In TSA phase 2, external rotation is progressed per tolerance to what degrees?

In TSA phase 2, external rotation is progressed per tolerance to what degrees?

• A. 0-30 degrees
• B. 0-45 degrees
• C. 30-60 degrees
• D. 15-45 degrees

Answer: (A)

After total shoulder arthroplasty, Phase 2 aims to restore motion while protecting healing tissues, especially if the subscapularis repair was performed. External rotation early on places load on the front of the capsule and repair, so advancing this motion too aggressively can jeopardize healing and stability. The goal is to progress external rotation only as tolerated by the patient—starting with a small, pain-free range and increasing gradually if there is no increase in pain, swelling, or instability and the movement can be performed with good control. This conservative, tolerance-based approach minimizes risk while still promoting ROM gains. Larger, end-range external rotation early would be more likely to stress the repaired structures and is not advised in this phase.

After total shoulder arthroplasty, Phase 2 aims to restore motion while protecting healing tissues, especially if the subscapularis repair was performed. External rotation early on places load on the front of the capsule and repair, so advancing this motion too aggressively can jeopardize healing and stability. The goal is to progress external rotation only as tolerated by the patient—starting with a small, pain-free range and increasing gradually if there is no increase in pain, swelling, or instability and the movement can be performed with good control. This conservative, tolerance-based approach minimizes risk while still promoting ROM gains. Larger, end-range external rotation early would be more likely to stress the repaired structures and is not advised in this phase.