Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
AC Joint Stabilisation
Acromio-clavicular (AC) joint stabilisation is a surgical procedure used to treat a dislocated collarbone. The AC joint, located where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the acromion (part of the shoulder blade), plays a key role in shoulder movement and stability. This joint is supported by important ligaments, including the acromio-clavicular ligaments and the coraco-clavicular (CC) ligaments, which help maintain alignment and allow functional shoulder motion.
When a person falls onto the tip of the shoulder, the force pushes the shoulder downward while the clavicle remains fixed in place. This impact can tear the ligaments that hold the AC joint together, causing the collarbone to appear raised or prominent under the skin. AC joint injuries are classified into six grades based on severity, the extent of ligament damage, and the direction of the clavicle displacement:
- Grade I: Mild sprain of the AC ligament
- Grade II: Complete tear of the AC ligament
- Grade III: Both AC and CC ligaments torn
- Grade IV: AC and CC ligaments torn with backward displacement of the clavicle
- Grade V: Severe upward displacement of the clavicle
- Grade VI: Downward displacement of the clavicle
Grades I–III are usually treated conservatively without surgery, with physiotherapy playing a key role in pain management, strengthening, and return to daily activities. Grades IV–VI, however, often require surgical intervention to realign the clavicle and repair the damaged ligaments. The two most common surgical techniques are the Modified Weaver-Dunn (open or arthroscopic approach) and the Surgilig procedure.
Following surgery, a structured physiotherapy programme is essential to restore shoulder mobility, rebuild strength, and support a safe return to occupational, sporting, and recreational activities.
Physiotherapy Prior to AC Joint Stabilisation
Physiotherapy before surgery plays a vital role in preparing the shoulder for recovery. It is especially effective for managing less severe dislocations (Grades I–III), where surgery may not be required. At acephysiosports.com, our physiotherapists focus on reducing pain, restoring mobility, and improving strength to help you regain normal shoulder function. Pre-surgical physiotherapy also lays a strong foundation for post-surgery rehabilitation, ultimately shortening recovery time.
- Cryotherapy and pain management
- Protective taping and bracing
- Acute symptom management
- Postural education
- Strengthening programmes
- Soft tissue massage and stretching
- Home exercise planning
- Education on surgery and functional recovery
Symptoms Following AC Joint Stabilisation
After AC joint stabilisation surgery, your shoulder will usually be supported in a protective sling for about 6 weeks. This helps stabilise the repaired ligaments and promotes healing. Some common symptoms during the initial recovery phase include:
- Pain and discomfort
- Swelling and bruising
- Shoulder stiffness
- Temporary numbness due to anaesthesia (which typically resolves)
Physiotherapy Following AC Joint Stabilisation
A structured rehabilitation programme is essential after surgery to restore shoulder strength, movement, and function. At acephysiosports.com, our expert physiotherapists conduct detailed assessments and design tailored programmes based on your needs and long-term goals.
Weeks 1–3: Early Recovery
The focus is on preventing complications, managing pain, and encouraging safe early movement. Scapular control is particularly important to ensure smooth, pain-free arm movement and to avoid secondary conditions such as impingement or instability. Treatment may include:
- Cryotherapy and pain management
- Pendulum and active-assisted exercises (below shoulder height)
- Elbow, wrist, and hand strengthening
- Postural education and scapular stability training
- Gentle mobilisation and home exercises
- Sling management and education
Weeks 4–6: Restoring Mobility
Rehabilitation progresses towards increasing mobility and correcting biomechanics while still protecting the joint. Treatment may involve:
- Active range of motion up to 90°
- Progressive scapular stability work
- Strengthening exercises within a safe range
- Gradual weaning from the sling to improve independence
Weeks 6–12: Strength & Functional Recovery
This stage focuses on regaining full movement, strength, and functional ability. By week 12, most patients achieve near-complete shoulder range of motion and begin task-specific training. Treatment may include:
- Active, assisted, and passive ROM exercises
- Rotator cuff strengthening and scapular control
- Soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation
- Proprioceptive and endurance training
- Cardiovascular conditioning
- Sport- and occupation-specific exercise integration
12+ Weeks: Advanced Rehabilitation
From three months onward, therapy progresses to high-level strengthening and advanced movement control. Full recovery may take up to six months. At this stage, the goal is to prepare the shoulder for demanding activities while preventing re-injury. Treatment may involve:
- Advanced strengthening in end-range positions
- Core and scapular stability drills
- Plyometric and power-based exercises
- Sport-specific and functional training
- Education for long-term shoulder health
Summary
AC joint stabilisation is a surgical procedure performed to repair ligament damage and restore normal alignment of the collarbone after severe dislocations. Following surgery, physiotherapy is crucial for reducing pain, restoring mobility, building strength, and enabling a safe return to work, sport, and daily activities. At acephysiosports.com, we create personalised rehabilitation programmes that target your specific goals and help you achieve long-term recovery, stability, and performance.
To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!
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