How to Care for a Rotator Cuff Tear
- 1). Stop any activities that aggravate the shoulder or are causing shoulder pain. Do not drive. Stop any overhead reaching, lifting of heavy objects or any activity that requires repetitive shoulder movement. Immobilize the shoulder with a sling to help support the shoulder.
- 2). Rest and ice the shoulder for the first two days and take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. This will help to reduce any swelling or pain. Use an ice pack two to three times each day and for 15 to 20 minutes each time.
- 3). Alternate the ice therapy with heat after two days. Use a heating pad two to three times per day and for 15 to 20 minutes each time. Heat therapy will help draw blood to the area and will help the healing process. If you are still experiencing pain, continue to take pain medication.
- 4). Start a stretching routine once the pain has eased. This will help to keep the joint flexible and from becoming stiff. Do light overhead stretching and across the body stretching. If stretching does not cause any pain, start doing shoulder exercises. Start with shoulder circles with arms held straight out from your side. Progress to using light hand weights and doing arm raises, curls and shoulder shrugs. Always ice the shoulder after exercising to control any swelling.
- 5). Consult with a doctor if there is no improvement after a couple of weeks, and you are still experiencing pain. Your doctor may suggest having a cortisone injection. This will temporarily reduce the pain and allow you to continue your exercise and stretching program without pain.
Source...