Each of the following is correct about precautions that should be taken after repair of a full-thickness rotator cuff tear associated with chronic impingement except:
A)After a traditional open repair for a massive cuff tear, postpone active ROM exercises until about 2 weeks postoperatively to avoid avulsion of the deltoid that was detached and reattached during the procedure.
B)When the patient is lying in the supine position during the early postoperative days, place a folded towel under the humerus to position the arm slightly anterior to the frontal plane of the body to minimize anterior translation of the head of the humerus and the potential for impingement.
C)Before initiating active elevation of the arm in the sitting or standing position, restore strength in the rotator cuff muscles, especially the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, to prevent superior translation of the head of the humerus during active elevation of the arm.
D)Delay weight-bearing/closed-chain exercises on the operated upper extremity for about 6 weeks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Active ROM exercises can be initiated soon after surgery but should be done cautiously to avoid excessive tension on the sutured cuff. Postponing active ROM exercises until 2 weeks after surgery is not necessary.

Answer: D
 Weight-bearing/closed-chain exercises can put excessive stress on the healing cuff and should be avoided for about 6 weeks after surgery.

Option B and C are correct statements about precautions that should be taken after repair of a full-thickness rotator cuff tear associated with chronic impingement.

Each of the Following Is Correct About Precautions That Should