Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 16, 2025
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
Comparison of abduction neutral rotation brace versus conventional arm sling following arthroscopic rotator cuff
Thongchai Laohathaimongkol1, Thada Wipatasinlapin2, Chavithorn Ongkanchana1
1Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital, Chon Buri, Thailand.
Purpose:
To compare postoperative range of motion (ROM), pain and functional outcomes in patients immobilized with an abduction neutral rotation brace (ANRB) versus a conventional arm sling following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).
Methods:
Thirty patients aged 40-75 years with full-thickness supraspinatus and/or infraspinatus tear undergoing ARCR were randomized to immobilized using either an abduction neutral rotation brace (n = 16) or a conventional arm sling (n = 16). Outcomes including ROM, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and Constant-Murley score (CMS) were assessed preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.
Results:
At 3 months, patients in the abduction neutral rotation brace group demonstrated significantly greater forward flexion and external rotation compared to the arm sling group (P < 0.05). VAS pain scores were significantly lower at 6 weeks and 6 months in the brace group (P < 0.05). CMS showed no significant difference between groups at final follow-up. No re-tears or complications were observed in either group.
Conclusion:
Use of an abduction neutral rotation brace after ARCR results in improved early postoperative ROM and pain control compared to a conventional arm sling. This technique may facilitate earlier rehabilitation and higher patient satisfaction.
Level Of Evidence:
Level I; Randomized Controlled Trial.
