Post-op Rehabilitation's Influence on Tendon Healing & Clinical Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Early range of motion group: Shoulder pendulum exercises will be allowed from the time of surgery. Immediate range of motion of the elbow, forearm, wrist and hand. At the first postoperative visit, PROM of the shoulder will be permitted under therapist direction. Patients will avoid IR and behind the back stretching. At 6 weeks, AAROM and AROM will be advanced as tolerated. Capsular stretching will be advanced until full range of motion is achieved. Strengthening activities of the rotator cuff, deltoid and scapular stabilizers will be permitted at 3 months post surgery.

Immobilization group: 6 weeks of sling shoulder immobilization. Immediate range of motion of the elbow, forearm, wrist and hand. At 6 weeks, PROM and stretching of the shoulder allowed under therapist direction. At 12 weeks, AAROM and AROM exercises will be initiated and capsular stretching advanced until full ROM achieved. Strengthening activities of the rotator cuff, deltoid and scapular stabilizers will be permitted at 4 months post surgery.