Comparing slow and accelerated rehabilitation after shoulder surgery

Effects of Slow and Accelerated Rehabilitation Protocols After Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

NA · Hacettepe University · NCT05450510

This study is testing whether a slower or faster rehabilitation program after shoulder surgery helps people with severe rotator cuff tears recover better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment38 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorHacettepe University (other)
Locations1 site (Kırşehir)
Trial IDNCT05450510 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of two different rehabilitation protocols—slow and accelerated—following latissimus dorsi transfer surgery for patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears. The research will involve patients aged 18-65 who have not responded to conservative treatments for at least six months. Participants will be assessed based on their recovery outcomes, including pain reduction and functional improvement, to determine which rehabilitation approach yields better results. The study will utilize a randomized design to ensure robust comparisons between the two protocols.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears who have not benefited from conservative treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, neurological issues, or other specific contraindications will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies that enhance recovery and reduce pain for patients undergoing shoulder surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While latissimus dorsi transfer is an established treatment, the comparison of rehabilitation protocols is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* being in the age range of 18-65 years
* being diagnosed with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears based on magnetic resonance imaging and clinical continuity tests
* symptoms are unresponsive to conservative care including steroid injections and physiotherapy for at least 6 months
* having a good command of the Turkish language
* scoring above 24 in the Mini Mental State Test
* ≥80% compliance in completing the post-ARCR Phase 1 trainings
* volunteering to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* diabetes mellitus
* neurological problems
* cervical disc herniation
* visual, verbal, and/or cognitive defects (aphasia, unilateral neglect, etc.)
* systemic inflammatory problems
* hypermobility, trauma, and/or inflammation that could be a contraindication for mobilization
* former shoulder fractures on the affected side
* advanced glenohumeral arthritis (Hamada grade 3),
* deltoid muscle dysfunction,
* irreparable subscapularis tears,
* active infection,
* shoulder stiffness,
* a history of previous shoulder surgery

Where this trial is running

Kırşehir

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Rotator Cuff Injuries, Rotator Cuff Tears, Pain, Shoulder, tear, pain, shoulder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.