AC Joint Reconstruction Guidelines
The information below is meant as a guideline only. The professional skills of a therapist must come into play for each individual patient.
Dr. Chris Evensen
PHASE ONE
0-4 WEEKS
RANGE OF MOTION
Gentle supine PROM all directions under 70°. Avoid horizontal adduction.
IMMOBILIZER
Remove only for exercise and hygiene which should be performed supine with gravity eliminated
EXERCISES
Pendulums, hand ball squeezes, light resistance band bicep/tricep in neutral.
Gentle shoulder isometric exercises
PHASE TWO
4-8 WEEKS
RANGE OF MOTION
AROM/PROM to 90°, External rotation to 70°. Continue to avoid horizontal adduction
IMMOBILIZER
None
EXERCISES
Begin light resistance training with shoulder in neutral position in all planes.
PHASE THREE
8-12 WEEKS
RANGE OF MOTION
Progress to full AROM in all planes
IMMOBILIZER
None
EXERCISES
Scapular stabilizers, protraction, retraction, functional strengthening of shoulder.
PHASE FOUR
12+ WEEKS
RANGE OF MOTION
Full AROM in all planes.
IMMOBILIZER
None
EXERCISES
Begin weight-bearing activities in prone and quadruped positions.
Advance overhead cuff strengthening.
Begin sport-specific exercises after week 16 when cleared by MD.
