Purpose: To assess the effects of joint mobilization on range of motion and pain in the post-operative rotator cuff repair. Subjects: 10 adults between the ages of 46-67 years old residing in Miami, Florida. Method: A prospective randomized single-blinded study that consisted of a post-operative evaluation and assessments of range of motion and pain. Results: Significant differences were only found with increase of range of motion in internal rotation in the experimental group (p=.031). There was no statistical significance in increases of range of motion in the experimental group in the externally rotated, flexed and abducted positions. Additionally, there was no statistical significance in pain levels between the control and experimental group. Conclusion: Since there is such diversity in rotator cuff protocols it is important for physical therapists to investigate which protocols are most effective and efficient to the patients. Further research needs to be done on the effectiveness of joint mobilizations in order to improve our physical therapy protocols.
| Date of Award | Jan 1 1998 |
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| Original language | English |
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