VG – Post shoulder surgery

VG underwent a Subacromial Decompression in January 2013 and was referred to AquaPhysio by her land physiotherapist soon after her operation.

On assessment she had 120 degress of active assisted shoulder flexion, abduction of 100 degrees and could only reach the side of her hip when trying to put her hand behind her back. All movements came with a constant ache of 3-4/10.

A buoyancy assisted exercise program including stretching, shoulder stabilisation and strengthening was started and progressed at regular intervals. VE attended 4 sessions with the therapist over a one month period and then continued on a self-help basis for another month.

Reviewing VG’s shoulder at this stage revealed full range of movement but slight weakness and lack of control. Her program was changed accordingly and she returned to full function 6 weeks later.