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Without doing an examination, I can't comment on your condition specifically, but I can make a few general comments. After rotator cuff repair surgery, the body lays down scar tissue where the repair took place, the site of the incision and possibly within the joint. The capsule of the shoulder (seran-wrap like structure that helps with stability in the shoulder) also can become tighter because of having to keep the shoulder immobile in the beginning stages of rehab and this can last for a long time. The scar tissue and tighter capsule can prevent the shoulder joints from moving optimally, putting more stress on other structures such as tendons (connect muscle to bone), ligaments (connect bone to bone) and can lead to more wear and tear at one part of the joint. Even though laying down scar tissue is a part of the normal healing process, it is not as strong as healthy muscle tissue and therefore it is also important to continue to work on strengthening your rotator cuff muscles and the muscles in your mid- to upper back in order to promote the most normal shoulder movement and function. I recommend you see a physical therapist or consult your surgeon to discuss your symptoms as well. A physical therapist can perform an examination to assess the strength and stability of your muscles and ligaments, joint mobility, your function, as well determine if any other parts of the body are contributing to your shoulder symptoms.
Thank you for your question! Alan Curtis, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon
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