AC Shoulder Separation and Rucking

[jdesert]

I have a 6 year old AC shoulder separation. It has caused a lot of pain, but I have been attempting to train for the ruck portion of SFAS. I recently completed a 12 mile ruck with my NG unit and couldn't move my arm due to pain and numbness for awhile .

A shoulder separation doesn't seem to be an uncommon injury, so I'm wondering if anyone has a similar experience to mine and has found ways to deal with it. I've tried tight straps, loose straps, and using the waist belt. Not much luck. My current strategy has been to lift weights in order to build up my shoulder girdle muscles, but I'm not holding my breath. The lifting initially causes pain, but I'm hoping the additional muscle will help to stabilize things.

I don't want to throw in the towel on this. My last option is to pursue surgery, but from what I've read, the surgery is hit or miss in terms of pain reduction.

I appreciate any input.