How much variation from the protocol is acceptable?

As long as the exercises fall into the same category, small changes are acceptable. It is also understood that some patients may not be able to progress as others. This is why the protocols have
a function-based progression. Also, if you have an operative patient who had a surgical procedure other than (or in addition to) a rotator cuff repair, modifications to the post-op PT protocol may be necessary. See “What if my post-operative patient has had a surgical procedure other than a rotator cuff repair….?” for more information.