Posterior Shoulder Instability Repair

Orthopaedic Associates of Maine

Weight-Bearing

FWB; UltraSling 4-6 weeks (4 wks: traumatic/acute; 6 wks: atraumatic/ligamentous laxity)

Key Restrictions

Protect posterior capsule — avoid extremes of IR throughout; PROM restricted: 90° FF and ER to 0° by 4 wks postop; isokinetic testing at 6 months (≥80% strength for sports-specific program); RTS: 12 months throwing, 9-12 months power/contact, 8-12 months non-contact

Timeline & Phases

4-6 wks (discontinue sling, PROM/AAROM/isometrics), 6-8 wks (advance ROM, active ER), 2-3 months (full ROM, isotonics), 4 months (eccentric RC, isokinetics), 5 months (advance), 6 months (isokinetic testing, sports-specific)

Notes

Immobilization duration based on injury type; ≥80% isokinetic strength at 6 months before sport-specific program; 9-12 month RTS for contact/power athletes