How long does it take to recover from a AC joint surgery?

The recovery time varies from patient to patient, but full recovery typically occurs within 6-12 weeks. A return to contact sports may require more recovery time to reduce the risk of re-injury. Some degree of protrusion at the AC joint often remains but does not require surgery.

What should I do after AC joint surgery?

Initially, following surgery, patients are asked to wear a sling for several weeks to protect the healing AC joint. After the six weeks, full range of motion is quickly re-established with the help of physical therapy and special exercises.

How do you rehab an AC joint?

Luckily, AC joint rehab usually consists of physical therapy alone, avoiding surgery altogether….AC joint recovery exercises may include:

Neck rotation.
Shoulder rolls.
Neck stretches.
Shoulder blade squeeze.
Laying down shoulder flexion.
Standing shoulder extension.
Goalpost stretch.

What can you not do after AC joint surgery?

Avoid direct palpation and mobilization on incisions/portals for 4 weeks. DO NOT lift any objects over 5 pounds with the surgical arm for the first 6 weeks. AVOID EXCESSIVE reaching and external/internal rotation for the first 6 weeks.

How successful is AC joint surgery?

What are the results of AC joint surgery? Most patients get excellent pain relief with this operation, and nearly 95 percent return to their preinjury level of activity and sports. There are few complications and most patients are very satisfied with the result.

Will my AC joint ever heal?

Depending on how severe the injury is, it may heal adequately in two to three weeks. In severe cases, the shoulder may not heal without surgery.

When can you drive after AC joint surgery?

Driving – t is likely to be six weeks before you are ready for this. Overall 90% of patients will feel their shoulder is much better after AC joint stabilisation, although for some it may take several months to maximise their benefit.

When to elevate an AC joint after surgery?

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint reconstruction rehab protocol General Considerations DO NOT elevate surgical arm above 70 degrees in any plane for the first 4 weeks post-op (active/passive range of motion).

When to use an arm sling after AC joint reconstruction?

Arm sling is used for 4 weeks post-op. Regular manual treatment should be conducted. Avoid direct palpation and mobilization on incisions/portals for 4 weeks. DO NOT lift any objects over 5 pounds with the surgical arm for the first 6 weeks. AVOID EXCESSIVE reaching and external/internal rotation for the first 6 weeks.

What are the exercises for AC joint reconstruction?

Starting at week 2- begin light resistance pain-free strengthening for triceps and biceps training with theraband in neutral. Shoulder isometrics in neutral; external rotation, internal rotation, shoulder abduction, adduction, extension and flexion. Well body exercises: squats, lunges, step ups, bridges, stationary biking.

When to see a surgeon for lateral ankle reconstruction?

Rehabilitation Guidelines for Lateral Ankle Reconstruction. PHASE I (Surgery to 6 weeks after surgery) Appointments • 2 weeks after surgery, the patient is seen by the surgeon; within 2-5 days of this first visit with the surgeon following surgery, the patient should have the first rehabilitation appointment.

How long does it take to recover from a AC joint surgery?