FOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS • PATIENTS • ATHLETIC TRAINERS
Shoulder Physical Therapy
Protocols
These rehabilitation protocols are designed to provide evidence-based guidelines following shoulder surgery. Every patient is different, and individual surgical findings or associated procedures may require modification. When specific postoperative instructions differ from these protocols, the surgeon's instructions always take precedence.
Modern Rehabilitation
Individualized Recovery
Therapists & Patients
As Techniques Evolve
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Rotator Cuff Repair
Protection of tendon healing with progressive restoration of motion and strength.
Revision Rotator Cuff Repair
More conservative rehabilitation emphasizing biologic tendon healing.
Biceps Tenodesis
Protection of the healing tenodesis with delayed biceps strengthening.
Diagnostic Arthroscopy / Debridement
Rapid return of motion and function.
Subacromial Decompression
Early motion with progressive strengthening.
Distal Clavicle Excision
Rapid functional recovery following arthroscopic AC joint surgery.
Shoulder Instability
Bankart Repair
Protection of the anterior labrum while restoring dynamic stability.
Posterior Labral Repair
Progressive rehabilitation following posterior stabilization.
SLAP Repair
Protection of the superior labrum and biceps anchor.
Latarjet Procedure
Bone graft protection with progressive return to athletics.
AC Joint Reconstruction
Protection of ligament reconstruction and restoration of shoulder mechanics.
Shoulder Replacement
Total Shoulder Replacement
Protection of the subscapularis repair with progressive restoration of motion and strength.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Functional rehabilitation emphasizing deltoid mechanics and safe return to activity.
Fractures & Stiffness
Proximal Humerus ORIF
Fracture-specific rehabilitation based on radiographic healing.
Capsular Release
Immediate motion program designed to prevent recurrent stiffness.
Important Disclaimer
These protocols are intended to provide general rehabilitation guidelines. Every surgical procedure is individualized, and modifications may be necessary based on intraoperative findings, tissue quality, associated procedures, patient-specific factors, or surgeon preference. If there is any uncertainty regarding rehabilitation progression, please contact our office before advancing therapy.
Questions About Rehabilitation?
If you are a physical therapist or athletic trainer with questions regarding a patient's rehabilitation, our office is happy to help clarify postoperative restrictions or progression.
Contact Our Office