Exercises To Do Following A Clavicle Resection

Clavicle resection is a surgical procedure used to address problems of the shoulder joints after non-invasive procedures and treatments, such as use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, NSAIDs and analgesics, application of moist heat, ice or ultrasound, have proven ineffective. Appropriate shoulder exercises are part of post-surgery rehabilitation to ensure optimal recovery and full range of movement of the shoulder joint. Seek the advice of your doctor or physical therapist before you do any post-surgery exercises.

Anatomy

The top of the shoulder blade or scapula is known as the acromion. The acromion meets the collar bone or clavicle to form the acromioclavicular or AC joint. Overuse of the shoulder may lead to severe inflammation and impingement, which causes tissues beneath the AC joint to pinch against the bone. Exercises like heavy bench presses and behind-the-neck presses performed over a prolonged period may lead to problems with your AC joint. According to the "Iowa Orthopedic Journal", degenerative change in the AC joint due to aging can lead to osteoarthritis.

Procedure

Clavicle resection is also known as the Mumford procedure. The procedure is usually performed by arthroscopic surgery. Any soft tissue impinging upon the acromioclavicular joint is removed. The end of the clavicle nearest the acromion is also removed. This alleviates pain and restricted movement caused by arthritis and the two bones rubbing together.

Codman's Exercises

Codman's exercises are also known as tic-toc or pendulum exercises. These are passive exercises that rely on momentum. Lean forward from the waist, rest your good arm on the back of a chair and let your injured arm hang down. Relax your shoulder muscles and use your body to initiate a series of movements of your hanging arm. Start with a circular movement and move your arm clockwise 10 times, then counter-clockwise 10 times. Next, swing your arm side to side 20 times. Then, swing your arm backward and forward 20 times.
Do these exercises three times a day.

Active Exercises

Stand in a comfortable stance with your arms by your side. Keep your elbows straight, raise one arm and point it at the ceiling. Hold for a slow count of 10 then repeat with your other arm.

Sit on a chair with your arms hanging by your side. Keep your elbows straight, palms face down and raise one arm out to the side. Do not tilt your trunk or shrug your shoulders. Hold for a count of ten, then repeat with the other arm.

Do each exercise three times a day.

Caution

Do these exercises carefully and do not try to push through the pain barrier. Increase your workload gradually as the pain decreases and your mobility improves. Consult regularly with your physical therapist so your progress can be monitored.