The timing of rotator cuff repair referrals on work rehabilitation program outcomes

Background Rotator cuff repairs are common among working-age adults and often require a lengthy rehabilitation process. Return to work (RTW) outcomes are often influenced by injury severity, job demands, and rehabilitation timing. Previous research suggests participation in work rehabilitation programs improves RTW outcomes; however, optimal timing for initiating these programs remains unclear. Objective To determine whether early versus typical referral to a work rehabilitation program following rotator cuff repair affects work rehabilitation program outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis of 147 patients who underwent rotator cuff repair from 2014–2023 was conducted. Patients were categorized into early (n = 84) or typical (n = 63) referral groups based on surgical protocol-defined timelines by tear type. Statistical comparisons used non-parametric and categorical tests with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results Early referrals resulted in significantly fewer acute therapy visits (Mdn = 22.0 vs. 32.0; p < 0.001) and decreased time from surgery to work rehabilitation admission (Mdn = 18.0 vs. 24.0 weeks; p < 0.001) and discharge (Mdn = 22.0 vs. 29.0 weeks; p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in RTW status ( p = .327), percentage of job demands met, or number of work rehabilitation visits. Conclusions Early referral to a work rehabilitation program following rotator cuff repair leads to reduced therapy visits without compromising RTW outcomes. Findings from this study support an earlier transition to work rehabilitation programs from traditional outpatient therapy as a cost-effective and time-saving strategy to support the injured workers’ resumption of work tasks.