When can you return to work after rotator cuff surgery?

Typically, a patient can return to light duties in two to three weeks after rotator cuff surgery, explains Proliance Orthopedic Associates. A return to strenuous activities that require extended use of the shoulder starts anywhere between four and five months, based on the doctor's determination of the extent of healing.

A patient begins limited use of the shoulder after 12 weeks and must avoid contact sports, heavy lifting, any activity that entails the risk of a fall or any other injury to the shoulder. Full recovery of the shoulder following a rotator cuff surgery takes up to a year, explains Proliance Orthopedic Associates.