Current Concepts in Rehabilitation for Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability

Purpose of review

The objectives of this review are to evaluate the current evidence-based literature and concepts surrounding rehabilitation in patients with anterior shoulder instability injuries and surgical repair.

Recent findings

The current literature evidence for shoulder rehabilitation for anterior shoulder instability and labral repair is limited. As a result, there are variations among surgeons and physical therapists in rehabilitation protocols after anterior shoulder instability injuries and repair. While general consensus on certain rehabilitation parameters exists, the evidence for the importance of rehabilitation and functional performance test for return to sport in future injury prevention is still lacking in literature.

Summary

Rehabilitation after anterior shoulder instability injury and anterior labral repair is paramount in the injured or post-operative shoulder. Restoration of soft tissue mobility, dynamic glenohumeral joint stability, and balance and strength around the shoulder not only protect healing of injured or repaired soft tissues but also potentially minimizes future re-injury or recurrence risk.