Acromioclavicular Injuries
Overview
Definition
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is between the upper part of the shoulder blade and the collarbone. AC joint separation happens when the ligaments of this joint become damaged or torn. This causes a separation between the acromion and the collarbone.
Shoulder Anatomy |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms, medical history, and related accident. A physical exam will be done. It may include range-of-motion tests of the shoulder. The diagnosis can be made when there is an obvious deformity of the joint.
Images may be taken of your shoulder. This can be done with x-rays .
Treatments
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment depends on the degree of your AC joint separation. Options include:
Basic Support
A support, such as a sling, will be given to prevent the shoulder from moving and reduce pain as it heals. Applying an ice pack will also help reduce swelling and promote proper healing.
Your doctor may also advise over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
Surgery
Surgery may be needed if the AC joint separation is severe. Surgical options include:
- Trimming back the end of the collarbone so that it does not rub against the shoulder blade
- Reconstructing the ligaments that attach to the underside of the collarbone
Rehabilitation
You may be referred to a physical therapist to learn exercises to strengthen and/or stabilize the area.
Prevention
To help reduce your chance of AC joint separation:
- Do not put yourself at risk for trauma to the shoulder.
- Exercise regularly to maintain strength, mobility, and to prevent falls.
- Learn the proper technique and wear protective equipment for exercise and sporting activities.
To help reduce falling hazards at work and home:
- Clean spills and slippery areas right away.
- Remove tripping hazards such as loose cords, rugs, and clutter.
- Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower.
- Install grab bars next to the toilet and shower or tub.
- Put in handrails on both sides of the stairways.
- Walk only in well-lit rooms, stairs, and halls.
- Keep flashlights on hand in case of a power outage.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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a (Acromioclavicular Joint Separation; Shoulder Separation)
RESOURCES
Ortho Info— American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://www.orthoinfo.org
Sports Med—American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine http://www.sportsmed.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References
The AC (acromioclavicular) joint. Southern California Orthopedic Institute website. Available at: http://www.scoi.com/patient-resources/patient-education/ac-acromioclavicular-joint. Accessed November 10, 2017.
Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation. Cedars-Sinai website. Available at: http://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Patients/Programs-and-Services/Orthopaedic-Center/Clinical-Programs/Sports-Medicine/Acromioclavicular-AC-Joint-Separation.aspx. Accessed November 10, 2017.
Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114040/Acromioclavicular-AC-joint-injuries . Updated January 20, 2017. Accessed November 10, 2017.
Acromioclavicular joint separation. Orthogate website. Available at: http://www.orthogate.org/patient-education/shoulder/acromioclavicular-joint-separation. Published July 20, 2006. Accessed November 10, 2017.
Shoulder separation. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00033. Updated October 2007. Accessed November 10, 2017.