Physical therapist management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis: A case series

Background: Glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) is a common cause of impaired lifestyle, quality of life, and emotional well-being. Despite its frequency, there is insufficient evidence to recommend specific management strategies in physical therapist practice. The purpose of the present case series was to describe physical therapist management and outcomes of patients with GHOA. Case description: A retrospective chart review from August 2020 to February 2023 identified patients of an outpatient physical therapy clinic with GHOA. Primary outcomes included whether patients eventually had surgery and changes in their Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-57. Secondary outcomes included changes in pain, strength, and mobility testing. Results: Eleven patients met inclusion criteria. One patient eventually had surgery. On the PROMIS-57, 5 patients had clinically important improvements in pain interference, and 4 had clinically important improvements in pain intensity. All patients were treated with manual therapy and range of motion and progressive resistance exercises. Conclusion: The present case series provides support for a tailored approach to nonoperative treatment of GHOA that includes manual therapy and exercise, avoids surgery, and improves pain and function. However, prospective studies with larger sample sizes are necessary in this population.