Your surgeon will provide a post-operative protocol for physiotherapy following rotator cuff surgery, based on the type of surgery undertaken. Physiotherapy will normally begin with passive (fully assisted) movements within a limited range, then active-assisted movements, followed by active movements. Rotator cuff surgery rehabilitation focuses on initially protecting the surgical area as it heals, then gradually strengthening the shoulder and surrounding muscles before commencing more advanced exercises such as sports-specific movements. The whole process takes a number of months and your physiotherapist will be in close contact with your surgeon during this time.