A Taping Technique for the Treatment of Acromioclavicular Joint Sprains: A Case Study

Jennifer L. Shamus, Eric C. Shamus

Conservative treatment of Grade III acromioclavicular joint injuries usually consists of immobilization of the arm in a sling for 2-4 weeks followed by physical therapy. The initial phase of rehabilitation is greatly hindered by the fact that initial sling removal often exacerbates a patient's symptoms. This increase in pain leads to muscle guarding and spasms, which, in turn, limit the extent of range of motion and strengthening exercises that can be performed. The purpose of this article is to describe a taping technique aimed at reducing a patient's pain in order to facilitate more rapid gains in range of motion, strength, and function. Two case studies are presented to better describe the indications for the technique's use and demonstrate its intended results. The initial outcomes are promising for increasing patients' tolerance to physical therapy and, thus, decreasing their length of stay.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1997;25(6):390-394.

Key Words: acromioclavicular joint, taping, rehabilitation

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