Skip the clinic? home rehab may be just as good after shoulder replacement

NCT ID NCT03719859

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Rush University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at 100 people who had reverse total shoulder replacement to see if doing exercises at home works as well as going to a physical therapist. Patients were split into two groups: one did formal PT starting a few days after surgery and continuing weekly for three months, while the other followed a surgeon-directed home program. Researchers measured pain, range of motion, and patient-reported function over two years to find out which approach leads to better recovery and whether PT raises the risk of complications like fractures or dislocations.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Physical therapy (PT) vs. home exercise program
What this could lead to: If this study shows home therapy works as well as clinic PT, it could give patients a simpler, cheaper recovery option after shoulder replacement.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with only 100 people, so results may not apply to everyone. It compares two rehab approaches, not a new treatment, so no major breakthrough is expected.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

osteoarthritis rotator cuff syndrome Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ROTATOR CUFF TEAR ARTHROPATHY SHOULDER ARTHRITIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Anderson Orthopedic Clinic

Arlington, Virginia, 22206, United States
Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

Leonardtown, Maryland, 20650, United States
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital

Washington D.C., District of Columbia, 20007, United States
New England Baptist Hospital

Dedham, Massachusetts, 02026, United States
Rush University Medical Center

Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, United States
Western Orthopaedics

Denver, Colorado, 80218, United States

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