Editorial Commentary: Shoulder Stiffness Enhances Repair Integrity After Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

Shoulder stiffness after rotator cuff repair is relatively common. In the past, this was thought to be a difficult complication, and many suggested manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic capsular release early in the postoperative course if a patient developed stiffness after rotator cuff repair. However, recent research shows such stiffness is actually a good thing. If a patient develops stiffness after rotator cuff repair, they have a better chance of healing their repair. Eventually, most of the stiffness resolves, and it may be that shoulder stiffness after rotator cuff repair is part of the natural healing response and not detrimental to repair but rather is beneficial and results in an intact repair.