Shoulder Separation - Ac Separation
A shoulder separation is referred to as a ligamentous injury to the joint between the collar bone and shoulder blade, the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. Shoulder separations almost exclusively occur with traumatic injuries directly to the top of the shoulder. AC separations are common injuries associated with football, bicycle accidents, and baseball. AC separations can range from a sprain of the joint to a complete tear of the ligaments. Symptoms are characterized as immediate onset of sharp pain and swelling. The patient may notice a prominence over the top of the shoulder. The diagnosis of an AC separation can be made with physical examination by a physician and usually confirmed with an XR and/or an MRI
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you sustained an AC separation
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
- Stretch before, during, and after an activity, to allow for more joint pliability.
- Immobilization of the shoulder take place in an Arm Sling and/or Shoulder Immobilizer
- Shoulder pads have been shown to make a tremendous difference in preventing separations and even dislocations.
- A Shoulder Harness that attaches to the arm may prevent excessive movement