AC Joint Separation
An injury to the joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade, usually caused by a fall onto the shoulder.
About this condition
The AC joint sits at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone connects to the tip of the shoulder blade. A separation happens when the ligaments holding this joint together stretch or tear, often after a direct fall. Injuries range from mild sprains to complete separations with a visible bump.
Dr. Sonntag grades each separation and treats most mild and moderate cases without surgery, using rest, a sling, and rehabilitation. For severe separations, or when pain and weakness linger despite conservative care, he discusses reconstructing the ligaments to restore the joint's normal position and function.
Common symptoms
- Pain at the top of the shoulder
- A visible bump over the joint
- Swelling and tenderness
- Weakness when lifting or pushing
- Pain reaching across the body
- A sense that the shoulder is out of place
Common causes
- A direct fall onto the shoulder
- Contact or collision sports
- A blow to the point of the shoulder
- Cycling or motor vehicle accidents
- Repetitive overhead stress over time
How Dr. Sonntag treats this
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Learn moreCare with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
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