AC Joint Injury

The Acromioclavicular Joint AC Joint is the joint that connects your clavicle (collar bone) to your Scapular (Shoulder blade).  

This joint can be sprained and is called a separated shoulder. This injury often occurs after a fall or direct blow to the tip of the shoulder with the arm abducted.

Classification

An injury of this region is classified by the damage done to the ligaments of the region. The Acromioclavicular (AC) ligament and Coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments. The three most common injuries are as follows.

• Type I = the AC ligament is slightly torn, no damage to the CC ligament
• Type II = the AC ligament is completely torn there little or no tear to the CC ligament.
• Type III = both the AC and CC ligaments are completely torn.
• Type IV – VI require Orthopedic Specialist review and are less common.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this injury is made by a Medical Professional.  This can usually be done by clinical examination an X-Ray is sometimes required.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury.
Type I & II are managed conservatively without surgery, and treatment consists of:

• Brief immobilization with a sling to rest the joint  
• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen
• Rest
• Physical Therapy

Type III:

• This injury may require surgery. Your health care professional will discuss treatment options to ensure the most appropriate treatment.

Return to Play

This is dependent on the Type and severity of your injury and can differ from a few days to 12 weeks (about 3 months). Your Physiotherapist or Doctor will work with you to ensure a safe and pain free prior to your return to play.

If you are experiencing ongoing pain or difficulty with a shoulder injury, please feel free to make an appointment for assessment at Sports Clinic.