Posterior Stabilisation

What to expect during your recovery

Rehabilitation after posterior shoulder stabilisation is a structured and protective process designed to restore shoulder stability, movement, and strength while allowing the repaired tissues to heal. This procedure requires a careful progression, particularly in the early stages, to avoid placing stress on the repair.

Guidelines are provided here, however adjustments may be made by your physiotherapist during recovery tailored to your individual progress.

General guidelines

Weeks 0–6: Protection and basic movement phase

During the first phase, the focus is on protecting the repair while retaining basic movement

In this time:

A sling is needed for the first 4 weeks.
It is not full-time Unless advised otherwise the sling is not needed when in your home, nor in bed at night. Use a sling when walking around out of the home, or within the home only when walking for any extended period e.g. around the garden. The sling can be removed and both hands used freely to write, type, eat and assist with dressing and with personal hygiene.
The sling should be loose fitting, and no waist strap should be used
The sling is used to protect from excessive movement and use, from sudden rapid movement and from other people. It is not there to support the weight of the arm as such.

Use of the arm

Simple daily tasks including desk work
Avoid lifting any heavy items or forceful pushing or pulling with the affected side
Movements are restricted and forceful use discouraged in the first 6 weeks to protect the subscapularis muscle repair - this is a part of the rotator cuff group of muscles at the front of the shoulder. It is cut to allow access and then repaired with internal stitches at the end of the replacement procedure. Protection of this muscle repair is important in the long-term success of the anatomic shoulder replacement
You cannot drive a vehicle in this time

Exercises

Maintaining mobility in the elbow, wrist, and hand
Scapular setting (posture) exercises
Perform the exercises shown at least 3 times per day at home, unless pain prevents this.
Progression of active-assisted exercises (helping move your arm using your other arm or equipment such as a stick or pulley)

Your sling is discontinued after 6 weeks

Weeks 6–12: Restoring movement and early strengthening

Weeks 6–9: Expanding movement and light strength

This phase includes:

Formal physiotherapy sessions beginning at 6 weeks to guide and advance exercises and optimise the final outcome
Increased range of motion in all directions, including gradual external rotation (rotation outwards to the side), to maximum extent. No movement range restrictions apply at this stage
Rotation behind the back (internal rotation) may be commenced, and is expected to be a little uncomfortable initially
Light strengthening of the shoulder muscles – Isometric contraction exercises
More active use of the arm in daily activities

Driving is resumed during this stage.

Weeks 9–12: Building strength and control

Continue regular physiotherapy visits and 3 x daily exercises at home

3–6 months: Strengthening and return to activity

3 to 6 Months: Advanced recovery

Peak range of motion and strength is obtained by 12 months, occasionally up to 2 years for some muscles. Formal physiotherapy can cease between 4 and 6 months after surgery depending on progress, however ongoing home exercising is useful to derive maximum benefit.

Your rehabilitation journey

Recovery after posterior shoulder stabilisation requires patience and consistency. Protecting the repair in the early stages and progressing gradually is essential for a stable and successful outcome.

Important note

These guidelines provide a general framework for recovery. Any specific instructions provided by Dr Richard Dallalana or by your treating physiotherapist should be followed in preference to these guidelines.

Can shoulder or elbow surgery help with ongoing pain?

In appropriate cases, modern orthopaedic techniques may help reduce pain, improve strength and mobility, and support a more active and confident lifestyle. Outcomes vary depending on your condition and individual circumstances.