A separated shoulder occurs due to an injury to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. This can be a mild sprain to a complete tear. Usually this injury is a soft-tissue or ligament injury but it may include a fracture.
Severity of injury ranges from
- Grade I Separation occurs when there is a Sprain of the Acromioclavicular (AC) ligament that connects the Clavicle (collarbone) to the Acromion (Shoulder blade).
- Grade II Separation is a more severe tear to the AC ligament as well as the coracoclavicular (CC) ligament. There will be a more pronounced ‘bump’ or step down deformity over the shoulder.
- Grade III Separation is a complete tear of both the AC ligament and the CC ligament, with a very noticeable deformity of the shoulder.
Causes
- Fall directly on the shoulder
- Sharp blow to the top of the shoulder
- Sports related
- Car accident
- Fall
- Cyclist falling over the handlebars
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain
- Deformity
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Loss in Range of Motion
- Instability
- Pain with overhead movements
- Sleeping on the affected side
Diagnosis
- X-ray
- Physician Exam
Treatment
Non-Surgical
- Ice -Is an important treatment of most acute soft tissue injuries.
- Sling -Frequently, a sling is needed and helpful for the first few days after an injury. This helps to support the weight of the arm and to restrict motion. It is usually advised, however, to begin some motion exercises within a few days once the immediate pain has stopped.
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications-May be advised, either over-the-counter or by prescription.
- Physical Therapy -You may require physical therapy, particularly once the immediate pain has stopped within a few days. The decision for this often is made during a follow-up visit.
Surgical
- Shoulder Separation Surgery
