Advice

Updated September 13, 2026.

Move from passive to active shoulder exercises when your treating team clears that progression—not simply when pain improves. After rotator cuff surgery, the repair may still need protection even when the shoulder feels more comfortable. The timing for an untreated injury, a small surgical repair, and a large repair can be different.

Know which type of movement is prescribed

• Passive motion: the shoulder is moved with assistance while the shoulder muscles remain relaxed.
• Active-assisted motion: you contribute to movement but receive assistance.
• Active motion: you move the arm using its own muscles.
• Resisted exercise: a band, weight, or other resistance adds load.

Permission to move actively is not automatically permission to strengthen with weights. Ask your therapist to demonstrate the exact movement and explain which activities remain restricted.

Why the calendar alone is not enough

The American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Therapists’ rehabilitation consensus describes gradual, controlled loading after repair with attention to tear size, tissue quality, and patient factors. As an example of why instructions differ, Mass General Brigham’s large-to-massive repair protocol restricts both active and passive shoulder motion in its initial protection phase. A general online timeline cannot replace your surgeon’s protocol.

Questions to ask before progressing

• Am I cleared for passive, assisted, active, or resisted movement?
• Are there limits on the direction or range of movement?
• What symptoms mean I should stop and contact the team?
• Do everyday tasks such as dressing, pushing a door, or carrying a bag violate my current restrictions?
• When will we reassess my progress?

Bring the written surgical instructions to physical therapy. If instructions from two providers appear to conflict, ask them to clarify the plan before trying the next stage.

Keep a useful progress record

Note the exercises prescribed, how you performed them, and any symptoms afterward. Report a new injury, unexpected loss of movement, or new weakness rather than trying to make up missed progress with extra repetitions. A change in the plan should be deliberate and individualized.

Shoulder rehabilitation in Wichita

Wichita Physical Therapy Group can discuss your rehabilitation needs and appointment availability. Contact the clinic or call (316) 358-9942, and bring your surgeon’s restrictions if you have had a repair. Learn more about our sports rehabilitation services.