Physical Therapy After Shoulder Impingement Surgery: What to Expect

If you’ve undergone shoulder impingement surgery, you’re on the path to long-term relief—but recovery doesn’t end in the operating room. A successful outcome depends heavily on a well-structured physical therapy program, and at Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we guide you every step of the way.

Why Physical Therapy Matters After Shoulder Impingement Surgery

Shoulder impingement surgery, often performed arthroscopically, relieves pain by removing the bone or soft tissue causing compression on the rotator cuff tendons. However, surgery is only the beginning. Physical therapy (PT) plays a critical role in:

• Regaining shoulder strength

• Restoring full range of motion

• Reducing post-surgical stiffness and inflammation

• Preventing re-injury or complications

Timeline of Physical Therapy After Shoulder Surgery

At POSMC, your physical therapy plan will be personalized based on your age, activity level, and the extent of your surgery. Here’s a general timeline to give you an idea of what to expect:

Phase 1: Immediate Post-Op (Weeks 1–2)

• Focus: Reducing pain and inflammation

• Techniques: Ice therapy, gentle passive motion, sling support

• Goal: Protect the repair while maintaining mobility in nearby joints

Phase 2: Early Recovery (Weeks 3–6)

• Focus: Improving range of motion

• Techniques: Guided stretching, pendulum exercises, assisted motion

• Goal: Restore flexibility without straining the healing shoulder

Phase 3: Strengthening (Weeks 6–12)

• Focus: Building muscle strength and joint stability

• Techniques: Resistance bands, light weights, rotator cuff and scapular exercises

• Goal: Support daily activities with proper form and control

Phase 4: Functional Training (3 Months and Beyond)

• Focus: Returning to work, sports, or physical hobbies

• Techniques: Sport-specific drills, advanced strength training

• Goal: Full functional recovery and prevention of future impingement

What Makes POSMC Physical Therapy Different?

Our physical therapists at Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center work closely with our orthopedic surgeons to create a seamless and integrated recovery plan. We provide:

• One-on-one, personalized care

• Evidence-based therapy techniques

• Education on proper posture and movement mechanics

• A collaborative approach between patient, surgeon, and therapist

Your Road to Recovery Starts Here

Don’t rush recovery—but don’t go it alone either. At POSMC, our expert team will guide you through every phase of post-surgical rehabilitation to ensure you regain strength, motion, and confidence in your shoulder.

Ready to take the next step?
Schedule your post-op physical therapy evaluation today and trust Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center for your complete shoulder care.