The deltoid muscle provides strength for elevation of the arm in conjunction with the rotator cuff muscles. When the axillary nerve is injured, the triceps branch of the radial nerve serves as a common donor for a nerve transfer, which has the potential to restore shoulder function. Postoperative therapy includes three phases based on the donor activation focused rehabilitation approach. Therapy progresses based on results of monthly manual muscle testing of the recipient deltoid muscle. Frequent donor triceps activation with active elbow extension is encouraged throughout the first two phases. Exercise and functional activities that combine donor elbow extension with assisted and active deltoid function are included in the motor reeducation. Outcomes for this nerve transfer vary from fair to excellent. Individuals with a brachial plexus injury have demonstrated poorer outcomes compared to those with isolated axillary nerve injuries.