Does immobilization position after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair impact work quality or comfort?
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to quantify subjective discomfort and decrease in working performance in patients submitted to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.


METHODS
We enrolled 101 asymptomatic administrative employees (mean age 55). Subjects were asked to write a text using Microsoft Word and to make a table using Microsoft Excel, with and without shoulder braces which kept the right shoulder in neutral (brace A) and internal rotation (brace B). Total time needed to complete the tests and number of mistakes committed were annotated. Furthermore, a questionnaire to assess the subjective and interpersonal discomfort caused by the braces was compiled. Data were submitted to statistical analysis.


RESULTS
When any brace is worn, both times and mistakes are higher than those registered without brace (p < 0.02). Both times and mistakes are higher for brace B in comparison with brace A (p < 0.02). Subjects wearing brace B had a severe/very severe discomfort degree three times higher than that registered in subjects wearing brace A. Finally, 91 % of subjects preferred brace A to brace B.


DISCUSSION
If the choice of the brace is not supported by biological or clinical advantages, we recommend to use the brace that keeps the arm at the side, since it ensures better working performance and lower discomfort. It also received the greatest satisfaction of the respondents.


LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
IV.
['Gumina|S|S|', 'Candela|V|V|', 'Passaretti|D|D|', 'Mariani|L|L|', 'Orsina|L|L|']
D000368:Aged D001182:Arthroscopy D001915:Braces D006801:Humans D007103:Immobilization D008875:Middle Aged D017060:Patient Satisfaction D016059:Range of Motion, Articular D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires D016896:Treatment Outcome
Rotator cuff repair Shoulder brace Post-operative shoulder immobilization Post-operative subjective discomfort Post-operative work performance Shoulder sling