Grade 1 AC Sprain

[Ballhawk]

I am 18 years old and i was just recently diagnosed with a grade 1 AC Sprain, which I suffered playing Football.. this off season is going to be huge for me as i am going to be hitting the gym a lot as well as on field training to get back to game shape and prepare for spring camps in May. I am currently in a sling as it is still painful.. How long should i be in a sling for, and when can I begin workouts? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[Heidi]

A grade 1 injury is pretty mild so should heal well within 2-3 weeks.
Only you will know when it is ok to start training again. You should be free of pain on a daily basis and with full shoulder movement before you start a gradual return to training.