This operative procedure aims to stabilise the acromio-clavicular joint.
 
Day 1 Post-op

• Polysling and body belt for 6 weeks
• Finger, wrist and Radio-ulnar ROM exercises
• Supported elbow flexion and extension in standing
• Teach axillary hygiene
• Teach postural awareness

 2 Weeks – Review by Consultant / team
 3 Weeks

• Retain mastersling until week 6, but the bodybelt is removed.
• Start gentle pendular exercises

 6 Weeks

• The sling is removed, and the patient begins formal physiotherapy
• Avoid all range of movement above shoulder height until 12 weeks.
• Aims of Physiotherapy
• Regain scapular and gleno-humeral stability working for shoulder joint control rather than range
• Gradually increase range of movement
• Strengthen the rotator cuff muscles
• Progress proprioception through open and closed chain exercises.
• Incorporate core stability exercises

 Return to Functional Activities

• Driving 6 weeks
• Return to work, light duties as tolerate heavy duties at 4 months.
• Swimming: Breaststroke 8 weeks
• Golf 4-6 months
• Contact sport 6 months – including horse riding, football, rugby, martial arts, racquet sports, and rock climbing