Rehabilitation Protocol for the Shoulder
Acromioclavicular Joint Excision

Phase 1 - First 2 weeks

• Wound care as outlined on the Shoulder Arthroscopy Rehabilitation page
• You have been provided with a sling this needs to be worn almost 24hrs a day for the first 4 weeks.
• You should remove the sling every few hours to gently stretch out the elbow and wrist.

Phase 2 2-4 weeks

• You will be seen in the clinic for a wound check at 2 weeks
• The passive range of motion (PROM) of the shoulder will be assessed
• Continue with the elbow exercises.
• You may remove the sling at 4 weeks, at this stage start physiotherapy.
• The aim of physiotherapy at this stage is to regain the passive range of motion.
• Do not lift any weights greater than 2kg until 6 weeks post-op.

Phase 3 4-12 weeks

• You will be seen in the clinic at 6 weeks
• Start working to get the full range
• Aim: Full range by 12 weeks

12+ weeks

• Clinic review at 12 weeks
• If full movement has been achieved you can start working on strength
• If strength is already improving you can work on sport specific rehabilitation.
• Return to contact sports at 6 months