Superior Labral (SLAP) RepairRehab Protocol

Phase 1 (0-4 weeks)

  • Range of Motion
    • Active/assisted limits 90º forward elevation, 45º external rotation, full internal rotation 
  • Immobilizer
    • full time first 2 weeks may remove to shower and for ROM exercises
    • 2-4 weeks continue during day and in public 
  • Exercises
    • IR/ER with arm at side
    • at 2 weeks may start deltoid/rotator cuff isometrics  and scapular stabilizer closed chain 

Phase 2 (4-8 weeks)

  • Range of Motion
    • progressive increase active FE, ER/IR as tolerated
  • Immobilizer
    • may wean and discontinue immobilizer
  • Exercises
    • advance isometrics and may start theraband
    • scapular stabilizers 
    • prone extensors

Phase 3 (8-12 weeks)

  • Range of Motion
    • Progress to full active ROM
  • Exercises
    • start active resistance theraband
    • may start upper body cycling
    • may return to running or standard planks/push-ups

Phase 4 (12-20 weeks)

  • Exercises
    • May begin progressive return to prior activity level
    • throwers/overhead activities may start at 16 weeks as tolerated 
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