Today, I will delve into the post-operative rehabilitation process at my practice, focusing on a patient who has undergone rotator cuff repair surgery.
Rotator cuff tears can occur due to excessive stress from sports, falls, collisions, or sudden movements. They can also result from long-term overuse in sports or occupations, where inflammation or gradual damage weakens the tendon. Age further contributes to the risk, as the elasticity and strength of the rotator cuff decrease over time.
Our patient, an avid tennis player for many years, suffered a rotator cuff tear about a decade ago while playing tennis. Following surgery, he has been attending our clinic regularly for ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation.
1. The Effectiveness of Massage in Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
Massage therapy plays a crucial role in post-operative rehabilitation by alleviating muscle tension and enhancing blood flow.
This is particularly beneficial for rotator cuff surgery recovery, as it helps to reduce stiffness and improve flexibility around the surgical site.
We also assess the condition of the fascia and, when needed, perform fascial release using jojoba oil, combined with cupping or manual techniques.
2. The Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
Acupuncture can similarly aid in relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and reducing inflammation and pain.
Electroacupuncture, which involves pulsed electrical stimulation, can penetrate deeper and provide additional relief compared to traditional acupuncture.
We carefully time this procedure, ensuring that post-operative scars have healed sufficiently before beginning treatment. This timing is determined through detailed consultation and physical examinations.
3. The Effectiveness of Mild Exercise in Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Alongside massage and acupuncture, incorporating mild exercise into your rehabilitation plan is crucial. I will provide guidance on light exercises to be performed at home, which aid in the recovery of muscles and tissues affected by surgery. These exercises help restore the range of motion and flexibility of the affected joints, which can be limited after surgery.
The Importance of Balanced Rehabilitation: Avoiding "Excessive" and "Overprotective" Approaches
It’s essential to strike the right balance in post-operative rehabilitation. Starting rehabilitation too early or engaging in overly strenuous exercises can place excessive strain on tissues and joints, potentially hindering recovery. Conversely, being overly cautious and restricting movement too much can impede the restoration of strength and function, leading to muscle atrophy and joint immobility.
Rehabilitation should be tailored to each patient’s specific condition and the nature of their surgery. Appropriate timing and guidance are crucial for effective recovery. While surgery and the subsequent recovery period can be mentally taxing, active participation in rehabilitation can significantly enhance motivation and recovery outcomes. My goal is to work closely with each patient to achieve their individual recovery goals.
For this patient, it took six months to resume daily activities without discomfort, but with consistent effort, he experienced steady improvement and was able to return to playing tennis a year after her surgery.
Please contact me.
Daisuke Tazawa
BODYWORKS AZABU
*Permission has been granted by the patient to post the image and details of this treatment