Actualités sur la rééducation dans les prothèses d’épaule

Total shoulder arthroplasty has shown a major progress in the last 50 years. Nowadays the losely-linked prosthesis are the most frequently fitted ; these prosthesis have a good range of motion but they need a good quality rotator cuff. Rehabilitation is fundamental to achieve a good functional result. It begins during the immobilization phase to obtain a satisfactory passive range of motion, especially through scapulo-humeral mobilization. The following phase, at progressive splint removal, is centred on active mobilization, made easier in the hot bath. Finally, in the last phase, active exercises provide muscle tonicity and concrete functional gestures integrated by the occupational therapist. Rehabilitation comprehends more analytical exercises in the first phase, global and analytical work in the second phase ; at the last phase, basically functional gestures, developing sometimes compensations.