Physical Therapy vs Home Exercise for Shoulder Arthritis

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

+6 other locations

Overseen byGrant E Garrigues, MD

Age: Any Age

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Rush University Medical Center

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The primary objective of this study is to compare outcomes between formal clinic based physical therapy (PT) rehabilitation and surgeon directed home therapy (HT) after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) as measured by pain, range of motion, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (ASES) scores at 6 weeks, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The secondary objective of this study is to determine if PT rehabilitation following RSA is associated with a higher level of postoperative complications, specifically acromial stress fractures or dislocation. This information will be useful to discern if PT is effective in providing pain relief more quickly, as well as improved motion and self-reported functional outcomes following RSA, which can assist surgeons and rehabilitation specialists in designing optimal care plans for this patient population. The project will also help to clarify if PT services place patients who have RSA at higher risk for acromial stress fractures or dislocation.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals who have undergone reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) due to cuff tear arthropathy, massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, or primary osteoarthritis. Participants must be able to speak, read, and write English without cognitive deficits that limit following directions. They should not require skilled nursing facilities or in-patient rehab post-surgery.

Inclusion Criteria

I am having shoulder replacement for specific shoulder issues.

Exclusion Criteria

I have difficulty understanding or following instructions due to cognitive issues.

I cannot go to physical therapy due to transportation or money issues.

Subjects who cannot speak, read, or write the English language

+2 more

Participant Groups

The study compares formal clinic-based physical therapy (PT) with surgeon-directed home therapy (HT) after RSA. It measures pain relief, range of motion, and functional outcomes using specific scores over a period up to 24 months postoperatively. The risk of complications like acromial stress fractures or dislocation is also assessed.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Physical Therapy (PT) GroupExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Subjects will attend formal physical therapy after surgery.

Group II: Home Therapy (HT) GroupActive Control1 Intervention

Subjects will receive instruction from clinical staff regarding home therapy exercises after surgery.