Acromio-Clavicular Joint (ACJ) Reconstruction

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Aims:                   

Reduce pain, shoulder dysfunction or neurological symptoms due to an ACJ dislocation

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Sling:                    

As comfortable but usually majority of time for 3 weeks.

Remove for exercises and as comfortable

Aim to wean from sling completely by 3 weeks.

Teach axilla hygiene and washing out of sling

 

Restrictions:         

Heavy ADLs and straight arm lifting until 6 weeks

Cross body activities and adduction 6-8 weeks as pain allows

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 From day 1:          

Hand and elbow exercises- active and passive

Pendulums/circling

Active external rotation

Shoulder shrugs and scapula setting

Check ‘post op’ note

 

1-3 weeks:             

Active assisted flexion inc pendulums

Gentle isometric cuff strengthening

Passive ER as pain allows

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After 3 weeks:       

Progress active assisted ROM to approx. 75% of normal by 5-6 weeks

Avoid horizontal adduction

Progress strengthening exercises

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After 6 weeks:       

Aim to reach FROM

 

Sports:                   

Non-contact sports and free swimming at 3 months

Contact and racquet sports at 4 months

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Driving:                  

Short distances as pain allows from 3 weeks