Arthroscopic Shoulder Stabilisation

Indications:

Performed for recurrent shoulder instability

Protocol:

Pre-operative rehabilitation is advisable

Post Operation:

Day 1 - 3 weeks  

• Sling for 3 weeks (athletes can wean off sooner under guidance of club therapist)
• Teach axillary hygiene
• Teach postural awareness and scapular setting
• Core stability exercises as appropriate
• Proprioceptive exercises (minimal weightbearing below 90 degrees)
• Active assisted flexion as comfortable
• Active assisted external rotation as comfortable 
• Do not force or stretch

3 - 6 weeks

• Wean off sling
• Progress active assisted to active ROM as comfortable
• Do not force or stretch

6 - 12 Weeks

• Regain scapula & glenohumeral stability working for shoulder joint control rather than range
• Gradually increase ROM
• Strengthen
• Increase proprioception through open & closed chain exercise
• Progress core stability exercises
• Incorporate sports-specific rehabilitation
• Plyometrics and pertubation training

Milestones

Week 6

• Active elevation to pre op level

Week 12

• Minimum 80% range of external rotation compared to asymptomatic side
• Normal movement patterns throughout range

Return to functional activities

Return to work

• Sedentary job: as tolerated
• Manual job: 3 months

Driving

• 6-8 weeks

Swimming

• Breaststroke: 6 weeks
• Freestyle: 12 weeks

Golf

• 3 Months

Lifting

• Avoid lifting heavy items for 3 months.

Contact/High Impact Sports (e.g. Rugby League, AFL, martial arts, racket sports and Surfing)

• 3 months

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