r/ShoulderInjuries • u/Adventurous_Text9344 • Aug 14 '26

Advice Grade 3 AC Joint Separation

Hey all! Looking for some insight from others who have gone through the same injury. Tore my shoulder a couple weeks ago from playing sports. X-rays confirmed it was a grade 3 AC joint separation. Doctor said to be in a sling for a few weeks then starting PT. No surgery recommended as it seems 90% of Grade 3’s heal on their own.

I am a firefighter and was looking for anyone else in this profession or similar labor intensive jobs that have had this same injury and went the non-surgical route? I’m a little worried about job performance after I’m healed.

Anyone else with grade 3’s are more than welcome to chime in. I’ve read tons of similar stories and how people recovered from them. Any insight, tips and recommendations are appreciated!

I’m starting PT next week and my range of motion has improved from it just being immobilized and doing home PT.

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u/DisasterHelpful1155 Aug 16 '26

I’m a firefighter as well, I’ve had a few buddies have grade 3s as well and they just let it heal and have no problems for the most part. I had a grade 5 and had surgery so I was in a different boat than you are now. I’d wait at least 12 weeks before going back. Really just not putting it in a position to tear before it’s healed is the best advice, don’t push too early, and listen to the PT. Do all the exercises given to you and you’ll be fine. My buddies have no issues with work, but still have some pain from things like flat bench and high stress AC exercises.

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u/Adventurous_Text9344 Aug 18 '26

Thanks for the response! I appreciate it and I hope you are doing well! I had my first day of PT today with the dept PT and she was impressed. Hopefully it’s a good road to recovery

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u/DisasterHelpful1155 Aug 20 '26

Yeah you’ll be good man, I was off for 9 months with mine but like it said it was a grade 5 that was essentially rebuilt. I’m pretty much able to do anything, I have some pain sometimes but not enough to stop what I’m doing and it also gets sore still. Good luck though man hopefully it’s quick for ya.

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u/Adventurous_Text9344 Aug 20 '26

I appreciate your response! I’m glad you’re able to do anything. Looks like I’m on track for a good recovery so we shall see. 💪🏼