Mumford Procedure Overview
In the shoulder joint, the clavicle attaches to the scapula through the acromion, the bone on top of the shoulder. The joint at this location, called the acromioclavicular joint, can sometimes become narrowed and arthritic and spurs can form on the undersurface. This arthritic development can be due either to genetic osteoarthritis or overloading from weightlifting, years of push-ups, or years of overhead work and activity. When the joint is painful and not responsive to physical therapy or cortisone injections, it is helpful to open the joint space through a procedure called a Mumford procedure.

Mumford Procedure - Surgical Technique
At The Stone Clinic, our Mumford procedure is performed arthroscopically by carefully debriding the undersurface of the joint, removing the spurs, and opening the undersurface joint space. If the arthritis is concentrated at the inferior half of the joint, we will sometimes preserve the superior connection in order to maintain stability of the joint. The surgical technique is performed at an outpatient surgery center under a local anesthetic block with arthroscopic visualization of the joint. A small shaver, burr, and a heating unit are brought into the joint. The spur and joint space are identified and smoothed in order to open the joint space and improve shoulder motion.

The success rate of this procedure is extremely high, with complications being extremely low since the joint is not completely opened. 

Mumford Procedure Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation program involves immediate physical therapy with range of motion and strengthening exercises, concentrating on avoiding loss of motion and stiffness. Recovery usually takes 3 - 4 weeks for the natural swelling from surgical intervention to calm down. Many activities are permitted during the recovery period including swimming and use of the arm for driving, typing, texting, and general low-load work.