Shoulder Replacement Rehab

Indications:

Severe osteo or rheumatoid arthritis where the predominant feature is pain

Protocol

	In Patient
Day 0	Mastersling with body belt or Cold Compression sling fitted in theatre Finger, wrist and elbow movements Occupational Therapy
Day 1 Level 1 Exercises	Body belt removed Axillary hygiene taught Pendular exercises Scapular setting Passive flexion in the scapula plane as comfortable External rotation to neutral Discharge usually at day 1
	Out Patient
Day 5 - 3 weeks Level 2 exercises	No resisted internal rotation or forced passive external rotation (reattached subscapularis muscle is vulnerable) Begin passive abduction (maintain shoulder in IR) Passive external rotation to neutral only Active assisted flexion in supine and progress to sitting position as soon as the patient is able. Progress to active when possible Begin isometric strengthening of all muscle groups (except IR) Remove sling as able Functional reaching activities below 90 degrees
3 weeks + Level 2 exercises	Encourage active movement into all ranges with some gentle self-stretching at the end of range. Add isometric IR Progress functional activities
6 Weeks + Progress to levels 3 exercises	Progress strengthening through range Regularly stretch the joint to the end of its available range Soft tissue manipulation if required

Milestones
Week 3	50% of pre-op active ROM
Week 6	Passive ROM to at least pre-op level
Week 12	Active ROM to at least pre-op level

Improvement continues for 18 months to 2 years and the patients should continue exercising until their maximum potential has been reached

Return to Functional Activities

Driving	After 6 weeks
Swimming	Breaststroke: 6 weeks Freestyle: 12 weeks
Golf	3 months
Lifting	Light lifting can begin at 3 weeks Avoid lifting heavy items for 6 months
Return to Work	Sedentary job: 6 weeks Manual job: Guided by surgeon

Related Links:

1. Rehabilitation for Surface Replacement - Diana Middleton