Overhead Press Lift Weight During Rehabilitation Predicts Functional Outcomes In Workers' Compensation Rotator Cuff Repair Patients

Abstract

This study sought to determine if overhead press weight (OHPwt) could predict functional outcome (Physical Demand Level; PDL) following a sports performance based rehabilitation program in workers' compensation rotator cuff repair patients (n=40). OHPwt was measured weekly during rehabilitation and determined by the best set of 8–12 repetitions. PDL was measured at program completion (KEY Method) and classified by occasional occupational lifting requirements: LIGHT (L; 20lbs), LIGHT-MEDIUM (LM; 35lbs), MEDIUM (M; 50 lbs), MEDIUM-HEAVY (MH; 75lbs), HEAVY (H; 100lbs), VERY HEAVY (VH; >100lbs). ANOVA analyzed relationships between PDL and OHPwt. Fisher's Exact Test was used post-hoc. Paired t-test assessed first/best week change. Alpha=0.05. Data are mean±SEM. PDLs were L=1, LM=5, MH=13, H=9, VH=12. For analysis the L patient was eliminated. First week OHPwt were: LM 9±3 lbs; MH 22±2 lbs; H 24±3 lbs; VH 32±5 lbs. First week OHPwt did not differ between groups. MH, H, and VH groups significantly increased OHPwt. Best OHPwt were: LM 18±4 lbs; MH 33±4 lbs; H 44±4 lbs; VH 57±6 lbs. Post-hoc analysis indicated best OHPwt was significantly higher in the VH group. Linear regression yielded a correlation coefficient of R2=0.44 for the relationship between OHPwt and PDL. These results suggest OHPwt can predict PDL following a rehabilitation program.