Shoulder Separation (AC tear)

[jozo13]

Well, while drunk, I tripped out of a van and fell shoulder first into a wall. I'm just about 100% sure I have at least a partial tear of the AC joint in my left shoulder. My problem is I have no insurance and very little cash as I've just moved across the country and haven't secured a job yet. From what I've read, there's really nothing a doctor can do other than to confirm the diagnosis and give some pain pills.

What I hope to find out are some good physical therapy exercises for when the pain goes away. Any suggestions? Also any suggestions for treatment other than ice, asprin, and rest?

[UConnJulie]

Bummer! An AC tear is also known as a separated shoulder, and you are right, there's not much you can do but let it rest, use ice, and take an anti-inflammatory (try ibuprofen or naproxen - aka: Advil, Motrin, or Aleve).

When it is better, you might need to lay off pressing for a while. Work instead on scapular stability, posture, and lower trapezius strength. When you add back in pressing, I'd stick with pushup variations.

[jozo13]

Thank you so much. I will start finding some good exercises!