Treatment of instability of the shoulder with an exercise program

Retrospective analysis of decision-making in post-traumatic posterior shoulder instability

PURPOSE

This study aims to assess the clinical outcomes in the management of post-traumatic posterior shoulder instability (PSI) with a focus on the decision-making process for operative and conservative treatments.

INTRODUCTION

PSI can result from traumatic events, impacting a patient's quality of life. This study delves to better indicate decision-making for operative indication of post-traumatic PSI patients.

METHODS

Patients who sustained posterior shoulder dislocations were selected from a single surgeon's database within a five-year period. Cases of degenerative or genetically caused PSI were excluded, resulting in a cohort of 28. Patients were initially managed conservatively but indicated for surgery if they were unable to actively stabilize the shoulder or exhibited bony or cartilage defects confirmed through imaging. If conservative treatment did not yield significant improvements, it was classified as a failure, and operative intervention was recommended. The WOSI Score, ROM, and X-ray were employed to evaluate the success of treatment.

RESULTS

Out of the 28 patients, 11 received conservative, seven immediate surgeries, and ten transitioned from conservative to operative treatment. The overall success rate showed 25 good to excellent results. In the persistent conservative treatment group, the initial WOSI score was significantly lower compared to the operative group.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that post-traumatic PSI can be successfully managed conservatively with initial low clinical symptoms (low WOSI score) and in the absence of absolute indications for operative treatment. When surgery is necessary, arthroscopic procedures proved effective in achieving good to excellent results in 16 out of 17 cases.

Recurrent bilateral atraumatic shoulder dislocation in a young patient with bilateral shoulder multidirectional instability: Treatment consideration and description of a surgical technique

INTRODUCTION

Multidirectional instability is defined as symptomatic glenohumeral joint subluxation or dislocation occurring in more than one direction. Multidirectional shoulder instability with recurrent shoulder dislocation is a rare condition with controversies in the literature about the best treatment strategy. Physiotherapy remains the initial treatment of choice, and surgical intervention should be performed only if debilitating symptoms continue to be experienced.

CASE PRESENTATION

A young healthy male presented with bilateral shoulder multidirectional instability and recurrent shoulders atraumatic dislocation. The patient was treated with a supervised physiotherapy regimen, which succeeded on his non-dominant shoulder but failed on the contralateral dominant side. A surgical technique aimed at reducing the right shoulder capsule volume to gain stability was performed and described in detail in this paper. Patient was able to return to his normal daily activities, including sports, without new complaints.

DISCUSSION

The aim of surgery is to restore passive stability by reducing the shoulder capsular volume. Common surgical techniques for Multidirectional instability include an inferior capsular shift and open or arthroscopic capsular plication with variable outcomes have been proposed in the literature.

CONCLUSION

Surgical management should be individualized to address the anatomical cause of instability and should only be considered if conservative treatment with supervised physiotherapy fails. Using an arthroscopic grasper to apply appropriate capsule traction and tension while performing the plication and using an extra superior anchor contributed to attaining optimal capsular volume reduction.

Physical therapy management of an athlete with a Kim lesion using physical agents, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise: a case report

BACKGROUND

Several operative procedures have been described for treating a Kim lesion. However, no physical therapy intervention has been documented as conservative treatment for these cases.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this report was to describe a physical therapy management protocol for an athlete with a Kim lesion.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 22-year-old female volleyball athlete presented to physical therapy with an 8-month history of right shoulder pain when performing the serve and attack sports gestures. Pain was 5/10 on the visual analogue scale (VAS). Pain was localized along the glenohumeral joint, around the long head of the biceps brachii tendon, and at the subscapularis tendon insertion. Shoulder range of motion (ROM) was limited to flexion (150°), abduction (158°), and internal rotation (80°). Kim lesion was confirmed by clinical tests (Kim test and Jerk test) and via magnetic resonance imaging. Shoulder functional outcomes were verified through the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating scale. Upper extremity sensorimotor control was verified in bimanual support by stabilometry on a baropodometer. Core function was assessed through a plank test and a side plank test. The 8-week course of treatment included manual therapy, physical agents, shoulder and scapular mobilizations, resistance and sensorimotor exercises, core strengthening, and functional exercises.

OUTCOMES

Physical therapy interventions resulted in a decrease in VAS pain (3/10), an increase in shoulder ROM (10.8°) and in UCLA shoulder score (from 22 to 33 points), a reduction in the center of pressure displacement (27-56%), and an increase in plank test (45%) and side plank test (21-29%) performance. The athlete had a full return to sport after the treatment.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that the protocol used for conservative management of Kim lesion resulted in clinical satisfactory physical and functional outcomes for the athlete.

Determining the True Incidence of Glenohumeral Instability Among Players in the National Football League: An Epidemiological Study of Non-Missed Time Shoulder Instability Injuries

Background

Shoulder instability encompasses a spectrum of glenohumeral pathology ranging from subluxation to dislocation. While dislocation frequently leads to removal from play, athletes are often able to play through subluxation. Previous research on glenohumeral instability among athletes has largely focused on missed-time injuries, which has likely disproportionately excluded subluxation injuries and underestimated the overall incidence of shoulder instability.

Purpose

To describe the epidemiology of shoulder instability injuries resulting in no missed time beyond the date of injury (non-missed time injuries) among athletes in the National Football League (NFL).

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

The NFL's electronic medical record was retrospectively reviewed to identify non-missed time shoulder instability injuries during the 2015 through 2019 seasons. For each injury, player age, player position, shoulder laterality, instability type, instability direction, injury timing, injury setting, and injury mechanism were recorded. For injuries that occurred during games, incidence rates were calculated based on time during the season as well as player position. The influence of player position on instability direction was also investigated.

Results

Of the 546 shoulder instability injuries documented during the study period, 162 were non-missed time injuries. The majority of non-missed time injuries were subluxations (97.4%), occurred during games (70.7%), and resulted from a contact mechanism (91.2%). The overall incidence rate of game-related instability was 1.6 injuries per 100,000 player-plays and was highest during the postseason (3.5 per 100,000 player-plays). The greatest proportion of non-missed time injuries occurred in defensive secondary players (28.4%) and offensive linemen (19.8%), while kickers/punters and defensive secondary players had the highest game incidence rates (5.5 and 2.1 per 100,000 player-plays, respectively). In terms of direction, 54.3% of instability events were posterior, 31.9% anterior, 8.5% multidirectional, and 5.3% inferior. Instability events were most often anterior among linebackers and wide receivers (50% and 100%, respectively), while posterior instability was most common in defensive linemen (66.7%), defensive secondary players (58.6%), quarterbacks (100.0%), running backs (55.6%), and tight ends (75.0%).

Conclusion

The majority of non-missed time shoulder instability injuries (97.4%) were subluxations, which were likely excluded from or underreported in previous shoulder instability studies due to the inherent difficulty of detecting and diagnosing shoulder subluxation.

Arthroscopic Posterior Bone Block Procedure With Two Cortical Buttons Fixation and Specific Glenoid Guide for Posterior Shoulder Instability

Arthroscopic posterior bone block procedure using cortical screws has been reported since 2012 for management of recurrent posterior instability associated with bone defects. To avoid screw complications, we describe a full arthroscopic technique based on cortical button fixation. With 4 portals (posterior, poster lateral, anterior, and anterolateral), we use a specific glenoid guiding system (to perform 2 tunnels) and 2 cortical buttons fixation. With a specific glenoid guide, the iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) is secured to the posterior glenoid rim by fixation with 2 cortical buttons. The ICBG is positioned protruding outside the joint through the space, and the posterior capsule is repaired while maintaining an extra-articular bone graft. The protruding bone graft increases the concavity of the glenoid with a progressive bony remodeling to improve the posterior stability of the shoulder in our clinical experience.

A systematic review to compare physiotherapy treatment programmes for atraumatic shoulder instability

Background

Optimal physiotherapy treatment is uncertain for atraumatic shoulder instability (ASI), the primary aim of this systematic scoping review was to compare physiotherapy treatment programmes for people with ASI. The secondary aims were to evaluate outcome measures used and to compare the effectiveness of these programmes.

Methods

CINAHL, EMBASE and Medline databases were searched for studies, except single case studies, published between 1950 and July 2021. 12 critical appraisal items covered three domains; internal validity, transferability to wider population and reporting.

Results

Ten studies were included; one randomised controlled trial, 6 cohort studies and 3 case series. There were 491 participants. Treatment programmes included education, movement re-education, static posture correction, shoulder muscle strengthening, functional training, and adjuncts. All studies used patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), 7 of which reported a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) post-treatment. There was no clear relationship between programmes and outcomes. PROMs specific to shoulder instability were all found to detect statistically significant differences post-treatment.

Discussion

There does not appear to be one optimal physiotherapy treatment programme for ASI. Future studies should use PROMs that are valid in the shoulder instability population and use more outcome measures that are specific to impairments being targeted.

Comprehensive Review of Multidirectional Instability of the Shoulder

Multidirectional instability of the shoulder can result from underlying atraumatic laxity, from repetitive microtrauma, or from a traumatic injury and often occurs in association with generalized ligamentous laxity or underlying connective tissue disorders. It is critical to differentiate multidirectional instability from unidirectional instability with or without generalized laxity to maximize treatment success. Although rehabilitation is still considered the primary treatment method for this condition, surgical treatment in the form of open inferior capsular shift or arthroscopic pancapsulolabral plication is indicated if conservative treatment fails. Recent biomechanical and clinical research has shown that there is still room for improvement in the treatment methods offered to this specific patient cohort. Potential treatment options, such as various methods to improve cross-linking of native collagen tissue, electric muscle stimulation to retrain the abnormally functioning dynamic stabilizers of the shoulder, and alternative surgical techniques such as coracohumeral ligament reconstruction and bone-based augmentation procedures, are brought forth in this article as potential avenues to explore in the future.

Pediatric and Adolescent Shoulder Instability

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Traumatic and atraumatic shoulder instability is common in pediatric and adolescent patients. It is well-established that young patients with anterior shoulder dislocation are at high risk of recurrent instability. This review assesses the current literature pertaining to management of both anterior instability and MDI in the pediatric and adolescent populations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current research suggests that pediatric and adolescent patients with shoulder instability have excellent outcomes following arthroscopic Bankart repair; however, higher rates of recurrent instability requiring revision surgical management have been identified in patients with more than one dislocation episode pre-operatively, those with Hill-Sachs lesions and those under age 16. The addition of the remplissage procedure to an arthroscopic Bankart repair may be useful in preventing recurrent instability for patients with large Hill-Sachs lesions. Open procedures with bony glenoid augmentation may be indicated in patients with significant glenoid bone loss, or those who have failed primary surgical management, with promising outcomes reported following the Latarjet coracoid process transfer procedure in the adolescent population. Pediatric and adolescent patients with hyperlaxity, and those participating in swimming or gymnastics are more likely to have multidirectional instability (MDI). Non-surgical management with physical therapy is the mainstay of treatment for MDI with positive outcomes reported overall. In young patients with MDI who continue to have symptoms of instability and pain that effects daily activities or sports despite an adequate and appropriate course of rehabilitation, surgical management with capsulorrhaphy may be considered, with promising outcomes reported for both open and arthroscopic techniques. Attentive selection of timing and surgical procedure for pediatric and adolescent patients with anterior shoulder instability may help to prevent recurrent instability following shoulder stabilization. Although most pediatric and adolescent patients with MDI do well following non-surgical management alone, those that fail conservative management have good outcomes following arthroscopic or open capsulorrhaphy.

Management of Shoulder Instability in Patients with Underlying Hyperlaxity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Shoulder instability in patients with underlying joint hyperlaxity can be challenging to treat. Poorly defined terminology, heterogeneous treatments, and sparse reports on clinical outcomes impair the development of best practices in this patient population. This article provides a review of the current literature regarding optimal management of patients suffering from shoulder instability with concomitant hyperlaxity of the shoulder, from isolated shoulder joint hyperlaxity to congenital hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD).

RECENT FINDINGS

Current research shows specialized physiotherapy protocols focused on strengthening of periscapular muscles and improvement of sensorimotor control are a promising non-surgical therapeutic avenue in certain patients, which can be augmented by device-based intervention in select cases. If surgical treatment is warranted, arthroscopic techniques such as pancapsular shift or plication continue to demonstrate favorable outcomes and are currently considered the benchmark for success. The long-term success of more recent innovations such as coracoid process transfers, conjoint tendon transfers, subscapularis tendon augmentation, and capsular reconstruction remains unproven. For patients affected by connective tissue disorders, treatment success is generally less predictable, and the entire array of non-operative and operative interventions needs to be considered to achieve the best patient-specific treatment results. In the treatment of shoulder instability and concomitant hyperlaxity, specialized physiotherapy protocols augmented by device-based interventions have emerged as powerful, non-operative treatment options for select patients. Successful surgical approaches have been demonstrated to comprehensively address capsular redundancy, labral lesions, and incompetence of additional passive stabilizers in a patient-specific fashion, respective of the underlying connective tissue constitution.

Physical Therapy for the Treatment of Shoulder Instability

Shoulder instability is the separation of the humeral head from the glenoid. Injury to the static and dynamic stabilizers can result in instability. Anterior shoulder instability is the predominant form of instability. It is usually a result of trauma. Posterior shoulder instability often presents with an insidious onset of pain. Multidirectional instability of the shoulder is symptomatic laxity in more than one plane of motion. The primary goal of rehabilitation is to restore pain-free mobility, strength, and functioning. Rehabilitation implements range of motion and strengthening exercises to restore proprioceptive control and scapular kinematics.

Multidirectional instability of the shoulder: surgical techniques and clinical outcome

Multidirectional instability of the shoulder has a complex pathoanatomy. It is characterized by a redundant glenohumeral capsule and increased joint volume. Subtle clinical presentation, unclear trauma history and multifactorial etiology poseses a great challenge for orthopedic surgeons in terms of diagnosis. Generally accepted therapeutic approach is conservative and the majority of patients achieve good results with rehabilitation. In patients who are symptomatic despite appropriate rehabilitation, surgical intervention may be considered. Good results have been obtained with open inferior capsular surgery, which has historically been performed in these patients. In recent years, advanced arthroscopic techniques have taken place in this field, and similar results compared to open surgery have been obtained with the less-invasive arthroscopic capsular plication procedure.

Managing Shoulder Instability in the Overhead Athlete

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Shoulder instability in the overhead athlete is a difficult problem because of the balance between necessary laxity for athletic movements and stability of the joint. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the clinical evaluation of shoulder instability in the overhead athlete and present evidence-based management strategies for each subtype of shoulder instability, including novel techniques and outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent investigation has shown that throwers and other overhead athletes are more likely to present with subtle subluxation events rather than discrete dislocations as their primary symptom. While overhead athletes with discrete anterior dislocation events are likely to begin with non-operative management, many progress on to surgical intervention. Surgical management of glenohumeral joint instability continues to pose challenges due to the potential for over-tensioning for the sake of stability at the expense of the adaptive laxity that often confers performance benefits in the overhead athlete. Novel, individualized, and sport/position specific approaches are needed to address this complex issue. The optimal management of shoulder instability in the overhead athlete continues to be a controversial topic due to the complex work-up, an increasing number of surgical options with varying indications, and low volume of high-quality studies comparing any of the treatment options. The Anterior Shoulder Instability International Consensus Group guidelines from February 2022 offer the most updated guidelines on work-up and management. Overall, high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to determine the optimal treatment for specific pathologies and aid in creating patient-centered management plans.

Advances in the Non-Operative Management of Multidirectional Instability of the Glenohumeral Joint

Multidirectional instability (MDI) of the glenohumeral joint refers to symptomatic subluxations or dislocations in more than one direction. The aetiology of MDI is multifactorial, which makes the classification of this condition challenging. A shoulder rehabilitation program is the initial recommended treatment for MDI, however available rehabilitation programs have varying levels of evidence to support their effectiveness. In 2016, we published the details of an evidence-based program for MDI that has been evaluated for efficacy in two single-group studies and a randomised controlled trial. In 2017, we published a clinical commentary on the aetiology, classification, and treatment of this condition. The aim of this paper is to provide an update on the components of these publications with a particular focus on new advances in the non-operative management of this condition.

Retear After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Results in Functional Outcome Deterioration Over Time

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of retear on long-term functional outcomes and glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis (OA) progression after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ASRCR).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 201 patients who underwent ASRCR and were followed up for at least 5 years. Rotator cuff tendon structural integrity was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging and/or ultrasonography. Pain, active range of motion, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) were evaluated for functional outcomes. To evaluate deterioration over time, the minimal clinically important difference value of pain and ASES were used.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 8.6 ± 2.2 years and overall retear rate was 21.4%. OA progression was strongly associated with retear (odds ratio 5.1, P < .001). Functional outcomes at the 2-year postoperative follow-up significantly improved compared to the preoperative status (all P < .017), regardless of retear. However, the retear group presented worse functional outcomes at the final follow-up (pain: 3.1 ± 2.6; ASES: 72.0 ± 17.4) than at the 2-year postoperative follow-up (pain: 1.2 ± 2.3, P = .014; ASES: 91.1 ± 9.9, P= .015) than the healed tendon group at final follow-up (pain: .6 ± 1.7; P < .001; ASES 95.5 ± 11.8; P < .001). The time for deterioration of pain (healed group vs. retear group: 5.5 ± 0.5 vs. 10.6 ± 0.4 years; P < .001) and ASES (healed group vs. retear group: 7.5 ± 0.5 vs. 12.8 ± 0.2 years; P < .001) decreased in the retear group.

CONCLUSIONS

The functional status improved after ASRCR in short- and long-term follow-up, regardless of retear. However, retear was strongly associated with OA progression, and long-term functional outcomes deteriorated over time in retear cases, which was not observed during short-term follow-up.

STUDY DESIGN

III, retrospective cohort study.

Home-based exercise therapy for treating shoulder instability in patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome/hypermobility spectrum disorders. A randomized trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the effectiveness of two home-based exercise programs for treating multidirectional shoulder instability (MDI) in patients diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD).

METHODS

Twenty-one hEDS/HSD patients with MDI were recruited from the Center for Medical Genetics of the Ghent University Hospital. Patients were randomly assigned to either the experimental or the control group. Both groups received a 6-month home-based exercise program. The primary outcome measure was the Western Ontario Shoulder Index (WOSI). Secondary outcomes included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), Global Rating of Change (GROC), and pain pressure thresholds. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, after 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks.

RESULTS

Significant main effects for time were observed for all questionnaires, except for the TSK (p = 0.12). Patients improved 240 and 325 points on the WOSI after 12 (p = 0.02) and 24 weeks (p = 0.001), respectively. Additionally, patients improved 8.6 points on the DASH (p = 0.002), 4.3 points on the PSFS (p = 0.01), and 1.02 points on the GROC (p = 0.001) after 24 weeks.

CONCLUSION

No significant differences were found between group A and B. Both home-based exercise programs led to significant improvements in shoulder function. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONHome-based exercise therapy may be effective for treating MDI in the hEDS/HSD population.Home-based training is beneficial for improving shoulder function, but a multidisciplinary, supervised approach might be more effective for altering kinesiophobia in this patient population.

Rehabilitation for atraumatic shoulder instability in circus arts performers: delivery via telehealth

BACKGROUND

The Watson Instability Program (WIP1) is current best evidence for conservative management of atraumatic shoulder instability, but it is unknown if this program can be effectively delivered via tele-consultation. The purpose of this longitudinal pre-post intervention study was to determine the effects of the WIP1 on patient-reported outcome measures, scapular position, shoulder strength, and handstand stability in student circus performers with atraumatic shoulder instability when delivered via tele-consultation.

METHODS

Student circus performers aged between 15 and 35 years from the National Institute of Circus Arts were recruited. A 12-week shoulder exercise program was delivered via tele-consultation during the Melbourne, Australia COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) lockdown. The primary outcome measures were the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index score and the Melbourne Instability Shoulder Scale score. Secondary outcomes measures included the Orebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire, the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, and physical assessment measures including strength via handheld dynamometry, scapular position using an inclinometer, and handstand stability via center-of-pressure fluctuation. Patient-reported outcomes were collected at baseline and 6-week, 12-week, 6-month, and 9-month time points, and physical outcomes were measured at baseline and 9-month time points. A repeated-measures mixed model (with effect sizes [ESs] and 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) was used to analyze patient-reported outcomes, handstand data, strength, and scapular measures. Significance was set at P < .05.

RESULTS

Twenty-three student circus arts performers completed the study. Significant improvements were found in both Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index scores (effect size [ES], 0.79 [95% CI, 0.31-1.33] at 6 weeks; ES, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.55-1.6] at 12 weeks; ES, 1.17 [95% CI, 0.62-1.78] at 6 months; and ES, 1.31 [95% CI, 0.74-1.95] at 9 months; P < .001) and Melbourne Instability Shoulder Scale scores (ES, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.22-1.22] at 6 weeks; ES, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.34-1.37] at 3 months; ES, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.46-1.54] at 6 months; and ES, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.43-1.50] at 9 months; P < .001), as well as Orebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire scores at all follow-up time points. The Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia scores reached significance at 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Following rehabilitation, we found statistically significant increases in shoulder strength in all positions tested and increased scapular upward rotation measured at end-of-range abduction, as well as during loaded external rotation. The affected arm showed greater instability than the unaffected arm with a significant intervention effect on the affected arm showing a greater consistent anterior-posterior movement pattern.

CONCLUSION

In a group of circus performers with atraumatic shoulder instability, treatment with the WIP1 via telehealth resulted in clinically and statistically significant improvements in shoulder symptoms and function.

Band Pull-Apart Exercise: Effects of Movement Direction and Hand Position on Shoulder Muscle Activity

Background/Purpose

The Elastic band pull-apart exercise is commonly used in rehabilitation. It involves pulling an elastic resistance band with both hands in horizontal abduction or diagonal arm movements. The extent of muscle activation during this exercise is unknown. The purpose of this study was to measure the electromyographic (EMG) activity of shoulder-girdle muscles during the pull-apart exercise using resistance bands and to determine the effects of arm position and movement direction on shoulder-girdle muscle activity.

Materials/Methods

Surface EMG activity was measured on the infraspinatus, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, lower trapezius and posterior deltoid of the dominant shoulder. After measurement of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) for each muscle, subjects performed the band pull-apart exercise in three hand positions (palm up, neutral, palm down) and three movement directions (diagonal up, horizontal, diagonal down). Elastic band resistance was chosen to elicit moderate exertion (5/10 on the Borg CR10 scale). The order of the exercises was randomized and three repetitions of each exercise were performed. Mean peak EMG activity in each muscle across the repetitions was calculated and expressed as a percentage of MVC. Peak normalized EMG activity in each muscle was compared in two-way (hand position x direction) repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results

Data were collected from 10 healthy subjects (all males, age 36±12 years). Peak muscle activity ranged from 15.3% to 72.6% of MVC across muscles and exercise conditions. There was a significant main effect of hand position for the infraspinatus and lower trapezius, where muscle activity was highest with the palm up hand position (p < 0.001), and for the upper trapezius and posterior deltoid, where muscle activity was highest with the palm down position (p-value range < 0.001-0.004). There was a significant main effect of movement direction, where the diagonal up direction demonstrated the highest muscle activity for the infraspinatus, upper trapezius, lower trapezius, and posterior deltoid (p-value range < 0.001-0.02).

Conclusion

Altering hand position and movement direction during performance of an elastic band pull-apart exercise can affect magnitudes of shoulder-girdle muscle activity. Clinicians may alter a patient's hand position and movement direction while performing the band pull-apart exercise in order to increase muscle activity in target muscles or diminish muscle activity in other muscles.

Level of Evidence

2b.

Nonoperative Management of Posterior Shoulder Instability: What Are the Long-Term Clinical Outcomes?

OBJECTIVE

To report the injury characteristics, radiographic findings, and long-term outcomes of nonoperative management for posterior shoulder instability (PSI).

DESIGN

A retrospective review of 143 patients with PSI using a large geographic database.

SETTING

Single county between January 1994 and July 2012.

PATIENTS

A clinical history and diagnosis of PSI, one confirmatory imaging study to support the diagnosis, and a minimum of 5 years follow-up were required for inclusion. Patients with seizure disorders, anterior-only instability, multidirectional instability, and superior labrum from anterior to posterior diagnosis were excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients with PSI were managed nonoperatively or operatively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pain, recurrent instability, and progression into glenohumeral osteoarthritis at long-term follow-up.

RESULTS

One hundred fifteen patients were identified. Thirty-seven (32%) underwent nonoperative management. Twenty (54%) patients were diagnosed with posterior subluxation, 3 (8%) with a single dislocation, and 7 (19%) with multiple dislocations. Symptomatic progression of glenohumeral arthritis was observed in 8% (3) of patients. Pain improved in 46% (17) of patients and worsened in 19% (7). Recurrent instability and progression to osteoarthritis occurred in 15% (3/20) of patients with a traumatic instability event compared with 0% of atraumatic patients after nonoperative management (P = 0.234). Pain at follow-up was more common in nonoperative than operative patients (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Nonoperative management is a viable option for many patients with posterior shoulder instability; however, many may continue to have posterior shoulder pain.

Bone Block Augmentation of the Posterior Glenoid for Recurrent Posterior Shoulder Instability Is Associated With High Rates of Clinical Failure: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To determine whether posterior glenoid bone block augmentation performed for the treatment of recurrent posterior shoulder instability succeeds in restoring stability and is associated with rates of complications or clinical failures comparable to other glenoid bone augmentation procedures.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases was performed. Level of evidence studies I to IV pertaining to posterior bone block augmentation reporting on outcomes or complications were included. The search was carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

RESULTS

Screening of titles, abstracts, and manuscripts with application of inclusion and exclusion criteria yielded 17 full-text articles reporting on 269 shoulders undergoing bone block augmentation. Surgical technique varied between studies with regard to graft type (iliac crest, 13 studies; scapular spine, 2; acromion, 1; distal tibia allograft, 1), graft positioning (medial to 1.5 cm lateral to glenoid surface, equatorial to subequatorial), and open versus arthroscopic technique (open, 10 studies; arthroscopic, 4; both, 3). Four of the 8 studies with pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs) showed significant improvements in these outcomes at final follow-up. The postoperative outcomes ranged from 60 to 90 for Rowe scores (n = 7 studies) and 79 to 90 for Walch-Duplay scores (n = 7 studies). Complications were commonly encountered, with high rates of recurrent instability (0% to 73%) and revision procedures (0% to 67%) across different studies.

CONCLUSION

Posterior bone block augmentation for recurrent posterior shoulder instability does not reliably yield substantial improvements in PROs, and complications are frequently observed. The substantial heterogeneity across studies and the small number of patients precludes any substantive judgements as to the superiority of one surgical technique over another.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, systematic review of level III and IV studies.

Conservative treatment of acute traumatic posterior shoulder dislocations (Type A) is a viable option especially in patients with centred joint, low gamma angle, and middle or old age

PURPOSE

Purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid- to long-term outcome after conservatively treated first-time posterior shoulder dislocations and to determine structural defects associated with failure.

METHODS

In this multi-centric retrospective study, 29 shoulders in 28 patients with first-time acute posterior shoulder dislocation (Type A1 or A2 according to the ABC classification) and available cross-sectional imaging were included. Outcome scores as well as radiological and magnetic resonance imaging were obtained at a mean follow-up of 8.3 ± 2.7 years (minimum: 5 years). The association of structural defects with redislocation, need for secondary surgery, and inferior clinical outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

Redislocation occurred in six (21%) shoulders and nine shoulders (31%) underwent secondary surgery due to persistent symptoms. The posttraumatic posterior glenohumeral subluxation was higher in the redislocation group compared to the no redislocation group; however, statistical significance was not reached (61.9 ± 12.5% vs. 50.6 ± 6.4%). Furthermore, a higher adapted gamma angle was observed in the failed conservative treatment group versus the conservative treatment group, similarly without statistically significant difference (97.8° ± 7.2°, vs. 93.3° ± 9.7°). The adapted gamma angle was higher than 90° in all patients of failed conservative therapy and the redislocation group. An older age at the time of dislocation showed a significant correlation with better clinical outcomes (SSV: r = 0.543, p = 0.02; ROWE: r = 0.418, p = 0.035 and WOSI: r = 0.478, p = 0.045). Posterior glenohumeral subluxation after trauma correlated with a worse WOSI (r = - 0.59, p = 0.02) and follow-up posterior glenohumeral decentring (r = 0.68, p = 0.007). The gamma angle (r = 0.396, p = 0.039) and depth of the reverse Hill-Sachs lesion (r = 0.437, p = 0.023) correlated significantly with the grade of osteoarthritis at follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Conservative treatment is a viable option in patients with an acute traumatic posterior shoulder dislocation with good outcome after mid- and long-term follow-up especially in patients with centred joint, low gamma angle, and middle or old age.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Indications and outcomes of glenoid osteotomy for posterior shoulder instability: a systematic review

Background

There is limited evidence examining glenoid osteotomy as a treatment for posterior shoulder instability.

Methods

A search of Medline, Embase, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted from the date of origin to 28th November 2019. Nine out of 3,408 retrieved studies met the inclusion criteria and quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies tool.

Results

In 356 shoulders, the main indication for osteotomy was excessive glenoid retroversion (greater than or equal to approximately −10°). The mean preoperative glenoid version was −15° (range, −35° to −5°). Post-operatively, the mean glenoid version was −6° (range, −28° to 13°) and an average correction of 10° (range, −1° to 30°) was observed. Range of motion increased significantly in most studies and all standardized outcome scores (Rowe, Constant–Murley, Oxford instability, Japan Shoulder Society Shoulder Instability Scoring and mean shoulder value) improved significantly with high rates of patient satisfaction (85%). A high complication rate (34%, n = 120) was reported post-surgery, with frequent cases of persistent instability (20%, n = 68) and fractures (e.g., glenoid neck and acromion) (4%, n = 12). However, the revision rate was low (0.6%, n = 2).

Conclusion

Glenoid osteotomy is an appropriate treatment for posterior shoulder instability secondary to excessive glenoid retroversion. However, the high rate of persistent instability should be considered when making treatment decisions. Level of Evidence: Systematic review; Level 4

Atraumatic shoulder instability: patient characteristics, comorbidities, and disability

Background

Atraumatic shoulder instability of the shoulder is well described, and numerous extrinsic factors have been identified as having a negative influence on long-term shoulder function, including age, sex, smoking, and workers' compensation status. Furthermore, physical factors such as acute or chronic pain, as well as psychological comorbidities such as depression and suicidal thoughts, are common in shoulder-related conditions.

Methods

Patients with atraumatic shoulder instability were recruited from a review of outpatient logbook and inpatient rehabilitation center admission records. Average and worst pain visual analogue scale rates were recorded for acute and chronic shoulder pain. Disability was measured using the “Disability of the Arm and Hand” score, as well as the Stanmore Percentage of Normal Shoulder Assessment (SPONSA). Depression was assessed using Becks Depression Inventory II, and further single psychological items were selected from other psychological assessment questionnaires.

Results

We included 64 patients, of which 51 (79.7%) were female. Mean visual analogue scale pain scores were in average 5.11 (standard deviation 2.24) and 5.58 (standard deviation 2.34) for acute and chronic shoulder pain, respectively. A stepwise, multiple linear regression revealed that only chronic shoulder pain remained significantly related to disability (F(1,61) = 46.13, P < .001). A second linear regression analysis was performed and showed a significant association between the overall Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and overall Becks Depression Inventory score (F(1,62) = 12.78, P < .001). A further stepwise, multiple linear regression analysis indicated that chronic pain and depression remain independent variables in the prediction of disability.

Conclusion

In addition to sociodemographic factors, pain and psychological comorbidities were found to have a negative impact on patient's functional outcome. This study further supports the need for an multidisciplinary team, holistic approach in the management of atraumatic shoulder instability patients with particular emphasis on chronic pain management and psychological support.

Management of atraumatic shoulder instability in physiotherapy (MASIP): a survey of physiotherapy practice

BACKGROUND

The impact of atraumatic shoulder instability (ASI) on patients can be extensive, its management complex, with a biopsychosocial approach recommended. Currently how physiotherapists manage ASI is unknown or the extent to which current clinical practice aligns with existing evidence. At the time of this study no national guidelines or consensus to direct practice existed.

METHODS

A cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed between July-September 2018, targeting UK-based physiotherapists managing shoulder pathology. Respondents were invited to describe their management of ASI, and rate their awareness and utilisation of various treatment techniques on a Likert-scale; median and interquartile ranges were calculated. Free text survey items were analysed using quantitative content analysis (QCA) to identify codes and categories. Means and percentages were calculated to summarise QCA and descriptive data.

RESULTS

Valid survey responses were analysed (n = 135). Respondents had between 2 and 39 years of physiotherapy experience (mean = 13.9 years); the majority (71.1 %) reported that ASI made up < 10 % of their caseload. Only 22.9 % (n = 31/135) of respondents reported feeling 'very confident' in managing ASI; the majority feeling 'somewhat confident' (70.4 %, n = 95/135) or 'not confident' (6.7 %, n = 9/135). The majority of respondents (59.3 %) used an ASI classification system, > 90 % citing the Stanmore Classification. Physiotherapists adapted their management according to clinical presentation, responding to differing biopsychosocial needs of the patient scenario. Most respondents (> 80 %) did not use a protocol to guide their management. Exercise was the most utilised management approach for ASI, followed by education; novel treatment strategies, including cortical rehabilitation, were also reported.

CONCLUSION

Findings indicate physiotherapists utilise a wide range of treatment strategies and respond to biopsychosocial cues when managing patients with ASI. The majority reported not being very confident in managing this condition, however only a minority use rehabilitation protocols to support their management. Some interventions that respondents reported using lacked evidence to support their use in ASI management and further research regarding effectiveness is required. Guidelines have been published since this survey; the impact of these will need evaluating to determine their effectiveness in the future.

Effectiveness of conservative treatment of multidirectional instability of the shoulder joint. Literature review and meta-analysis

<br><b>Introduction:</b> Multidirectional shoulder instability (MDI) occurs when the shoulder is dislocating in at least two directions. The patient usually experiences pain with apprehension and a clicking sensation inside the joint. So far, a few classification scales of shoulder instability have been made. Despite this fact, MDI is highly problematic for clinicians in diagnosis and treating.</br> <br><b>Aim:</b> This article presents the current trends in the conservative treatment of multidirectional instability, assess effectiveness of rehabilitation and indicates the directions of MDI research.</br> <br><b>Material and methods:</b> In order to find current literature and conduct a critical analysis, the following scientific database was used: Cochrane Library, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), MEDLINE and PubMed. We chose four articles which included a comparison of conservative and operative treatment, and four which evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation.</br> <br><b>Results:</b> Low quality evidence shows priority of surgical treatment over conservative treatment. The protocol developed by Watson obtains a statistically significant advantage over the Burkhead and Rockwood protocol. Discussion: The effectiveness of rehabilitation reaches different levels. Rehabilitation should last from 3 to 12 months. If rehabilitation does not achieve a sufficient effect, arthroscopic methods of reducing the volume of the articular capsule should be considered. Due to the small number of scientific reports and their quality, the obtained data should be interpreted with caution. Much further research is required to create a precise and most effective algorithm.</br> <br><b>Conclusion:</b> Rehabilitation exercises play an important role in the treatment of multidirectional instability of the shoulder joint, especially when the patient has not had an injury. Exercise types and load should be dosed individually. At present, the protocol described by Watson is the most effective.</br>

Comparison of scapular upward rotator muscle activities and activity ratios during three scapular upward rotator strengthening exercises

BACKGROUND: The focus of exercises for restoring the imbalance between scapular upward rotator muscles – upper trapezius (UT), serratus anterior (SA), and lower trapezius (LT) – commonly aims to increase SA and LT activities while not increasing UT activity. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to compare the activity of the UT, SA, and LT muscles during scapation and protraction exercises, which are two traditional exercises, and during a newly designed scapular upward rotation (SUR) exercise. METHODS: A total of 29 healthy young adult men performed all three exercises with maximum isometric contraction. The electromyographic activities of the UT, SA, and LT were recorded. RESULTS: UT demonstrated the highest activity during scapation. SA activity was the lowest during protraction. However, no difference was found in SA activity during the performance of scapation and SUR. The SA/UT ratio was the highest during scapation. CONCLUSIONS: SUR is a new exercise that can be performed at moderate intensity for shoulder rehabilitation to restore scapular upward rotator muscle imbalance.

Postoperative Rehabilitation of Multidirectional Instability Surgery: A Systematic Review

Multidirectional instability (MDI) of the shoulder is managed with surgery when conservative rehabilitation fails. The optimal postsurgical management of MDI is not well understood. The purpose of this study is to create a systematic review evaluating postsurgical rehabilitation protocols treating MDI. Articles were included if a postsurgical rehabilitation protocol was described following surgical treatment for MDI. Identified articles underwent 2 phases of screening by blinded team members. Remaining articles had their level of evidence determined by a predefined grading system, ranging from levels I to V. Articles with evidence levels I to IV were included in analysis. Of the 163 articles identified in the literature, 9 were included in this study. Surgical techniques examined in these articles include capsular plication, rotator interval closure, and capsular shift. Rehabilitation protocols were evaluated for duration of treatment and physical therapy modalities. Article results were evaluated for subjective and objective measures of protocol success. Overall, there is a lack of evidence to indicate the optimal rehabilitation protocol post-MDI surgery. Further research is needed to compare rehabilitation protocols following specific surgical procedures to determine their effect on postsurgical patient outcomes.

Capsulorraphy with Achilles allograft augmentation for shoulder instability in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of shoulder instability in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) remains challenging secondary to the pathologic nature of their connective tissue. Allograft reconstruction of the shoulder capsule in EDS has the potential to increase stability by providing healthier connective tissue. The purpose of this study was to report the surgical technique and outcome of open capsulorraphy and augmentation of the anterior capsule with an Achilles tendon allograft in patients with shoulder instability in the setting of EDS.

METHODS

Five shoulders (4 patients) with EDS and severe anteroinferior or multidirectional instability underwent open capsular shift combined with Achilles allograft augmentation of the anterior capsule. Patients were evaluated for pain, motion, recurrent instability, subjective shoulder value, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, complications, and reoperations. The mean follow-up time was 3.6 years (range, 2-5 years).

RESULTS

Shoulder stability was restored in 4 of 5 (80%) shoulders. At the final follow-up, the mean subjective shoulder value and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were 84 and 77.3, respectively. One shoulder developed recurrent posterior instability after an injury 1.6 years after the index procedure. The mean pain visual analog scale was 7 preoperatively and 2 at the most recent follow-up. Before surgery, all patients reported the use of narcotic pain medication, whereas at the most recent follow-up, only the one patient who had experienced recurrence reported moderate pain. Except for the shoulder that required revision surgery for posterior shoulder instability, there were no complications or other reoperations.

CONCLUSION

Open capsulorraphy with Achilles allograft augmentation improved stability and pain in 4 of 5 shoulders with instability in the setting of EDS. In this small case series of patients with EDS, Achilles tendon allograft augmentation was safe and effective as a primary or revision surgical procedure for anterior shoulder instability. A larger patient cohort with longer follow-up is needed to confirm these findings.

Risk Factors for Failure of Nonoperative Treatment of Posterior Shoulder Labral Tears on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

INTRODUCTION

There are no reports in the literature describing risk factors for failure of nonoperative treatment of patients with posterior labral tears on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors for failure of nonoperative treatment in patients with an isolated posterior glenoid labral tear identified on MRI only. Patients with posterior labral tears on MRI who fail to improve with nonoperative treatment likely share a constellation of clinical history, physical exam, and radiographic findings.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty-nine active duty military service members under the age of 40 with a posterior labral tear seen on MRI and who were clinically evaluated by a musculoskeletal trained physician were identified. We retrospectively evaluated their records ensuring a minimum of 2 years follow-up after MRI to identify surgical intervention for the posterior labral tear during this time period. Patients were stratified into two groups, those treated with any combination of nonoperative modalities and those treated with posterior labral repair surgery during the 2 years after the MRI. The electronic medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation and physical exam results. We measured multiple radiographic parameters, including glenoid version, size of the tear, and bone loss on MRI. Qualitative and quantitative data were compared between groups using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test, respectively. This study was conducted under institutional review board approval.

RESULTS

Of the 157 patients' shoulders in our study, 52% (n = 82) of patients with posterior labral tears underwent nonoperative treatment while 48% (n = 75) underwent surgery. The significant risk factors associated with surgery were a history of a specific injury, primary presenting complaint of instability, patient reported history of subluxation, inability to trust their shoulder with overhead activity, decreased strength with weight lifting, positive posterior load/shift exam, positive anterior apprehension, increased osseous glenoid retroversion, increased humeral head subluxation ratio, and anterior labral height (P < 0.05). Patients with a chief complaint of pain were much more likely to succeed with nonoperative treatment while those with instability underwent surgery more often. Ten (12.5%) of the surgical procedures included an anterior and posterior labral repair/stabilization procedure.

CONCLUSION

Patients with an MRI confirmed posterior labral tear, which present with subjective complaints and physical exam maneuvers consistent with instability, appear less likely to be treated nonoperatively. Increased glenoid retroversion and posterior humeral head subluxation may also predispose patients toward surgical treatment. Additionally, posterior labral tears may extend into the anterior labrum more frequently than is recognized on MRI.

Influential and Highest Cited Shoulder Instability Articles: A Bibliometric Analysis

Background

In orthopaedic surgery and other fields, the effect of influential journal articles has been evaluated by their citation counts and their correlation with methodological quality.

Purpose

To identify and characterize the 50 most cited articles on shoulder instability, examine trends in publication characteristics, and evaluate the correlation of citations with quality of evidence.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

The Web of Science and Scopus online databases were searched to identify the top 50 most cited articles on shoulder instability, based on the average number of citations from each database. Article characteristics were recorded, and level of evidence and methodological quality were assessed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score (mCMS), Jadad scale, and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). Spearman correlation was used to evaluate relationships between citations or citation density (citations/y) and level of evidence or methodological scoring. Top cited articles from recent years were also aggregated.

Results

The top 50 most cited papers had a mean ± SD number of citations of 381.5 ± 166.7, with a mean of 15.0 ± 8.8 citations/y. Overall, 15 articles (30%) were biomechanical/cadaveric studies, and 15 (30%) were case series. Only 3 (6%) were considered to have level 1 evidence. The mean ± SD mCMS was 54.4 ± 12.7, mean ± SD Jadad score was 3.1 ± 1.4, and mean ± SD MINORS score was 10.5 ± 3.3. There were no significant correlations between citation rank or density and methodological assessments. There were weak correlations between citation rank and publication year (r _s = 0.32; P = .022) and between rank and level of evidence (r _s = -0.38; P = .047). The correlation between citation density and publication year was moderate (r _s = 0.70; P < .0001). There was no difference in citation density of the top 10 articles from 2010 to 2020 compared with the top 10 from the overall list (23.8 ± 5.3 vs 28.8 ± 9.5; P = .16).

Conclusion

Influential articles in shoulder instability included a high proportion of biomechanical/cadaveric studies. The majority of top cited articles had lower evidence levels and poorer methodological quality without strong correlation with citations or citation density. There was a moderate correlation between citation density and year of publication.

Anterior Glenohumeral Instability in the Adolescent Athlete

Glenohumeral instability is multifactorial and has both static and dynamic elements. The initial management of first-time dislocations has become increasingly controversial, although recent evidence supports operative treatment for adolescents who participate in contact sports. Risk factors for recurrent glenohumeral instability include adolescent age, hyperlaxity, glenoid bone loss, off-track Hill-Sachs lesions, and fixation with <=3 anchors. High rates of return to sport can be expected when the surgical plan is tailored to individual pathology.

Comparison of muscle strength and neuromuscular control up to 1 year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction between patients with dominant leg and non-dominant leg injuries

BACKGROUND

There has not been an investigation to determine whether leg dominance affects the recovery of quadriceps and hamstring strength, muscle reaction time (acceleration time, AT), and postural stability after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in recreational-level athletic patients.

METHODS

A total of 100 patients with isolated ACL injuries (58 patients had dominant leg injuries; 42 patients had non-dominant leg injuries) participated. All patients received an anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction using an auto-hamstring tendon graft without preoperative rehabilitation. Leg dominance was defined as the kicking leg. The quadriceps and hamstring strength, AT, and postural stability (overall stability index (OSI)) of both legs were assessed at three different time points (preoperative, 6 months, 12 months), using an isokinetic dynamometer and postural stabilometry system.

RESULTS

All patients in both groups showed gradual improvement in quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength in the operated legs up to 1 year postoperatively. However, the mean value of quadriceps strength was lower in the operated non-dominant leg than the operated dominant leg 6 months postoperatively (P = 0.048). The AT and OSI of the operated legs in both groups recovered significantly 6 months postoperatively compared with their preoperative values; however, the AT and OSI values after 6 and 12 months were similar.

CONCLUSION

Quadriceps strength of the operated non-dominant leg was lower than that of the operated dominant leg 6 months postoperatively; however, the strength of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles was not different after 12 months between the operated dominant and non-dominant legs. Clinicians and physical therapists should consider these results during early rehabilitation and identify effective protocols to enhance quadriceps strength, especially in patients with non-dominant leg injuries.

Clinical Outcomes, Survivorship, and Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Capsular Repair With Suture Anchors for Adolescent Multidirectional Shoulder Instability: Results at 6-Year Follow-up

Background:

Multidirectional shoulder instability (MDI) refractory to rehabilitation can be treated with arthroscopic capsulolabral reconstruction with suture anchors. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have reported on outcomes or examined the risk factors that contribute to poor outcomes in adolescent athletes.

Purpose:

To identify risk factors for surgical failure by comparing anatomic, clinical, and demographic variables in adolescents who underwent intervention for MDI.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All patients 20 years or younger who underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery at a single institution between January 2009 and April 2017 were evaluated. MDI was defined by positive drive-through sign on arthroscopy plus positive sulcus sign and/or multidirectional laxity on anterior and posterior drawer tests while under anesthesia. A 2-year minimum follow-up was required, but those whose treatment failed earlier were also included. Demographic characteristics and intraoperative findings were recorded, as were scores on the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Pediatric and Adolescent Shoulder Survey (PASS), and short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH).

Results:

Overall, 42 adolescents (50 shoulders; 31 female, 19 male) were identified as having undergone surgical treatment for MDI with minimum 2-year follow-up or failure. The mean follow-up period was 6.3 years (range, 2.8-10.2 years). Surgical failure, defined as recurrence of subluxation and instability, was noted in 13 (26.0%) shoulders; all underwent reoperation at a mean of 1.9 years (range, 0.8-3.2 years). None of the anatomic, clinical, or demographic variables tested, or the presence of generalized ligamentous laxity, was associated with subjective outcomes or reoperation. Number of anchors used was not different between shoulders that failed and those that did not fail. Patients reported a mean SANE score of 83.3, PASS score of 85.0, and QuickDASH score of 6.8. Return to prior level of sport occurred in 56% of patients.

Conclusion:

Adolescent MDI refractory to nonsurgical management appeared to have long-term outcomes after surgical intervention that were comparable with outcomes of adolescent patients with unidirectional instability. In patients who experienced failure of capsulorrhaphy, results showed that failure most likely occurred within 3 years of the index surgical treatment.

Does the posterior glenoid osteotomy reduce the rate of recurrence in patients with posterior shoulder instability - A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Posterior shoulder instability (PSI) is becoming an increasingly recognised condition. A number of different treatment modalities exist to treat PSI including arthroscopic or open surgeries when non-operative treatment has failed. The primary aim of this systematic review was to analyse the rate of recurrent instability after posterior glenoid osteotomy (PGO) for recurrent PSI, while secondary aim was to identify complication rate and the amount of retroversion correction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A review of the online databases MEDLINE and Embase was conducted on 1 November 2019 according to PRISMA guidelines. The review was registered prospectively in the PROSPERO database (Registration No. CRD42020161984). Clinical studies reporting either the recurrence rate, complications or amount of retroversion correction after PGO for PSI were included. The studies were appraised using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) tool.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 9 studies eligible for inclusion. Of the 9 studies, 4 showed an improvement in retroversion with a mean change in retroversion of 10^o. All 9 studies reported on recurrence rate with an overall rate of 22%. Complications were discussed in only 7 of the studies with overall rate of 18.3%. The most common complication reported in the studies were degenerative changes of the glenohumeral joint (7.3%) and iatrogenic fractures (5.5%).

CONCLUSION

PGO is a viable option in patients with recurrent PSI that have increased retroversion and have failed non-operative or arthroscopic treatment. It does however carry a significant risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV; Systematic review.

Return to Play After Arthroscopic Stabilization for Posterior Shoulder Instability-A Systematic Review

Purpose

To ascertain the rate and timing of return to play (RTP) and the availability of specific criteria for safe RTP after arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to find studies on arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization. Studies were included if they reported RTP data or rehabilitation protocols and excluded if concomitant procedures influenced the rehabilitation protocol. Rate and timing of RTP, along with rehabilitation protocols, were assessed.

Results

This review found 25 studies, including 895 cases, meeting the study’s inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were male (82.7%), with an age range of 14 to 66 years and a follow-up range of 4 to 148.8 months. The overall RTP rate ranged from 62.7% to 100.0%, and 50.0% to 100.0% returned to the same level of play. Among collision athletes, the overall rate of RTP was 80.0% to 100.0%, with 69.2%-100.0% returning to the same level of play. In overhead athletes, the overall rate of RTP was 85.2% to 100.0%, with 55.6% to 100.0% returning to the same level of play. Four studies (128 patients) specifically addressed the timing of RTP, and the range to RTP was 4.3 to 8.6 months. Specific RTP criteria were reported in a majority of studies (60%), with the most reported item being restoration of strength (44%).

Conclusion

There is a high rate of return to sport after arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization, ranging from 4.3 to 8.6 months after surgery. Return to preinjury level is higher for collision athletes compared with overhead athletes. However, there is inadequate reporting of RTP criteria in the current literature, with no clear timeline for when it is safe to return to sport.

Level of Evidence

IV, systematic review of level II to IV studies

Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Treatment of Posterior Shoulder Instability

Background:

Arthroscopic treatment of posterior shoulder instability has become more popular and effective in recent years, but few data are available concerning the rate of return to sport.

Purpose:

To present our experiences with arthroscopic posterior labral reconstruction in athletes and review our results, with a particular focus on the rate of return to sport.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Included in the study were 40 arthroscopic stabilizations performed because of posterior shoulder instability in 37 athletes at a single institution. During follow-up, the athletes’ rate of return to sport was calculated. Shoulder function was evaluated based on a pre- versus postoperative comparison of the Rowe instability score and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score. Additionally, the return-to-sport rate was compared among different subgroups: traumatic versus atraumatic origin of injury, competitive versus recreational athletes, high-risk versus low-risk sport, and posterior-only versus anterior and posterior stabilization. Data were statistically analyzed using paired-samples t test and nonparametric Fisher exact test.

Results:

The average follow-up period was 54.4 months (range, 24-112 months). Three shoulders (7.5%) continued to have posterior subluxations postoperatively. There were 34 excellent, 3 good, and 3 fair results based on the Rowe score (average postoperative score, 92.9), and patients achieved an average postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of 92.7. The pre- to postoperative improvement was statistically significant in both scoring systems (P < .001). Of the 37 patients, 36 (98.2%) were able to return to sport activity: 27 of them (72.9%) to their original sport and 19 (51.4%) at their preinjury level. A significantly higher rate of return to the same sport occurred in athletes who had traumatic injury compared with a subgroup of athletes without a traumatic event (P < .02).

Conclusion:

More than half of the athletes were able to return to their preinjury level of sport after arthroscopic posterior labral reconstruction. In addition, low recurrence rates and good functional outcomes were seen in >90% of the patients, and 98% returned to sport activity. The athletes had a significantly higher rate of return to sport if their posterior shoulder instability had a clear traumatic origin.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Arabic version of the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI-Arabic)

BACKGROUND

One of the self-assessment tools used in shoulder instability to evaluate patient's quality of life is the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability (WOSI) Index. It is a valid and reliable disease-specific tool that has been translated into many languages. The aim of this study is to cross-culturally adapt the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability (WOSI) Index into Arabic and assess its psychometric properties in patients diagnosed with shoulder instability in order to help surgeons and physical therapists assess patients following an intervention.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-four patients with shoulder instability participated in the study. For validity and reliability, the WOSI, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH) and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) questionnaire were completed at baseline and the WOSI again within 1 week. For responsiveness the WOSI was completed 1 week postoperative and again 6 months following the completion of a rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

Cronbach's alpha (Internal Consistency) of the WOSI was 0.91 and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.96 indicating high reliability. The standard error of measurement was 90.2 with the scale 0-2100 and the minimal detectable change was 250 out of 2100 (11.9%). For construct validity, there was a moderate significant correlation between the Arabic WOSI, the DASH and the ASES with r=0.60 and 0.62 respectively. The WOSI was highly responsive with an effect size of 3.17 and a standardized response mean of 2.94.

CONCLUSION

The Arabic version of the WOSI is a valid, reliable and responsive tool that can be used to assess patients with shoulder instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I, Validity and reliability study.

Posterior shoulder instability: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

This review aims to provide information on outcomes of surgical procedures for soft tissue or bony glenoid and/or humeral abnormalities in case of posterior shoulder instability.

SOURCE OF DATA

A systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA guidelines was performed. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, Ovid and Google Scholar databases using various combinations of the keywords 'shoulder', 'posterior instability', 'dislocation', 'reversed bony bankart', 'reversed Hill Sachs', and 'capsulolabral' was performed.

AREAS OF AGREEMENT

A total of 847 shoulders in 810 patients were included. A redislocation event occurred in 33 (8.7%) of 411 shoulders with soft tissue abnormalities and in 12 (9.1%) of 132 shoulders with bony abnormalities of the glenoid, humeral head or both.

AREAS OF CONTROVERSY

The optimal treatment modalities for posterior shoulder dislocation remain to be defined.

GROWING POINTS

Operative stabilization for posterior shoulder instability should be lesion-specific and should correct all components of the posterior instability.

AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH

Future prospective studies should aim to establish the optimal treatment modalities for posterior shoulder instability.

Posterior Shoulder Instability Classification, Assessment, and Management: An International Delphi Study

OBJECTIVE

To reach consensus among international shoulder experts on the most appropriate assessment and management strategies for posterior shoulder instability (PSI).

DESIGN

Delphi.

METHODS

In phase 1 of the study, we reviewed the literature, generated the Delphi items, created the survey, and identified clinical experts. In phase 2 of the study, clinical shoulder experts (physical therapists, orthopaedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians, and researchers) participated in a 3-round e-Delphi survey. For consensus, we required a minimum of 70% agreement per round. Descriptive statistics were used to present the characteristics of the respondents, the response rate of the experts in each round, and the consensus for PSI classification, assessment, and management.

RESULTS

Round 3 was completed by 47 individuals from 5 different countries. The response rate ranged from 57/70 (81%) to 47/50 (94%) per round. Respondents agreed on 3 subgroups to define PSI: traumatic (100% agreement), microtraumatic (98% agreement), and atraumatic (98% agreement).

CONCLUSION

International shoulder experts agreed that the clinical presentation, management strategy, and outcome expectations differ for traumatic, microtraumatic, and atraumatic PSI. Their recommendations provide a framework for managing these subgroups, with additional consideration of sport and work participation and subsequent risks. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(7):373-380. Epub 29 Apr 2020. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.9225.

Global Perspectives on Management of Shoulder Instability: Decision Making and Treatment

The glenohumeral joint is prone to instability. Patients with instability should have a physical examination. Imaging studies can provide additional information. Classification schemes that into account soft tissue pathology, neuromuscular control, bone loss, and activity level. An arthroscopic Bankart repair is the mainstay for unidirectional instability. Bone block procedures are indicated for patients with bone loss or a failed attempt at stabilization surgery. The arthroscopic Latarjet is a promising option for these patients. For patients with multidirectional instability, prolonged rehabilitation is indicated, followed by capsular plication or inferior capsular shift if instability is unresponsive to physical therapy.

Structured Rehabilitation Program for Multidirectional Shoulder Instability in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) present many musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this case report was to describe the effectiveness of a scapular motor control program for a patient with multidirectional severe shoulder instability due to EDS, with 6-month follow-up. The patient was a 14-year-old female with EDS hypermobile type who suffered recurrent shoulder dislocation. Her chief complaints were bilateral shoulder discomfort and instability during writing motion. In the early part of intervention, she was prescribed exercise therapy for multidirectional instability (MDI) with orthosis. In the latter part of intervention, she was instructed in the scapular motor control program. Active and passive range of motion (ROM), sulcus sign, and Rowe score for shoulder instability were measured at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after interventions. The shoulder ROM and instability score were improved after 6-month intervention. The findings from this report indicate that the scapular motor control program for shoulder instability would be effective even for patients with EDS hypermobile type. A patient who could not increase passive ROM due to dislocation is also able to achieve fair function of the shoulder joint instead of increasing active ROM. These positive outcomes indicate the possibility of benefit from the scapular motor control program for an MDI patient with EDS as a conservative treatment.

The role of structured physiotherapy in treating patients with atraumatic shoulder instability: Medium term results from a case series

BACKGROUND

Consensus favours conservative treatment for atraumatic shoulder instability, but literature is scarce on the topic. We therefore prospectively assessed the results of structured physiotherapy for these patients.

METHODS

Patient reported outcomes were recorded prior to physiotherapy and on discharge. Notes review identified patients re-referred for the same condition.

RESULTS

N = 85. Review range was 12-72 months post-treatment. Median Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS) improved from 21 (range: 2-47) to 39 (11-47). Median Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) improved from 1117 (range: 306-2028) to 485 (0-1569). Patients with posterior instability demonstrated better results compared with other groups (OSIS change, p = 0.025; WOSI change, p = 0.060). Quicker referral to physiotherapy gave improved outcomes (OSIS change, p = 0.004, r_s  = -0.4; WOSI change, p = 0.047, r_s  = 0.24). Twenty-one patients (24.7%) were re-referred, seven of them for repeat physiotherapy and 14 of them for surgery. Previous surgery significantly affected the possibility of a further referral (p < 0.001), and initial diagnosis was significantly correlated with further surgery (p = 0.032).

DISCUSSION

Early referral to physiotherapy may produce better results. Patients with posterior instability responded better to physiotherapy. Previous surgery increased the risk of re-referral. Re-referred patients with posterior instability tended to be managed with further physiotherapy.

Evaluation and Management of Scapular Dyskinesis in Overhead Athletes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review will outline scapular function in throwing, discuss scapular dyskinesis as an impairment of function that can be associated with throwing injuries and altered performance, and present an algorithm that encompasses guidelines for evaluation and can serve as a basis for treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Optimal scapular function is integral to optimal shoulder function. Multiple roles of the scapula in arm function and throwing have been identified while scapular dysfunction continues to be associated with various shoulder pathologies. Although scapular motion alterations may be common in overhead athletes, various reports have shown that identification and management of the alterations can result in improved rehabilitation and performance outcomes. Baseball throwing occurs as the result of integrated, multisegmented, sequential joint motion, and muscle activation within the kinetic chain. The scapula is a key component link within the chain through its function to maximize the scapulohumeral rhythm and efficient throwing mechanics. Evaluation and management beginning with the scapula can produce improved outcomes related to shoulder pathology in overhead athletes.

Impact of combination of therapeutic exercise and psychological intervention for a patient with first-time traumatic shoulder dislocation

[Purpose] A young female with first-time traumatic shoulder dislocation showed a good outcome at the 1 year follow-up in returning to work and sports after undergoing a combination of exercise therapy and psychological intervention. [Participant and Methods] A 24-year-old female who worked as an occupational therapist and played badminton for recreation had dislocated her shoulder in a fall. We evaluated her compliance with home-exercise, range of motion, return to work, fear of movement, sports activity level, and instability of shoulder joint using the modified Rowe score at each timepoint necessary. During early sessions of the physical therapy, the range of motion and instability score for the shoulder joint were poor. We treated her using a phase-based approach, and subsequently, added the Watson program to restore normal kinematics. Because of a psychological problem during middle sessions of the physical therapy, we provided psychological education and support. [Results] At the final session of the therapy, her compliance with home-exercise was good. She had achieved almost a full range of motion. The fear of movement decreased, and she could play sports again. The modified Rowe score improved from 5 to 85. [Conclusion] As a conservative treatment for patients with first-time traumatic shoulder instability, a combination of therapeutic exercise and psychological intervention may be useful.

Arthroscopically Assisted Reduction in a Chronic Locked Posterior Shoulder Dislocation

Neglected posterior shoulder dislocation is a difficult condition in terms of decision making and surgical technique. Not only the bony deformity but also the soft tissue and patient's underlying disease are of concern. Whether the poor results are associated with a time delay or the treatment method is not clear yet. To date, there is neither a consensus nor treatment guidelines. We describe an arthroscopically assisted reduction and open McLaughlin procedure. The advantage of this procedure is preservation of the soft tissue of the anterior part of the shoulder during the surgical reduction technique for chronic neglected posterior shoulder dislocation cases.

Effects of Rehabilitation in Bankart Lesion in Non-athletes: A Report of Three Cases

A Bankart lesion is a common traumatic sports injury of the glenohumeral joint. When the shoulder is dislocated, the connective tissue surrounding the joint may tear or rupture. This study aimed to describe the initial dislocation, treatment, medical treatment, rehabilitation outcomes at 3 and 8 months, and return to daily life for three patients. Patient 1 was a 28-year-old male office worker who enjoyed fitness and weight training. His injury was sustained by a fall from his bicycle and subsequent performance of pull-up exercises. Surgery was recommended for repair of the anterior and inferior labrum tear. Reassessment of the surgery was performed after 2 months of rehabilitation. The patient was asked to exercise once a week at a rehabilitation center and to perform home-based exercises. In the first 2 months, the main exercise consisted of range of motion (ROM) exercises and stretching. Thereafter, muscle strengthening, using tubing, equipment and body weight exercises, and proprioceptive exercises were performed to gradually improve muscle strength and for return to daily activities. ROM progressively increased, with recovery of normal range at 2 months post-surgery. However, pain decreased only slightly, with a visual analog score of 6 out of 10 at 2 months post-surgery. At 8 months, the pain was bearable, without causing discomfort. Muscle strength remained almost unchanged initially but gradually recovered, although with a residual deficit of 20–30% in flexion, adduction and internal rotation. Considering the prolonged rehabilitation after surgery, future studies are warranted to analyze the long-term effects of non-surgical therapies by accumulating more cases and developing effective exercise rehabilitation programs.

A functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging study of patients with Polar Type II/III complex shoulder instability

The pathophysiology of Stanmore Classification Polar type II/III shoulder instability is not well understood. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging was used to measure brain activity in response to forward flexion and abduction in 16 patients with Polar Type II/III shoulder instability and 16 age-matched controls. When a cluster level correction was applied patients showed significantly greater brain activity than controls in primary motor cortex (BA4), supramarginal gyrus (BA40), inferior frontal gyrus (BA44), precentral gyrus (BA6) and middle frontal gyrus (BA6): the latter region is considered premotor cortex. Using voxel level correction within these five regions a unique activation was found in the primary motor cortex (BA4) at MNI coordinates -38 -26 56. Activation was greater in controls compared to patients in the parahippocampal gyrus (BA27) and perirhinal cortex (BA36). These findings show, for the first time, neural differences in patients with complex shoulder instability, and suggest that patients are in some sense working harder or differently to maintain shoulder stability, with brain activity similar to early stage motor sequence learning. It will help to understand the condition, design better therapies and improve treatment of this group; avoiding the common clinical misconception that their recurrent shoulder dislocations are a form of attention-seeking.