Stiffness after Rotator Cuff Repair

Postoperative stiffness after rotator cuff repair can be functionally debilitating and lead to significant patient dissatisfaction. Both non-modifiable and modifiable patient risk factors can play a role in the development of significant postsurgical stiffness. Additionally, certain technical characteristics of the operation have been shown to correlate with the risk of a limited range of motion postoperatively. Management options for postoperative stiffness after rotator cuff repair include both nonoperative, as well as operative interventions. Despite a number of advances in the surgical techniques for rotator cuff repair, postoperative rehabilitation protocols, and treatment options for substantial loss of range of motion, postoperative stiffness after rotator cuff repair remains a difficult problem for patients and surgeons.