AC Joint ReconstructionRehab Protocol

Phase One (0-6 weeks)

  • Shoulder immobilizer – remove for exercises and hygiene (can d/c at 4 weeks if patient comfortable).

  • Decrease pain.

  • Supine PASSIVE ROM as tolerated avoiding shoulder extension and horizontal adduction.

  • Modalities.

  • Therapeutic Exercises

  • Closed chain scapular stabilizers, deltoid, and rotator cuff while supine or with eliminated.
  • ROM and strengthening elbow and shoulder isometric exercises.

Phase Two (6- 12 weeks)

  • Active ROM in prone position.

  • Progress ex. In phase 1, active-assisted strength ex. In all ROM’s, vertical positioned strength ex. Begin at 12 weeks.

  • Watch out for capsular contractures.

Phase Three (12- 24 weeks)

  • Progress to full active ROM in all planes.

  • Advance strengthening as tolerated.

  • Progress exercises from previous phases

  • Begin sport specific exercises.

  • Increase strength of the entire shoulder complex musculature.

  • Isotonic dumbbell shoulder flexion, abduction, shrugs, and bench press.

  • Progress to Plyometric drills of the upper extremity.

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