If you have shoulder pain from a rotator cuff injury, even simple tasks like getting dressed or reaching overhead can become hard. If you’re supported by the NDIS, a carer, or a support coordinator, understanding your rehab options can make a big difference. In this blog, we’ll break down what a rotator cuff injury is, how physiotherapy can help, and simple steps for safe, guided rehab. If you want an easy, physio-led plan for recovery, you’re in the right place.
What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) that keep your shoulder stable and let it move freely. Common injuries include tendinitis from overuse, as well as partial and full tears, which are often caused by repetitive movement, aging, or sudden injury. You may experience pain, particularly when lifting or reaching, as well as stiffness, weakness, and difficulty moving your shoulder. These symptoms can make daily life challenging, so physiotherapy is a crucial step in recovery.
How Physiotherapy Can Help?
Physiotherapy is usually the main treatment for most rotator cuff tears, whether they’re small or large. Recovery is broken down into simple, step-by-step phases:
- Phase 1: Gentle Early Movement
After some rest or surgery, rehab starts with gentle, guided movements to keep your shoulder flexible and prevent stiffness. You’ll often wear a sling to protect your shoulder during this stage. - Phase 2: Starting to Move More
You’ll slowly begin to move your shoulder with help and do easy tasks. Research shows that starting gentle, pain-free movement early can help you regain mobility without raising your risk of another tear. - Phase 3: Building Strength and Skill
Now you’ll start gentle strengthening exercises, first with simple pushes or holds, then using bands or light weights as you get stronger. These help your shoulder muscles and shoulder blade work together. As you improve, you’ll do more everyday tasks and practice skills that matter to you. - Phase 4: Improving Posture and Movement
Your physio will help you fix any posture or movement problems. Sometimes, technology like wearable devices or video check-ins are used to keep your progress on track.
What does the research say?
A big research study found that people who start moving their shoulders gently and early do just as well as those who wait longer. Early movement can help you get your motion back faster and lower stiffness risk early on.
Tips for Managing or Preventing Rotator Cuff Injuries
To make the most of rehab and heal well:
- Start slow: Begin with gentle, pain-free movements before trying any resistance exercises.
- Stick to the plan: Do the home exercises your physio recommends, as they’re made just for you.
- Use ice or anti-inflammatories if your doctor says it’s okay, especially if you have swelling early on.
- Take it step by step: As you heal, move from gentle movements to exercises where you help, and then to strengthening exercises.
- Work on your posture: This is extra important if you or your carer help with everyday tasks or spend time at a desk.
- Look out for warning signs: If your pain gets worse, you hear clicking, or your strength and movement don’t improve, check in with your physio or doctor.
When to See a Physiotherapist?
See a health professional if you notice any of these:
- Pain doesn’t go away after a week or two
- Your symptoms make daily tasks or sleep hard
- You feel weak or stiff, and it’s hard to move your shoulder
- Doing rehab on your own isn’t helping you get better
Seeing a physio early helps you use the right techniques, avoid problems, and recover faster.
Concluding Thoughts
A physio-led rehab plan can help ease your pain and get your shoulder moving again, even if you have a rotator cuff tear. With the right exercises and steady support, you can make a real and lasting recovery. If you’re ready to start feeling better, reach out to our Brookvale clinic today.