Comparing early and delayed rehabilitation after shoulder surgery for fractures
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Early Versus Delayed Rehabilitation After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fracture
Run by University of Virginia · NCT06869343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Virginia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charlottesville, Virginia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 19, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06869343 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50-85 who are undergoing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have previously undergone rTSA on the same shoulder or those undergoing elective rTSA may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While early rehabilitation has shown promise in elective rTSA cases, this specific approach in trauma settings is less explored, making it a novel investigation.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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University of Virginia Medical Center
Charlottesville, Virginia, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Seth Yarboro, MD — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Lori Elder
- Email: LJE5U@uvahealth.org
- Phone: 434-924-8570
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.