Rehabilitation After Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Current Concepts
Successful outcome of total shoulder arthroplasty depends on a well-designed and a well-executed physical therapy program. For maximal benefit, the program is usually initiated immediately after surgery and follows a logical pattern of joint mobilization followed by muscle strengthening. The process proceeds through a series of well-defined phases. The patient must see him- or herself as the active agent in the program, a concept that is enhanced by a discussion and demonstration of the therapy goals before surgery. Because of a unique understanding of the therapy requirements, the surgeon should remain intimately involved with the patient and therapist, frequently evaluating progress and outcomes of the exercises. When a well-performed surgical procedure is supplemented with a well-designed and frequently monitored therapy program, an excellent outcome of shoulder replacement should be expected.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Euclid, OH.
Address reprint requests to John J. Brems, MD, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 99 Northline Circle Dr., Suite 100, Euclid, OH 44119.