Prognostic value of baseline muscle strength for functional recovery after rotator cuff repair: an observational study

Review written by Dr Kathryn Fahy info

Key Points

  1. High asymmetry (>10%) between sides predicts worse outcomes, while contralateral strength serves as a baseline indicator of recovery potential and guides goal-setting.
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Rotator cuff tears are a leading cause of shoulder pain and functional disability (1). While arthroscopic rotator cuff repair aims to restore tendon integrity, many patients continue to experience pain and limited function postoperatively (2). Early identification of strength related factors associated with pain outcomes may help to predict recovery, and help clinicians optimize rehabilitation strategies. Handgrip strength is a quick, simple, and inexpensive measure of overall upper limb strength, specifically rotator cuff function (3).

This study aimed to investigate whether baseline muscle strength, particularly handgrip strength and asymmetry, measured six weeks postoperatively at the start of rehabilitation, could predict functional recovery and pain at three and six months after surgery.

While arthroscopic rotator cuff repair aims to restore tendon integrity, many patients continue to experience pain and limited function postoperatively.
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Contralateral handgrip strength offers a useful baseline of pre-injury capacity, enabling physiotherapists to set individualized rehab goals and timelines.

METHODS

This prospective observational cohort study recruited 76 adults (mean age 60.3 years, 61% female) undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between 2023–2024. Baseline assessments were completed six weeks after surgery, when rehabilitation began.

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