How shoulder immobilization after surgery influences daily activity - a prospective pedometer-based study

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Physical Activity Research

Background:

• Immobilization, particularly of the lower extremity, is linked to decreased physical activity post-orthopaedic surgery.
• Prior studies indicated reduced activity even after shoulder immobilization in healthy individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of shoulder immobilization following reconstructive surgery on patients' physical activity levels.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 40 patients from May 2019 to December 2020.
• Daily activity (step counts, active time) measured using Fitbit™ Inspire before, immediately after discharge, and three weeks post-surgery.
• Range of motion and pain (Visual Analog Scale - VAS) were also documented.

Main Results:

• Significant decrease in daily steps immediately post-surgery (9728.8 to 6022.6, p < 0.05).
• Follow-up showed increased steps but remained significantly lower than pre-surgery levels (mean 8833.2).
• Shift from "active" to "low active" behavior, with sedentary behavior nearly tripling (12.5% to 30%).

Conclusions:

• Upper limb immobilization in adults substantially restricts general physical activity.
• Activity-enhancing interventions should be integrated early in the rehabilitation phase after upper extremity surgery.