Exercises for a supraspinatus tear: what to know

Exercises for a supraspinatus tear should be selected to protect healing tissue while gradually restoring comfortable shoulder movement and strength. The right plan depends on tear size, cause, pain, weakness and whether surgery or non-surgical care is being used.

The supraspinatus is one of the rotator-cuff muscles. It helps start arm elevation and supports the shoulder joint. A tear may present with Shoulder Pain, Pain When Lifting the Arm, or Shoulder Weakness; these symptoms do not by themselves identify the cause. A clinician may distinguish a tear from Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Shoulder Osteoarthritis.

Early rehabilitation may use supported arm movement, gentle assisted elevation and shoulder-blade positioning. Do not repeatedly lift heavy objects away from the body or force painful overhead motion. Once movement is controlled, a physiotherapist may add isometric work, light resistance and tasks that build endurance. Increase one feature at a time and watch for pain or weakness that lasts into the next day. Keep the shoulder moving within the limits provided after any procedure. Rotator Cuff Tear offers related information about the condition.

Arrange assessment for new or worsening weakness, inability to raise the arm, persistent night pain, or loss of function after an injury. Seek urgent care for a visible deformity, sudden severe pain, numbness, or a cold or discoloured arm. A clinician should review progress if exercises repeatedly cause a sharp increase in symptoms or the shoulder becomes progressively stiffer.

Ask whether the tear is partial or full thickness, which movements are restricted, and what strength work is appropriate now. Clarify whether imaging, an operation or a supervised rehabilitation programme is recommended, and what functional goal should guide progression.