AC Separation Treatment in Arlington, VA

AC Separation Arlington VAAn AC separation is an injury to the acromioclavicular joint, which is located where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the highest point of the shoulder blade (acromion). The most common cause is a hard fall directly onto the shoulder. If the force of the fall is severe enough, it can stretch or tear the ligaments that surround and stabilize the AC joint, causing the clavicle and acromion to separate.

AC injuries can vary in severity. A mild AC separation sprains the AC ligament but does not move the clavicle out of place. A moderate AC separation sprains or tears the AC and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments and pushes the clavicle slightly out of alignment. A severe AC separation completely tears the AC and CC ligaments, causing the shoulder blade (scapula) to move downward from the weight of the arm and creating a visible bump above the shoulder.

Treatment Options for an AC Separation

In most cases, a doctor can diagnose an AC separation based on an assessment of the pain and the visible bump above the shoulder, if present. Nonsurgical treatments, such as a sling, cold therapy and medications, can help alleviate discomfort as the injury heals. Most AC separations—even those that are very severe—can be treated effectively without surgery and many patients return to—or nearly to—full function.

Surgery may be suggested to address an AC separation that causes very severe pain or a noticeable deformity. Some surgical options include:

  • Trimming the end of the clavicle to prevent it from rubbing against the acromion during movement
  • Reconstructing the ligaments that attach to the underside of the clavicle

Both procedures can be performed using open or arthroscopic techniques and with or without the use of a plate, depending on a patient’s specific needs. If a plate is used during surgery, it is usually removed after the AC separation completely heals. Whether an AC separation is treated conservatively or surgically, physical therapy is important to restore strength, flexibility and range of motion.

To help ensure proper healing and a full return to activity, an AC separation should receive prompt medical attention. If you’ve injured your shoulder, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, VA, at (703) 525-2200 today to request a consultation with an experienced shoulder specialist. Our highly respected team of shoulder specialists includes Robert P. Nirschl, M.D., M.S.; Derek H. Ochiai, M.D.; Ronald S. Paik, M.D.; and Clay Wellborn, M.D.