Reverse Shoulder Replacement Physical Therapy Protocol

Rehabilitation after reverse shoulder replacement emphasizes restoration of function through the deltoid muscle while minimizing stiffness and unnecessary immobilization.

Dr. Streit often uses a modern accelerated recovery strategy with immediate mobility and sling-optional recovery in selected routine reverse shoulder replacement patients.

Phase 1: Immediate Recovery — 0 to 4 Weeks

• Gentle shoulder mobility as tolerated
• Hand, wrist, and elbow motion
• Functional arm use for light daily activities as directed
• Sling optional in selected routine cases
• Deltoid activation
• Avoid sudden heavy lifting

More protective restrictions may be needed after fracture, revision surgery, tendon repair, poor bone quality, or complex reconstruction.

Phase 2: Motion Restoration — 4 to 8 Weeks

• Progress forward elevation
• Functional reaching progression
• Gentle strengthening
• Scapular stabilization
• Progressive use of the arm for daily activity

The focus is on restoring comfortable functional use of the arm.

Phase 3: Functional Strengthening — 2 to 6 Months

• Deltoid strengthening
• Periscapular strengthening
• Functional lifting progression
• Endurance training
• Return to normal daily activities

In appropriate patients, normal lifting is often allowed around six weeks after surgery.

The goal after reverse shoulder replacement is efficient restoration of function with less stiffness and a more natural recovery.