***SHOULDER- Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation***

***WHAT IS MY INJURY?***
The AC Joint is where the collar bone (clavicle) meets the bone at the top of the shoulder blade (acromion). Dislocation of this joint means that one or more of the joints have been damaged as a result of mild- severe separation.

Initial Treatment?

Initially sling support is advised to assist with immobilization for early healing. It is advised to use the sling when necessary for 2-6 weeks depending on the severity of the injury.

Once there is minimal to no pain, you can then begin to explore gaining range of motion back in the shoulder, feeling comfortable with this? Ditch the sling!

Can I Lift?

Again, depending on the severity of the injury you should not lift anything heavier than 1-2kg until you feel comfortable with adequate range of motion

Pain & Swelling?

It is completely normal for your shoulder to display soreness & swelling from the time of injury lasting up to a few weeks. Simple medical intervention may be advised such as : Paracetamol & Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory (Nurofen) to mitigate painful symptoms- Consult with your local GP/ Pharmacist beforehand for best options.

Recovery Time?

Most people will begin to regain movement in 1-2 weeks and be able to resume normal daily activities within 3-6 weeks. The minority who have a severe injury may be required to have surgery to correct the structure.

When Can I Return to Driving?

You can usually start driving within 3 weeks of the initial injury, again it is largely dependant on the severity of the injury and your own ability to support your arm once it is out of the sling.

When Can I Return to Work?

The amount of time you need off work is dependent on your injury and your job description/ demands (how much you use your arm at work).

As a guide, manual handling jobs like trades which require the use of tools, ladders and repetitive lifting may need up to 4-6 weeks to return to full capacity. Office workers are usually able to return to the workplace as soon as the pain has reduced enough for you to complete your normal work routine. Be sure to discuss this with your GP/ Return to work advisor before stepping back into the workplace.

EXERCISES?

As mentioned prior, as soon as it is appropriate to remove the sling, we encourage you to get the arm/ shoulder moving. This also includes movements down the chain like your elbow, wrist & hand.

OSTEOPATHIC TREATMENT?

It is recommended that you speak with your practitioner about treatment options, return to work/ sport, rehab exercises and injury prevention for the future.

WHEN CAN I RETURN TO SPORT?

Book in for a guided assessment and we can discuss the injury and cultivate a plan moving forward to get you back to doing what you love.

The sooner you get on top of the injury, the sooner you can be back out there!

MOVEMENT TIME!

Below are a few handy starters that require little to no resistance in the early stages of rehabilitation, the aim is to get the body moving early & later adding resistance/ weight as range of motion returns.

Bend and straighten your elbow so you can feel a mild to moderate stretch