How long is the recovery period after shoulder reconstruction?
Patients are maintained in an immobilizer or abduction pillow for approximately 7-14 days. They may return to work within several days, but if their job requires heavy lifting or overhead activities then patients may need to stay out of work for approximately 8-12 weeks. The first six weeks of physical therapy focus on increasing shoulder range of motion. The second six weeks of physical therapy focus on strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder muscles. Full recovery and return to pre-injury athletic activities occurs in 3-6 months after shoulder reconstruction.
