Week 0-1:
Patient to do Home Exercises given to the post-op (pendulums, elbow ROM, wrist ROM, grip strengthening)
Weeks 1-4:`
- No IR up the back; No ER behind the head
- ROM goals: 90º FF/20º ER at side
- No resisted FF or biceps until 6 weeks post-op as to not stress the biceps root
- Sling for 4 weeks
- Heat before/ice after PT sessions
Weeks 4-8:
- D/C sling
- Increase AROM 140°FF/ 40°ER at side/ 60°ABD/ IR behind back to waist
- Strengthening (isometrics/light bands) within AROM limitations
- Also start strengthening scapular stabilizers (traps/rhomboids/lev. scap/etc)
- Physical modalities per PT discretion
Weeks 8-12:
- If ROM lacking, increase to full with gentle passive stretching at end ranges
- Advance strengthening as tolerated: isometrics àbands àlight weights (1-5 lbs); 8-12 reps/2-3 set per rotator cuff, deltoid, and scapular stabilizers
Months 3-12:
- Only do strengthening 3x/week to avoid rotator cuff tendonitis
- Begin UE ergometer
- Begin eccentrically resisted motions, plyometrics (ex weighted ball toss), proprioception (ex body blade), and closed chain exercises at 12 weeks.
- Begin sports related rehab at 3 months, including advanced conditioning
- Return to throwing at 4 ½ months
- Throw from pitcher’s mound at 6 months