Successful Outcomes Achieved Via Web-based, Home Program after Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) aims to reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
• Physical therapy is crucial for post-TSA recovery.
• Emerging evidence supports physician-guided, internet-based rehabilitation programs as alternatives to traditional therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the outcomes of TSA patients participating in a web-based, home therapy program.
• To evaluate functional improvements and range of motion following TSA with online rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of TSA patients offered a web-based home therapy program.
• Collection of functional outcomes preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months post-surgery.
• Recording of physical examination parameters at multiple pre- and post-operative time points.

Main Results:

• Forty-seven patients completed the study with full follow-up data.
• Significant improvements observed in all measured range of motion parameters and functional scores.
• One complication reported: a subscapularis rupture requiring surgical repair.

Conclusions:

• Web-based therapy programs can lead to successful outcomes in TSA patients.
• Further research is needed to compare online therapy with traditional outpatient programs.
• Identifying barriers to web-based therapy utilization is essential for future development.