St Andrew's War Memorial Hospital ยท Spring Hill, Brisbane For referrers 07 3063 5500
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Rehabilitation After an Acromioplasty

Recovery after an acromioplasty is typically rapid, with physiotherapy starting straight away and most of the recovery happening within about six weeks.

What to expect

The post-operative recovery from an acromioplasty is typically rapid. Because nothing has been repaired or reconstructed, the shoulder does not need to be protected while tissue heals, so movement is encouraged early rather than restricted.

Your sling

A sling is optional after an acromioplasty. It can be used to rest the shoulder for the first few days after surgery if that is more comfortable. See how to wear your sling if you choose to use one; the bolster can be removed if that suits you better.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy starts immediately after the procedure. A physiotherapist will see you before you go home and will give you the exercise programme for your shoulder.

Recovery timeframe

Most of the recovery occurs within about the first six weeks after surgery.

Related pages

The exercise videos are indexed on the rehabilitation page. Please follow the programme your own physiotherapist has given you rather than working through all of the exercises shown.

These instructions are general guidance for patients of Dr Kenneth Cutbush. Your own instructions may differ depending on your procedure. Always follow the advice given to you by Dr Cutbush and your physiotherapist. If something does not look or feel right, contact the rooms on (07) 3063 5500.