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 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
AC Joint / Clavicle Excision
The shoulder, or glenohumeral joint, connects the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) with the glenoid fossa of the shoulder blade. It is the most mobile joint in the body, allowing movement in many directions, but this flexibility also makes it prone to instability. Stability of the joint relies on the surrounding bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles working together in balance.
Because several overlapping structures contribute to stability, pinpointing the exact source of shoulder instability can be challenging. In many cases, the true cause is only confirmed during surgery when the tissues are examined directly. Anterior inferior capsular shift refers to the partial slipping (subluxation) of the humeral head forward and downward from the socket. This shift can compress nearby structures, cause pain, limit strength and movement, and increase the likelihood of dislocation.
Shoulder instability can result from either traumatic or atraumatic factors. Traumatic instability usually follows a sudden injury, such as a fall or impact, that stretches or tears the stabilising tissues. Atraumatic instability may develop gradually from repetitive strain, degenerative changes, bone abnormalities, or certain medical conditions. When conservative physiotherapy fails to restore stability, surgical management may be considered to correct the problem and reduce future risk.
Surgical Procedure for Anterior Inferior Capsular Shift
Anterior Inferior Capsular Shift surgery is performed to restore stability when the shoulder repeatedly slips forward and downward. During this procedure, one of the key rotator cuff muscles, the Subscapularis, is carefully detached, repositioned, and reattached near the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket). This creates a more supportive barrier, improving the ability of the Subscapularis to lift and stabilise the joint. With proper post-operative rehabilitation, the procedure helps reduce pain, prevent recurrent dislocation, and restore functional movement of the shoulder.
Physiotherapy After Anterior Inferior Capsular Shift Surgery
Rehabilitation is essential after surgery, and physiotherapy at acephysiosports.com is designed to guide you through every stage of recovery. Treatment is progressive, combining in-clinic sessions with structured home exercise plans to maximise healing and restore shoulder stability.
Weeks 1–3
The focus is on protecting the surgical site and preventing complications while introducing gentle mobility. Early physiotherapy includes:
- Pain and wound management
- Cryotherapy and electrotherapy
- Sling care and mobility advice
- Pendular and passive range of movement exercises
- Scapular stability training
- Hand, wrist, and elbow exercises to avoid stiffness
- Education on safe posture and movement
Weeks 7–12
By this stage, therapy intensifies to build endurance and restore functional stability. Treatment may include:
- Full range strengthening of the shoulder and scapula
- Advanced proprioceptive and balance exercises
- Sport-specific or work-specific movement training
- Endurance conditioning to reduce fatigue
- Functional activity re-integration
Weeks 12+
Long-term rehabilitation focuses on achieving full independence and returning to demanding activities. This stage includes:
- Advanced strength and stability work
- High-level proprioceptive and coordination drills
- Sports-specific rehabilitation
- Functional training for work and daily activities
- Long-term management strategies to prevent recurrence
Summary
Anterior Inferior Capsular Shift surgery is a proven solution for shoulder instability when conservative care is not enough. Physiotherapy is a crucial part of recovery, helping to restore movement, strengthen supporting muscles, and return you to your normal lifestyle, sport, or work activities with confidence.
At Ace Physio Sports, our experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapists deliver tailored programmes using advanced techniques to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
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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