Home | Shoulder Injuries | Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) separation ("shoulder separation")

Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) separation ("shoulder separation")

Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) separation ("shoulder separation") - acute injury of the soft tissue stabilizing the joint at the end of the collarbone (clavicle) and top of the shoulder blade (acromion).

Most commonly occurs with sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents with a direct blow over this joint. Signs/symptoms include pain, swelling, limited shoulder motion and function, instability of the joint, and/or bump at the end of the collarbone.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the separation and generally is nonsurgical including immobilization, rest, anti-inflammatory medicines, and activity modifications.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is for severe separations with cosmetic deformity to restore the soft tissue stabilization of this joint.

Testimonial

Georgeanna C.
Date: Jul 15, 2010

In June of 2010, I had a full knee replacement done by Dr. Chen and less than three weeks post surgery I am walking with a cane outside and occasionally forgetting the cane in my home, going up and...