Progressive early passive and active exercise therapy after surgical rotator cuff repair – A randomized controlled trial (the CUT-N-MOVE trial)

Background: Traumatic rotator cuff tear is a common cause of shoulder disability, pain, and loss of shoulder mobility and strength. The condition is typically managed surgically followed by physiotherapeutic rehabilitation. However, the optimal timing and intensity of the rehabilitation program remains unclear. Early controlled and gradually increased tendon loading has been suggested to augmet tendon healing and recovery. The aim of this trial is therefore to examine the effect of an early progressive rehabilitation program on pain, physical function and quality of life compared to usual care in patients with surgically repaired traumatic rotator cuff tear.

Methods: A randomized, controlled, outcome assessor blinded, multicentre, superiority trial with a two-group parallel design is performed. A total of 100 patients with surgically repaired traumatic rotator cuff tears are randomized to either a 12-week early progressive rehabilitation program or a limited early passive movement program (usual care). The primary outcome is the change from pre-surgery to 12 weeks post-surgery in the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index questionnaire (patient reported symptoms and function related to rotator cuff pathology). Secondary outcomes include DASH (general upper extremity function), shoulder range of motion, muscle strength and tendon healing characteristics from ultrasound measurements at 12 months follow-up.

Discussion: We hypothesize that patients who receive the progressive rehabilitation strategy will benefit more with respect to pain, functional recovery and quality of life than those receiving usual care. If confirmed our study can be used to enhance recovery of patients with traumatic rotator cuff tear.