Tendon Transfer — Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer

Dr. Michael C. Fu MD (Hospital for Special Surgery) · Michael C. Fu, MD, MHS

Weight-Bearing

N/A

Key Restrictions

No shoulder ROM for first 8 weeks; immobilized in maximum ER for 6 weeks; no pendulums or Codmans in Phase I; no IR beyond neutral through Phase II; 5-lb lifting limit at Phase III; no resisted shoulder strengthening until Phase III

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (0-8 wks): full immobilization in max ER, distal exercises only -> Phase II (8-12 wks): PROM ER + gentle scapular mobility -> Phase III (12-16 wks): PROM/AROM with IR limit, isometric RC -> Phase IV (16 wks-6 months): isotonic strengthening + functional progression

Notes

For massive irreparable RC tear in active patients not meeting RTSA criteria; lower trapezius in-phase with posterior RC; tendon allograft bridges lower trap to proximal humerus

Surgeon / Author

Michael C. Fu, MD, MHS