Physical therapist examination, evaluation, and intervention following the surgical reconstruction of a grade III acromioclavicular joint separation.
OBJECTIVE
This case report describes the examination, intervention, and outcome of a patient following the surgical reconstruction of a grade III acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation. Detailed postoperative interventions have not previously been described in the literature.


METHODS
The patient was a 34-year-old male college professor with a left grade III AC joint separation and no prior restrictions of upper-extremity function. After 12 weeks of presurgical treatment, the patient's complaints included crepitus and the inability to push open heavy doors.


METHODS
Surgical reconstruction of the AC joint and a 4-month graded exercise program were used.


RESULTS
The patient returned to preinjury levels of function 5 months after surgery with scores of 3.33/100 and 0/100 on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and optional Sport/Music or Work Module, respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
An intervention focusing on restoring shoulder strength, range of motion, flexibility, and neuromuscular control of the shoulder following a surgical reconstruction of the AC joint can lead to a successful functional outcome.
Culp
Lisa B
LB
Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
Romani
William A
WA
D000173:Acromioclavicular Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000145:classification / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D010808:Physical Examination; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011182:Postoperative Care; D020127:Recovery of Function; D016683:Supine Position