AC Joint Stabilisation Rehabilitation

Indications:

Performed for AC Joint Dislocations

Procedures:

Protocol:

Pre-operative rehabilitation is advisable (Pre-hab) 

 Post Op

Day 1 - 3 weeks  

Level 1 Exercises
  • Sling for 3 weeks (athletes can wean off sooner under guidance of club therapist)
  • Teach axillary hygiene
  • Teach postural awareness and scapular setting
  • Core stability exercises as appropriate)
  • Proprioceptive exercises (minimal weightbearing below 90 degrees)
  • Active assisted flexion as comfortable
  • Active assisted external rotation as comfortable
  • Do not force or stretch

3 - 6 weeks

Level 2-3 exercises
  • Wean off sling
  • Progress active assisted to active ROM as comfortable
  • Do not force or stretch

6 - 12 Weeks

Progress Level 3+ exercises
  • Regain scapula & glenohumeral stability working for shoulder joint control rather than range
  • Gradually increase ROM
  • Strengthen
  • Increase proprioception through open & closed chain exercise
  • Progress core stability exercises
  • Incorporate sports-specific rehabilitation
  • Plyometrics and pertubation training

 

 Milestones
Week 6  Active elevation to pre op level
Week 12

Minimum 80% range of external rotation compared to asymptomatic side

Normal movement patterns throughout range
Failure to achieve milestones    Referral to surgeon

 

See Post-Operative Exercises

 Return to functional activities
Return to work

 Sedentary job: as tolerated

Manual job: 3 months
Driving 6-8 weeks
Swimming

Breaststroke: 6 weeks

Freestyle: 12 weeks

Golf

 3 Months
Lifting Light lifting can begin at 3 weeks. Avoid lifting heavy items for 3 months.
Contact Sport E.g. Horse riding, football, martial arts, racket sports and rock climbing: 3 months