Resistance Training Volume During Rehabilitation Predicts Functional Outcomes In Workers' Compensation Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

This study sought to determine if total resistance training volume (RTvol) could predict functional outcome (Physical Demand Level; PDL) following a sports performance based rehabilitation program in workers' compensation rotator cuff repair patients (n=42). RTvol = Weight * Sets * Repetitions; daily average for the first and last week. 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 RTvol Fisher's Exact Test was used post-hoc. Paired t-test assessed first/last week change. Alpha=0.05. Data are mean±SEM. PDLs were L=1, LM=6, MH=13, H=10, VH=12. For analysis the L patient was eliminated. First week RTvol were: LM 5751±1329 lbs; MH 10502±1152 lbs; H 16910±1965 lbs; VH 18879±2555 lbs. First week RTvol was higher in H and VH groups compared to LM and MH groups. RTvol increased during the program in all groups. Last week RTvol were: LM 7299±806 lbs; MH 20386±1697 lbs; H 27430±2589 lbs; VH 33399±2354 lbs. Last week RTvol increased significantly between each successive PDL group. Linear regression yielded a correlation coefficient of R2=0.61 for the relationship between RTvol and PDL. These results suggest that RTvol can predict PDL following a rehabilitation program.