
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Passive Range of Motion (PROM):
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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)
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Day 4–7: Gentle Mobility and Isometric Activation
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Mobility Exercises:
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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)
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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)
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Isometric Strengthening:
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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)
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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)
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Postural Training:
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Practice standing and sitting with proper posture to reduce strain on the shoulder and rotator cuff muscles.
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Week 2: Progression to Strength and Functional Movements
Goals:
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Improve strength and stability
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Regain active range of motion
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Prepare for functional movements
Day 8–10: Strengthening and Active Mobility
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Active Range of Motion (AROM):
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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)
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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)
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Strengthening:
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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)
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Scapular Retraction: Squeeze your shoulder blades together gently while keeping the shoulders relaxed. (10 reps, 3 sets)
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Stability Training:
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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)
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Day 11–14: Functional Strength and Endurance
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Strength and Stability:
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Overhead Punches: Use a light resistance band or no weight to mimic punching movements upward. Ensure smooth and controlled motion. (10 reps, 3 sets)
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Prone T-Y-I Lifts: Lie on your stomach with arms extended:
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T Position: Lift arms to form a T (shoulder level).
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Y Position: Lift arms to form a Y (overhead).
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I Position: Lift arms straight ahead (alongside ears). (5 reps per position, 2–3 sets)
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Arm Circles: Perform small forward and backward circles with arms extended to shoulder height. (10 reps each direction)
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Functional Movements:
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Carry Progressions: Perform farmer’s carry with light dumbbells to promote shoulder stability. (15–20 seconds per side, 3 sets)
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Dynamic Push Movements: Begin with wall push-ups to activate the rotator cuff without excessive strain. (10 reps, 3 sets)
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Endurance:
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Light aerobic exercise, such as walking or using a stationary bike, for 15–20 minutes.
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Additional Notes
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Avoid: Overhead heavy lifting, high-impact activities, and motions causing sharp pain.
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Monitor: Watch for swelling, increased pain, or reduced ROM. If these occur, consult your healthcare provider.
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Nutrition and Hydration: Support healing with a high-protein diet and proper hydration.