*Adapted from James Bradley, MD
WEEKS 0-4 (Patient Responsibility):
Range of motion exercises should be performed starting the day after shoulder surgery; exercises are to be done 3 – 4 times a day, 15 repetitions each. The sling may or may not
need to be removed to exercise (depending on the brand). A portion of the exercise program requires the assistance of a friend or a family member. This period of limited activity is critical for the healing of the soft tissues and promoting a shoulder without instability.
WEEKS 4-10 (Formal Physical Therapy Initiated):
- Progressive passive range-of-motion to full, as tolerated in all planes
- Begin passive posterior capsular and internal rotation stretching
- Begin passive and manual scapulothoracic mobility program
- Begin external rotation in abduction exercises
- Begin protected biceps, rotator cuff and scapular stabilizer strengthening
- Allow use of operative extremity for light activities of daily living
- Discontinue sling and abductor pillow at 6 weeks
WEEKS 10-16:
- Begin biceps, rotator cuff and scapular stabilizer resistance exercises
- Begin sport-specific exercise program
WEEKS 16-24:
- At 4 months, throwing athletes begin the Interval Throwing Program Phase I
- Continue stretching and strengthening programs with special emphasis on posterior capsular stretching
WEEKS 24-36:
- Continue and complete Interval Throwing Program (Phase I, II, & III for pitchers;Â Phase I & II for infielders, outfielders and catchers)
- Continue strengthening and posterior capsular stretching indefinitely. Occult posterior capsular tightness had a significant role in the original SLAP lesion; stretching this area will limit the chances of recurrence.
- Return to sport at nine months if cleared by Dr. Burnham.
Complete Throwing Program booklet provided through this office.