Comparing Apprehension-Based Training and Standard Physical Therapy for Military Personnel Aged 18-39 After Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

What this Trial Is About

This trial investigates whether a new rehabilitation approach called apprehension-based training leads to better recovery after shoulder dislocation compared to standard physical therapy among military personnel aged 18 to 39 years. The study aims to see if this training helps participants regain shoulder function, improves their shoulder-related quality of life, and reduces the risk of shoulder dislocations recurring. Participants have documented anterior shoulder dislocation confirmed by a medical professional and a positive anterior apprehension test. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The apprehension-based training involves a 3-phase exercise program progressing from static isometric exercises to dynamic exercises with added cognitive tasks, guided by a physical therapist over up to 8 one-on-one sessions, with daily home exercises. The standard physical therapy group receives individualized treatment by a licensed therapist, which may include various exercises, manual therapy, dry needling, or electrophysiological techniques, also up to 8 sessions with a home exercise program. Throughout the study, participants undergo assessments including shoulder function tests, strength measurements, and quality of life questionnaires at baseline, after 10 weeks of intervention, and up to one year later. Researchers monitor return to preinjury function, recurrence of dislocations, and shoulder instability signs. Additional measures such as muscle strength, pain-related fear, and heart rate variability are recorded. The study involves regular visits and exercises over a 10-week intervention period with follow-up evaluations extending to one year after treatment ends.

Apprehension-based Training Compared With Standard Physical Therapy for Military Personnel Following Anterior Shoulder Dislocation - a Randomized Clinical Trial