AC Joint Injury Overview
The AC (acromioclavicular) joint is located in the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the acromion process of the shoulder blade (scapula). This joint is reinforced by ligaments which provide stability while allowing for some motion to occur between the collar bone and acromion. The ends of the bones are covered by cartilage within the joint. Most people can identify their AC joint by simply feeling it on the top of their shoulder – it is the bony bump that is felt on top and is typically covered by a bra strap.
The most common cause of an AC joint injury is a fall directly onto the shoulder. This can lead to a shoulder sprain in mild cases or to a separated shoulder in extreme cases. A separated shoulder is associated with injures to the ligaments that surround and stabilize the AC joint. If the trauma is severe enough, the ligaments attaching to the underside of the clavicle can tear, creating a complete separation of the collarbone and acromion process (termed an “AC Separation”). Shoulder specialist, Dr. Jeff Padalecki can help patients living in the greater Austin, Texas area alleviate AC joint pain following a separated shoulder.
There are varying grades of an AC joint injury ranging from a Grade 1 injury which presents with mild shoulder pain and no deformity to a Grade 6 injury which is a complete disruption of the ligaments.
AC Joint Injury Symptoms
Symptoms of an injured AC joint can range from tenderness and minor swelling to intense shoulder pain that may signify a complete shoulder separation. In the more severe case, the separation could be visible to the naked eye creating a disfigured bony appearance from under the skin and bruising on top of the skin. A pop or snap is also often heard during more severe cases.
AC Joint Injury Diagnostic Testing
A thorough physical exam and X-ray can often lead to a concrete diagnosis of an AC joint injury. MRI can sometimes be helpful to determine the grade of injury and assess which ligaments have been damaged. It is important to rule out any additional injury associated with the bone such as a fracture.
AC Joint Injury Treatment
Non-Surgical
The initial treatment of an AC joint injury consists of controlling the pain by icing the inflamed area until the swelling has subsided, and resting the joint by using a shoulder sling for support. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications can help to minimize the pain and inflammation associated with this injury.
Surgical
There are numerous surgical techniques to treat AC joint injuries depending on their severity and grade. These surgeries attempt to stabilize the end of the clavicle in its proper position. Dr. Padalecki will evaluate the injury to determine the best surgical technique to reconstruct the important coracoclavicular ligaments. One goal of the surgery is to hold the clavicle in position while the reconstructed ligaments heal.
Post-Op Instructions
A rehabilitation program will be prescribed at your first post-operative visit with Dr. Padalecki and usually involves a period of 4-6 weeks of immobilization with sling use. Following this, a slow, progressive return to activities will be begun under the direction of a physical therapist. Rehabilitation after surgery is as important as the surgical repair itself. Without proper rehab, the chance of full recovery is diminished.
For additional resources on an AC joint injury, or to learn more about treatment options to alleviate AC joint pain, please contact the Austin, Texas orthopedic practice of shoulder specialist Dr. Jeff Padalecki.