This research study evaluates clinical outcomes and return-to-sport rates for patients undergoing different types of shoulder replacement surgery.
Researchers compared anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), which utilized a standard recovery timeline, against reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), which followed an accelerated fast-track rehabilitation protocol.
The findings reveal that TSA patients achieved a perfect success rate in resuming athletic activities, significantly outperforming the RSA group.
Despite the intensive, proactive physical therapy provided to RSA recipients, they faced greater biomechanical challenges and lower rates of return to sport.
Ultimately, the study suggests that while both procedures effectively reduce pain, the preservation of natural joint mechanics in TSA offers a distinct advantage for active individuals.
Therefore, RSA recovery may require more personalized programs to bridge the functional gap seen in complex cases.
(Franceschi F, Saccone L, Giovannetti de Sanctis E, Baldari A, De Angelis d’Ossat GM, La Verde L, et al. Return to sport after shoulder arthroplasty: The role of fast-track rehabilitation in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Shoulder Elbow [Internet]. 2025;17585732251345323. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/17585732251345323)