The shoulder is the most mobile joint in your body, and that is precisely what makes its rehab so challenging: whether it's a planned surgery or after a fall, the treated tissue needs protection, yet the joint must not be allowed to stiffen. At BodyLab in Zurich Altstetten, we guide you through this balance after your shoulder surgery, phase by phase.
Post-Op Rehab
The procedures this rehab is designed to help you conquer
We most frequently guide rehabilitation following rotator cuff reconstruction—the surgical refixation of torn tendons that guide and stabilize your humeral head. Additionally, we specialize in stabilization surgery after repeated shoulder dislocations, shoulder replacements, and surgically treated fractures of the humerus or clavicle, as well as procedures on the biceps tendon or acromioclavicular joint.
We are right there by your side even after further procedures, such as on the biceps tendon or acromioclavicular joint. And if you are experiencing shoulder pain without having had surgery, our pages on shoulder pain and frozen shoulder are here to help you move forward.
Mastering Your Recovery: What to Expect After Shoulder Surgery
By the way, if your surgery is scheduled but hasn't taken place yet, getting started beforehand is highly rewarding. The control and strength you build in your shoulder blade and surrounding muscles now means you won't have to rebuild them from scratch afterward.
Your first session: how we kickstart your journey
Bring what you've got: your doctor's prescription, and if available, your surgical report and post-treatment plan. We will review your documents, assess your baseline with measurable data, and translate your surgeon's protocol into a customized plan that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. From hour one, you will know exactly where you stand, what you are capable of, what you should focus on, and how to conquer the next steps.
When to consult your doctor
Post-operative complications are rare. However, seek immediate medical evaluation if you experience any of these symptoms:
Fever accompanied by your surgical site becoming hotter, redder, and more painful: a possible sign of infection.
Swelling, tension, or tenderness in one calf or leg: a possible thrombosis, especially during periods of limited movement.
A sudden, significant loss of strength or sensation compared to previous days: this must be medically evaluated before your next therapy session.
Pain that increases day by day despite resting: your surgeon should examine this.
These symptoms are rare. If none of them apply to you, nothing stands in the way of your successful treatment with us.
Coverage Guaranteed
Physiotherapy is covered by your basic health insurance with a doctor's referral. In the event of an accident, your accident insurance or the accident coverage of your health insurance company will step in. For Medical Training Therapy (MTT), prior cost approval from your health insurance company is required, which we will clarify with you before we get started. You can book Osteopathy directly without a referral; most supplementary insurance policies for alternative and complementary medicine will contribute to the costs.
Whether it's physiotherapy or osteopathy: you are always welcome as a self-payer, with absolutely no compromise on the quality of your treatment or time. You can find the cost of your treatment under Rates and Cost Coverage.