Ronnie Barnes PFATS Educational Series: Return to Sport After Glenohumeral Instability: A Functional Rehabilitation Approach
Abstract:
The purpose of this presentation is to provide athletic trainers and other sports medicine professionals with evidence-based strategies for safely and effectively guiding athletes back to play after glenohumeral instability with a focus on injury mechanisms, rehabilitation progressions, functional testing and return-to-sport decision making criteria.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the common mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical presentations of glenohumeral instability in athletes.
- Identify key phases of rehabilitation and implement interventions to restore strength, stability, and function.
- Explain strategies for reducing re-injury risk and optimizing long-term shoulder health in athletes.
Level:
Advanced
Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy
Domain 2: Assessment Evaluation and Diagnosis
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention
Orthopedic Domain(s):
Domain 3: Professional Practice
Keywords:
Functional Tests; Professional Sports; Shoulder Dislocations
CEUs:
1.0 Category A
A Statement of Credit reflecting your CEUs will be issued immediately upon the successful completion of all course components.
Course Expiration:
All sessions of the NATA 77th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by December 31, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.
Steven Feldman, DPT, ATC, CSCS
Steven Feldman, DPT, ATC, CSCS is a Coordinator of Rehabilitation for the Philadelphia Eagles. He is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Doctor of Physical Therapy who brings 13 seasons of experience in sports medicine.
Throughout his tenure, he has contributed to the team’s success, including two Super Bowl championships. Steve holds numerous certifications in athletic training, physical therapy, and strength and conditioning, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development.
Michael Thomas, DPT, PT, ATC, CSCS
Mike is entering his fourth season as an Assistant Athletic Trainer/Physical Therapist for the Baltimore Ravens. He received his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at the University of Pittsburgh in 2015. During his undergraduate experience as an athletic training student, Mike completed a season-long internship with the Pittsburgh Steelers and later received his Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from University of Pittsburgh in 2018. While obtaining his DPT, Mike completed a year-long full-time clinical internship at the Rooney Sports Medicine Complex where he had the opportunity to work with athletes of varying backgrounds. He also worked as a Seasonal Assistant Athletic Trainer for the Detroit Lion’s in the 2018 NFL season. He also briefly worked in the Alliance of American Football League. He holds certifications as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Emergency Medical Technician, vestibular and concussion rehabilitation, as well as being a dry needling practitioner.

