Comparing early and delayed rehabilitation after shoulder surgery for fractures

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Early Versus Delayed Rehabilitation After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fracture

Not applicable Interventional University of Virginia · NCT06869343

This study is testing whether starting physical therapy two weeks or six weeks after shoulder surgery helps patients recover better from their fractures.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Virginia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charlottesville, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT06869343 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effects of early versus delayed rehabilitation on patients who undergo reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) for proximal humerus fractures. It is a randomized controlled trial where participants will be assigned to start physical rehabilitation either two weeks or six weeks after surgery. The primary focus is to assess differences in range of motion, patient-reported outcomes, and postoperative complications between the two groups. The study aims to provide insights into the optimal timing for rehabilitation to enhance recovery in this patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50-85 who are undergoing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously undergone rTSA on the same shoulder or those undergoing elective rTSA may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing shoulder surgery for fractures.

How similar studies have performed: While early rehabilitation has shown promise in elective rTSA cases, this specific approach in trauma settings is less explored, making it a novel investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* aged 50-85 undergo reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty by a single surgeon for proximal humerus fractures

Exclusion Criteria:

* previous rTSA to ipsilateral shoulder
* undergoing elective rTSA
* Prisoners
* unwilling to be randomized
* unwilling or unable to attend follow up visits

Where this trial is running

Charlottesville, Virginia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Orthopedic DisorderHumerus FractureShoulder ArthroplastyReverse Shoulder Replacement
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.