Matthew Boes M.D.'s video: Rotator Cuff Stretches Rotator Cuff Strengthening Exercises Phase 3

Learn more about rotator cuff rehabilitation following rotator cuff repair here http://www.matthewboesmd.com/rotator-cuff-repair-rehabilitation/. Welcome to Dr. Matthew Boes’s Rotator Cuff Repair Rehabilitation video series. This video is designed to help maximize your recovery following rotator cuff repair/surgery. The goal of our Phase 3 program for rotator cuff rehabilitation is to start light reconditioning exercises for the rotator cuff muscles. Remember the following as you engage in Phase 3 rotator cuff exercises: Conduct STRETCHING exercises [1-5 below] to improve motion or how much you can move your arm Do these exercises 2-3 times daily until full motion is achieved Start aggressive stretching at this point if motion not normal Do warm up stretching prior to each strengthening session Conduct STRENGTHENING exercises [6-13 below] to improve muscle function and endurance Do every other or every third day to prevent irritation These are high repetition and low resistance exercises Start with one set of 12-15 reps; as strength improves go to two sets per session Exercise bands (ex. Therabands) are used during this phase for light resistance (1-5lbs). Bands are color-coded. Start with the lightest resistance and progress to the next level over 1-2 weeks No strengthening above shoulder level or with arm behind back The following rotator cuff strengthening exercises, which are demonstrated in this video, should be conducted during phase 3 of your rotator cuff rehab: WARM UP STRETCH – WALL SLIDES WARM UP STRETCH – EXTERNAL ROTATION AT WAIST WARM UP STRETCH – EXTERNAL ROTATION ABOVE SHOULDER WARM UP STRETCH – CROSS BODY WARM UP STRETCH – BEHIND BACK WITH STICK BAND – ELEVATION AND ABDUCTION BAND – EXTERNAL ROTATION BAND – INTERNAL ROTATION BAND – UPRIGHT HORIZONTAL ROW STANDING ELEVATION SUPINE PROTRACTION RETRACTION & DEPRESSION @ SHOULDER LEVEL RETRACTION & DEPRESSION @ WAIST LEVEL Icing is very important after each therapy session, so be sure to place an ice pack or cooling pad on the affected shoulder for 10 minutes to help limit any irritation from exercise. If the affected joint is stiff, try using moist heat for 10 minutes prior to exercise to help loosen things up. This video should not be used as a substitute for regular physical therapy visits and guidance from your physician. Only progress from one phase to the next based on recommendation from your physician. Most therapy regimens, particularly after rotator cuff repair, are based on a healing timeline. Progressing too quickly, even though it may feel okay at first, may put you at risk for injury. Regular physical therapy visits are valuable for giving you feedback on your progress and helping to ensure you are doing exercises properly. If you develop any questions or concerns regarding your condition while using this video, contact your physician. Best of luck in your recovery from your rotator cuff repair.