Expert AC Joint Injury Treatment &  Physiotherapy, Melbourne

AC joint injuries can occur due to direct trauma, such as a fall or sports-related impact, or from repetitive strain, especially in individuals involved in heavy lifting or overhead motions. These injuries may disrupt the normal function of the joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and limited range of motion.

Symptoms include shoulder pain, swelling over the AC joint, a visible bump on the shoulder, discomfort near the collar bone, and limited range of motion that may require AC joint injury treatment and physical therapy for recovery.

Physiotherapy helps by reducing pain, restoring range of motion, strengthening the shoulder muscles, and preventing future injuries. It often incorporates manual physical therapy, AC joint tear treatment, and the use of an arm sling when needed.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury. Grade 1 injuries may take a few weeks, while Grade 2 and Grade 3 injuries involving the joint capsule may require longer rehabilitation and specialised care in sports medicine.

Yes, most AC joint injuries can be effectively treated with physiotherapy, which focuses on improving muscle strength and restoring shoulder motion. AC joint physical therapy treatment is typically used to help alleviate pain and improve function. Surgery is only required for severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment.

Strengthening exercises for the shoulder, particularly targeting the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles, are essential to support the AC joint after initial treatment for injuries caused by a direct blow.

Physiotherapy helps by reducing pain, improving joint mobility, and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder to support the joint, often in combination with pain medication during the first up to six weeks of recovery. This is all part of a comprehensive AC joint treatment plan to ensure effective rehabilitation and long-term relief.

Shoulder separation refers to an injury to the AC joint, often caused by a fall or direct blow. It involves damage to the ligaments that connect the acromion and clavicle. The severity ranges from mild to severe, with type iii injury often requiring more intensive treatment.

In most cases, a partial tear of the AC joint ligaments can heal with physical therapy. Treatment focuses on strengthening the shoulder girdle and restoring mobility. However, more severe tears may require surgical intervention.

An acromioclavicular joint injury typically occurs from a direct blow to the shoulder or a fall onto an outstretched arm, which causes damage to the ligaments and bones in the shoulder area, often requiring AC joint injury treatment to facilitate recovery and restore function.

A type ii injury is a moderate sprain where the ligaments are stretched but not torn, while a type iii injury is more severe and involves complete disruption of the ligaments. The latter may require surgery for full recovery.

A physical examination helps determine the severity of the injury, including assessing the range of motion and stability of the AC joint. It is critical to develop an appropriate AC joint injury treatment plan for the patient to ensure effective recovery and rehabilitation.

Patient education is essential in teaching individuals how to manage their injuries, prevent further damage, and perform exercises safely. It also helps with understanding the rehabilitation process and expected recovery timelines.

In many cases, AC joint surgery can be avoided with proper physical therapy. Surgery is generally recommended only for severe injuries like a complete tear or when non-surgical methods fail to restore function.

Pendulum exercises are commonly used in the initial stages of rehabilitation to gently restore mobility. As recovery progresses, AC joint injury treatment includes strengthening exercises targeting the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles to help stabilize the AC joint.

For nonacute acromioclavicular joint pain, AC joint injury treatment through physical therapy focuses on improving joint mobility, strengthening the muscles around the joint, and managing pain through modalities such as ice therapy or dry needling.

A shoulder dislocation often results from trauma or a direct blow to the shoulder, which can also damage the AC joint. Both injuries may occur together and require a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

A mild AC separation can often heal with conservative treatment, including physiotherapy, rest, and ice therapy. However, more severe separations, such as type IV, may require surgery.

Strong ligaments are crucial for shoulder stability, preventing AC joint injuries such as separations and sprains. Regular strengthening exercises as part of an AC joint injury treatment plan can help maintain ligament strength and protect the joint from further damage.

Not all AC joint injuries require surgery. Most injuries, including type II injuries or mild sprains, can be treated conservatively with physical therapy. Surgery is reserved for severe cases like a complete tear or shoulder dislocation.

With proper rehabilitation, including physical therapy and strengthening exercises, most individuals can return to their normal activities and normal motion. The timeline for return to activity depends on the severity of the injury and treatment adherence.