AC Joint Clavicle Excision Physiotherapy Singapore
Clavicle excision surgery helps relieve shoulder pain caused by AC joint arthritis. At ACE Physio Sports Singapore, structured physiotherapy before and after surgery ensures faster recovery, better movement, and safe return to daily activities and sports.
What is AC joint clavicle excision?
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is located at the tip of your shoulder, where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder blade. It plays a key role in overhead movements and shoulder stability.
Over time, this joint can develop arthritis, where cartilage wears down and causes pain, stiffness, and bone spurs.
Clavicle excision surgery (distal clavicle excision) is a minimally invasive procedure where the damaged end of the clavicle is removed to create space in the joint, reducing pain and improving movement.
If you are looking for shoulder surgery rehabilitation physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports provides expert care before and after surgery.
Why is surgery needed?
Surgery is usually recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief.
You may need clavicle excision if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain despite physiotherapy
- Pain when lifting arm overhead
- Pain at the tip of the shoulder (AC joint area)
- Difficulty with gym, sports, or daily tasks
- “Shoulder pain when doing push-ups or bench press”
- “Pain on top of shoulder when lifting arm”
Physiotherapy BEFORE surgery
Pre-surgery physiotherapy is crucial to improve recovery outcomes and prepare your shoulder.
At ACE Physio Sports near East Coast Road, pre-op rehab focuses on:
✔ Reducing pain and inflammation ✔ Improving shoulder mobility ✔ Strengthening surrounding muscles ✔ Correcting movement patterns
Treatment may include:
- Cryotherapy (ice therapy)
- Electrotherapy for pain relief
- Shoulder and scapular strengthening
- Postural correction
- Taping or support if required
- Home exercise program
A well-prepared shoulder leads to smoother recovery after surgery.
Learn more: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Symptoms AFTER surgery
After clavicle excision, it is normal to experience:
- Shoulder pain and soreness
- Stiffness and restricted movement
- Swelling around the joint
- Difficulty lifting the arm
- “Cannot lift arm properly after shoulder surgery”
- “Shoulder feels stiff after surgery”
A sling is usually used briefly (2–4 days), followed by early physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy AFTER surgery (phases)
Phase 1: Weeks 1–3 (Protection & Early Movement)
Focus: pain control and gentle movement
- Ice therapy for swelling
- Pain management techniques
- Early range of motion exercises
- Gentle shoulder activation
- Elbow, wrist, and hand exercises
- Rotator cuff activation
- Scapular stability work
Phase 2: Weeks 4–6 (Restore Movement & Strength)
Focus: regain full mobility
- Active and passive ROM exercises
- Progressive strengthening
- Functional movement training
- Proprioception (joint control) exercises
- Closed-chain exercises
Phase 3: Weeks 6+ (Return to Activity & Sport)
Focus: performance and full recovery
- Advanced strengthening
- Overhead mobility training
- Endurance training
- Sports-specific rehabilitation
- Return-to-gym or sport guidance
Recovery timeline
- First 1–2 weeks: Pain reduces, movement begins
- 4–6 weeks: Most daily activities improve
- 6–12 weeks: Strength and function return
- 3+ months: Full return to sports (depending on activity)
Proper physiotherapy significantly speeds up recovery and prevents complications.
What should I do?
✔ Start physiotherapy early (even before surgery) ✔ Follow your rehab plan consistently ✔ Protect your shoulder in early stages ✔ Gradually return to activity
Book expert care here: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
What shouldn’t I do?
✖ Lifting heavy weights too early ✖ Ignoring pain or stiffness ✖ Skipping physiotherapy sessions ✖ Returning to sports without clearance
These mistakes can delay healing or cause re-injury.
Why choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports Singapore, we specialise in post-surgical and sports rehabilitation.
✔ Expert shoulder rehabilitation protocols ✔ Personalised recovery plans ✔ Sports-focused physiotherapy ✔ Convenient location near East Coast Road ✔ Clear guidance from surgery to full recovery
If you are searching for clavicle excision rehab physiotherapy in Singapore, our team is ready to help you recover stronger.
Explore more: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Book Appointment
Recover safely and confidently after shoulder surgery with expert physiotherapy.
📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book Online: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Start your recovery journey with ACE Physio Sports Singapore today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my arm be in a sling after AC Joint / Clavicle Excision?
Sling use typically ranges from 2–6 weeks depending on the type of repair. Your physiotherapist will guide you on when to begin pendulum exercises and gentle movement within the sling period to prevent stiffness.
When can I lift my arm above my head after AC Joint / Clavicle Excision?
Overhead movement is usually restricted for the first 6–12 weeks to protect the repair. Range-of-motion progresses gradually under your physiotherapist's guidance, with full overhead function typically targeted at 3–6 months.
What is the most important thing I can do after AC Joint / Clavicle Excision to get a good outcome?
Following your physiotherapy programme consistently is the single most important factor. Muscles around the shoulder must be progressively strengthened to protect the repair and prevent re-injury. Consistent attendance and home exercise compliance make the biggest difference.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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