Acomioclavicular Joint (AC joint) Injuries
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is at the top of the shoulder between the collarbone and shoulder blade and is stabilised by many ligaments. It is essential for overhead and across body movement of the arm as well as pushing, pulling and lifting movements.
An acromioclavicular joint injury is often referred to as shoulder separation, and must not be confused with shoulder dislocation.
Causes
An acromioclavicular joint (AC) injury can be caused by the ligaments supporting the acromioclavicular joint becoming overstretched. The AC joint ligament damage that patients experience can vary from a mild ligament strain to complete ligament tears and deformity.
The acromioclavicular joint can also be injured by falling with an outstretched arm or a collision, which is why it’s more common in athletes and older patients. It is also a common injury sustained when landing on your shoulder from falling off a bicycle or mountain bike
Symptoms
An acromioclavicular ligament sprain can be indicated by a pain on the top of the shoulder, which is made worse by lifting heavy items or moving the arm overhead or across the body. Symptoms also include swelling and bruising, or a hard visible lump on top of the shoulder, which would indicate a displacement of the collarbone.
Treatment
Following an X-ray to determine that there is no fracture, most patients feel better following a few days of rest and by using a sling, tape or shoulder brace. However, full ligament healing can take up to 10 to 12 weeks.
In some cases, surgery is required repair the AC joint. Following surgery, you will be in a sling for around 2 weeks with postoperative physiotherapy to restore full shoulder motion and strength.
FULL LIST OF OUR SHOULDER CONDITIONS
Acomioclavicular Joint
(AC joint) Injuries
Frozen Shoulder
(Adhesive Capsulitis)
Shoulder Dislocation
and Instability
Rotator Cuff
Problems of the shoulder
Shoulder Replacement
(Arthritis)
Calcific Tendonitis
(shoulder tendons)
Fractures of the shoulder
Proximal humerus & scapula
Fracture of Collarbone
(Clavicle)
Shoulder Impingement
(Rotator Cuff)