Skip to main content

3 Phases of Post-Surgery Healing

Rotator cuff tears are commonly encountered shoulder problems and often present with non-specific pain. A skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeon, such as Dr. Sumit Dewanjee at FXRX in Phoenix, has special expertise in the diagnosis and management of rotator cuff injuries with minimally invasive surgery.

If you have been through surgery for tendon repair, you should know that your shoulder goes through 3 phases of healing before it recovers fully.

Inflammatory Phase

The inflammatory phase occurs during the first week after surgery. The platelets facilitate clotting to stop any bleeding. Chemicals are sent throughout the body to attract inflammatory cells to the site of surgery.

Proliferative Phase

The proliferative phase of tendon healing is also the new cell formation phase from the first week to 2-3 weeks after surgery. The inflammatory cells produce scar tissue and the original clot is replaced with new blood vessels. This scar tissue becomes the building block for more permanent repair tissue that would form in the next phase.

Maturation Phase

The maturation and remodeling phase occurs about 3 weeks after your surgery. The scar tissue is starting to get replaced by more mature, repair tissue. This phase may last at least 12 weeks but may go up to 26 weeks.

You Might Also Enjoy...

What Are Bone Growth Stimulators?

It may seem a bit like sci-fi, but bone growth stimulators use waves of energy to enhance the healing process that bone tissue undergoes after a fracture. Read more about this painless, innovative therapy and its benefits.

When Can I Exercise Normally After Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy typically offers a faster recovery than traditional open surgeries. But it’s crucial to follow instructions as you heal. Our specialty team offers tips for returning to regular activity after arthroscopy.

Possible Reasons Your Knee Keeps Locking

Everything from climbing a staircase to running a marathon requires cooperation from your knees. Injured ligaments, cartilage, bones, or muscles could be in play when your knee refuses to bend. Here are some common causes of knee locking.

This Is How Arthritis Affects Your Shoulders

If you’re an athlete or have reached a certain age, you’ve probably heard about the pitfalls of shoulder arthritis. But have you ever wondered if you can avoid it, how it affects joints, and which treatments can help? Keep reading.

Can an ACL Tear Heal on Its Own?

ACL tears are common, painful, and notoriously slow to heal. Learn more about ACL injuries and why your activity level may influence your treatment options — rehab alone versus surgery and then rehab.