Why should resisted forearm supination be avoided early after a superior labrum repair?

• A. Because supination reduces shoulder stability
• B. Because the long head of the biceps attaches to the superior labrum and resisted supination could stress the repair
• C. Because pronation is painful
• D. Because supination is weaker in rehab

Answer: (B)

After a superior labrum repair, protecting the biceps-labral connection is essential in the early healing phase. The long head of the biceps tendon attaches to the superior labrum, so when you perform resisted forearm supination, the biceps contracts to turn the forearm and places tensile stress on that attachment. This creates pulling forces on the repair site, increasing the risk of strain or failure while the tissue is still healing. Hence, avoiding resisted supination helps protect the repair and supports proper healing.