Prognosis – how long are you on sick leave?
The prognosis of the disease depends strongly on the individual healing process. As a result of prolonged immobilization after a rotator cuff rupture, the muscles of the arm are often severely weakened and it takes a long time for them to return to their original form. In most cases, the shoulder is not allowed to be exercised for longer than its movement.
However, after intensive, individual and consistent physiotherapeutic follow-up treatment, the function of the shoulder can usually be restored very well. Problems can remain in the area of working overhead or with fast reactive movements. Sports that put a lot of strain on the shoulder, such as some ball sports, but also martial arts should be avoided.
A torn tendon has a higher risk to tear again. After a rotator cuff rupture, a person is usually on sick leave for 4-6 weeks, but sometimes up to 3 months, depending on the profession. Care should be taken when returning to work to avoid a new injury. Full operational capability can be expected after about 6 months.
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