Shoulder Replacement Rehab at Forward Physical Therapy
Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) — both anatomic (aTSA) and reverse (rTSA) — requires specialized rehabilitation that respects the surgical approach while progressively restoring function. Our Return+ TSA protocol provides structured, approach-specific testing across 7 phases.
Return+ TSA Protocol
- Approach-specific protocols — aTSA and rTSA have different ROM expectations, strength timelines, and precautions. We adjust everything based on your surgical approach.
- ROM type progression — PROM (passive) in early phases, transitioning to AROM (active) as healing allows
- 4-plane ROM tracking — flexion, abduction, external rotation, internal rotation with symmetry comparison
- Strength testing — isometric force testing in early phases, HHD with LSI in later phases. Approach-adjusted thresholds (aTSA ~80% LSI, rTSA ~70% LSI).
- ASES and QuickDASH — validated shoulder-specific outcome measures
aTSA vs rTSA Differences
Anatomic TSA preserves the normal shoulder mechanics and generally achieves higher strength recovery. Reverse TSA changes the biomechanics to compensate for rotator cuff deficiency — external rotation recovery is slower and strength expectations are adjusted accordingly. We track both with specific benchmarks.
No Referral Needed
Wisconsin’s Direct Access law means you can see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral.
The Forward PT Standard
Every session at Forward Physical Therapy is 1-on-1 with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. No aides, no double-booking, no exceptions. We combine evidence-based rehabilitation with our proprietary Return+ testing platform to deliver measurable outcomes — not just subjective notes.
Our Locations
Fitchburg: 6250 Nesbitt Rd, Suite 500, Fitchburg, WI 53719
Edgerton: 102 W Fulton St, Edgerton, WI 53534
Phone: (608) 561-7733