Subacromial Decompression Rehabilitation Protocols

7 Subacromial Decompression rehabilitation protocols from 7 institutions, published 2003–2024. Weight-bearing progressions vary by institution — compare them in the table below before selecting a protocol.

Compare by institution

Institution	Weight-Bearing	Key Restrictions
Dr. Michael C. Fu MD (Hospital for Special Surgery)…	N/A	If distal clavicle excision performed: no horizontal adduction for 8 weeks; sling for comfort only 0-2 wks
Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS) — Shoulder…	Sling for comfort 2-4 wks Phase I, fully discontinued Phase II	Progression varies depending on patient's work/sport requirements
Saint Louis University (SLUCare) — / Partial RC Debridement /…	N/A	DC sling POD 1 (comfort only); passive and AAROM all planes no motion limitations immediately; isometrics all…
Sutter Health / Palo Alto Medical Foundation — / Distal…	N/A (upper extremity)	Sling for comfort only Phase I (remove as desired for hygiene/exercises/activities); wean from sling Phase II…
UCLA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery - Sports Medicine — /…	N/A (upper extremity)	Sling for comfort 0-2 wks; D/C sling wks 2-4; no resisted motions Phase I (0-4 wks); no abduction or 90/90 ER…
University of Delaware Physical Therapy — (with or without…	N/A (shoulder); Codman exercises from sling week 1; no sling requirement documented	No heavy resisted flexion for 6 weeks; distal clavicle excision: ROM may be slower due to increased…
University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery — General Shoulder…	NWB surgical UE initially; functional use as tolerated with sling discontinued by 1-2…	Sling until comfortable (typically 1-2 weeks); avoid horizontal adduction stretching for 6 weeks if distal…