Bakeground:Thyroidectomy is one of the standard surgical procedures worldwide. Although The
mortality and morbidity of thyroidectomy are low, some long-term complications continue to represent
significant health and social problem. Early physical exercises for these patients are effective in enhancing the
neck and shoulder motor function and improving quality of life. Aim: Assess the efficacy of early exercise
programs (self rang of motion and active rang of motion exercises) on radical thyroidectomy patients' motor and
functional abilities. Design: the researchers used a a comparative design. setting:The researcher
conducted the study at the Head and Neck Surgery Unit
in Alexandria Main University Hospital, Egypt.
Sample:50 radical thyroidectomy patients were included,
and each patient was randomly selected to be
allocated to one of the two groups, 25 patients
each. Tools: Four tools were used: Socio-demographic and clinical data structured interview schedule,
"The disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand" outcome questionnaire, shoulder recovery outcome and neck
recovery outcome. Methods: The researchers used four tools for data collection. The exercise programs were
applied one week before the operation and continued for two months postoperative. The researchers developed
verbal and written instruction and gave it preoperatively, and patients were re-assessed by utilizing tools II, III,
and IV after applying the program for each group. Results: 88% of self exercises patients were holding against
maximal resistance of muscles strength after two months postoperatively compared to 48% of active exercises
patients were holding against gravity elimination. Arm circumference measurements were not statistically
significant differences between the two groups, neither preoperatively nor postoperatively. In contrast, range of
motion of shoulders, shoulder pain, Disailities of Arm,Shoulder and Hand score, ability to lift objects, ability to
do work, and overall activity were significantly improved among self-exercise patients than active exercise
patients. Conclusion: Significant improvement of the self exercises group concerning functional and motor
activity of the shoulder, arm, and neck. Modification of the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand score of
self exercises patients. Statistically significant differences between self and active exercise group regarding
Neck Dissection Impairment Index after two months postoperative. Recommendations:
Patients and their families must be involved in early rehabilitation to prevent complications and improve their
daily living activity.