Arthroscopic/Open Anterior Stabilisation

The operative procedure is performed to correct recurrent dislocations and will involve soft tissue, and/or bony reconstruction.

Day 1 Post-op

Mastersling with body belt attached for 3 weeks.
Finger, wrist and radio-ulnar and scapular movements.
Assisted elbow flexion and extension in standing (in sitting with SLAP lesion)
Teach axillary hygiene
Teach postural awareness
To go home when comfortable

3 Weeks

Patient attends review and removal of stitches and body belt.
Gentle pendular exercises, flexion/extension and circumduction only

6 Weeks

The sling is removed and the patient begins formal physiotherapy, including hydro.

Aims of Physiotherapy

Regain scapular and gleno-humeral stability working for shoulder joint control.
Gradually increase range of movement – do not push external rotation.
Strengthen the rotator cuff muscles.
Increase proprioception, using open and closed chain exercise.
Core stability work as appropriate
No abduction coupled with external rotation until 3 months.

Return to Functional Activities

Driving 8 weeks
Return to work Light duties as tolerated after 6 weeks Heavy duties at 3 months
Swimming
Breaststroke at 8 weeks
Golf - 3 months
No Contact sports for 6 months - Contact sport including: horse riding, rugby, football, martial arts, racquet sports, wind surfing, handgliding and rock climbing.