Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury Page

Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury Heading

Anatomy

A/C Joint Subluxation Anterior View #1
A/C Joint Subluxation
Anterior View

The clavicle (collar bone) and the acromion process of the shoulder blade join together to form the Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint.
The AC joint is held together with the support of two ligaments: acromioclavicular, coracoclavicular.

A/C Joint Subluxation Posterior View #2
A/C Joint Subluxation
Posterior View

What Causes It?

An injury to the AC joint is most often a result of a blow or fall taken on the point of the shoulder.
Falling on an outstretched hand also commonly injures the AC joint.

There are three degrees of AC joint injury:

1^st Degree (Sprain)
2^nd Degree (Subluxation)
3^rd Degree (Dislocation)

1^st Degree

incomplete tear of the acromioclavicular ligament
no obvious deformity present

2^nd Degree

complete tear of the acromioclavicular ligament and partial tear of the coracoclavicular ligaments
minor step deformity present

3^rd Degree

complete tear of the acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments
obvious step deformity present

Symptoms

Pain:

Pain is localized over the top of the tip of the shoulder.
Pain is usually made worse with all shoulder movements and may be made worse with deep breathing.

Inflammation:

Inflammation and bruising will be present at the site of injury.
It is the result of torn ligament fibers.

X-Rays:

Depending on the extent of the injury, the x-ray may show a separation or step deformity of the AC joint.

What Should You Do?

Rest from painful activities.
Icing will help decrease the inflammation and the pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by the doctor.
Sling to be used with 2^nd and 3^rd degree AC joint injuries.

Will Physiotherapy Help Me?

A physiotherapist will assess your condition and determine the origin of your pain. Your treatment plan will address the local symptoms such as pain and inflammation and work to regain strength and function in the shoulder. With the help of modalities, physiotherapy will reduce your symptoms and promote healing.

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