Bankart Repair Physiotherapy in Singapore
Bankart repair is a shoulder stabilisation surgery performed after dislocation. Physiotherapy is essential to restore stability, strength, and safely return to sports.
What is Bankart Repair / Anterior Stabilisation?
Bankart repair is a surgical procedure used to restore stability to the shoulder after repeated dislocations. It involves reattaching the torn labrum (cartilage rim) to the shoulder socket.
The shoulder is naturally a very mobile joint, which makes it more prone to instability. When the labrum and supporting ligaments are damaged, the shoulder can feel loose or may repeatedly “pop out.”
This surgery helps stabilise the joint and prevent future dislocations.
If you are looking for shoulder stabilisation physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports provides structured rehabilitation before and after surgery.
Why is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is typically recommended when:
- The shoulder keeps dislocating
- You feel instability during movement
- There is a confirmed labral tear (Bankart lesion)
- Rehabilitation alone has not resolved the issue
- You want to return to sports safely
Without proper treatment, repeated dislocations can cause further damage and long-term instability.
Common Symptoms Before Surgery
Patients often experience:
- Shoulder feels like it may slip out of place
- Repeated shoulder dislocations
- Pain during overhead or sudden movements
- Weakness when lifting or pushing
- Clicking or catching sensations
- Lack of confidence using the shoulder
Many describe it as “shoulder feels unstable” or “arm feels like it will pop out.”
Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery
Pre-surgery physiotherapy improves outcomes and prepares your shoulder.
At acephysiosport.com, this includes:
- Strengthening rotator cuff and shoulder muscles
- Improving joint control and stability
- Reducing pain and inflammation
- Training proper movement patterns
- Education on post-surgery recovery
A stronger shoulder before surgery leads to better results afterward.
Symptoms AFTER Bankart Repair
After surgery, it is normal to experience:
- Shoulder pain and soreness
- Swelling and bruising
- Stiffness and restricted movement
- Weakness in the arm
- Limited use due to sling protection
Your arm is usually placed in a sling for around 3 weeks to protect the repair.
What Should I Do After Surgery?
- Wear your sling as instructed
- Follow your physiotherapy plan closely
- Perform exercises regularly
- Protect your shoulder from sudden movements
- Gradually increase activity under guidance
What Shouldn’t I Do?
- Avoid lifting or overhead movements early
- Do not remove the sling too soon
- Avoid sudden or jerky movements
- Do not return to sports too early
- Avoid skipping rehabilitation
Physiotherapy AFTER Bankart Repair (Phases)
Phase 1: Protection & Early Movement (Weeks 1–3)
- Pain and swelling management
- Passive shoulder movements
- Elbow, wrist, and hand exercises
- Gentle activation exercises
- Postural training
Phase 2: Restore Mobility (Weeks 4–6)
- Gradual increase in shoulder movement
- Active-assisted to active exercises
- Scapular stability training
- Light strengthening exercises
Phase 3: Strength & Control (Weeks 7–12)
- Rotator cuff strengthening
- Full range of motion restoration
- Functional movement training
- Coordination and stability exercises
Phase 4: Return to Activity (3–6 Months)
- Advanced strengthening
- Sport-specific drills
- Plyometric and dynamic stability training
- Gradual return to contact sports
At acephysiosport.com, your rehabilitation is personalised to ensure safe and complete recovery.
Recovery Timeline
- Sling use: ~3 weeks
- Daily activities: 4–6 weeks
- Strength recovery: 2–3 months
- Return to sports: 4–6 months
Recovery depends on injury severity and adherence to physiotherapy.
Long-Term Recovery & Outcomes
With proper rehabilitation:
- Shoulder stability is restored
- Risk of re-dislocation is reduced
- Strength and control improve
- You can safely return to sports and daily activities
Without proper rehab, instability and re-injury are more likely.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports?
If you are looking for shoulder physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports offers:
- Personalised 1-to-1 rehabilitation
- Expertise in post-surgical shoulder recovery
- Structured return-to-sport programmes
- Evidence-based treatment approach
- Convenient location near East Coast Road
We focus on restoring full shoulder performance — not just basic recovery.
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Don’t let shoulder instability hold you back.
👉 Book now at https://acephysiosport.com 📞 Call: +65 81535374
Start your recovery with expert physiotherapy at ACE Physio Sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my arm be in a sling after Bankart Repair / Anterior Stabilisation?
Sling use typically ranges from 2–6 weeks depending on the type of repair. Your physiotherapist will guide you on when to begin pendulum exercises and gentle movement within the sling period to prevent stiffness.
When can I lift my arm above my head after Bankart Repair / Anterior Stabilisation?
Overhead movement is usually restricted for the first 6–12 weeks to protect the repair. Range-of-motion progresses gradually under your physiotherapist's guidance, with full overhead function typically targeted at 3–6 months.
What is the most important thing I can do after Bankart Repair / Anterior Stabilisation to get a good outcome?
Following your physiotherapy programme consistently is the single most important factor. Muscles around the shoulder must be progressively strengthened to protect the repair and prevent re-injury. Consistent attendance and home exercise compliance make the biggest difference.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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