What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• AC Joint Separation
• AC Separation
• Acromioclavicular Joint Separation

What is Shoulder Separation? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Shoulder Separation is a very painful and traumatic injury that involves the acromioclavicular joint (AC joint). It occurs when the ligaments that support the AC joint are stretched or torn. Hence, it is also known as Acromioclavicular Joint Separation
• A Shoulder Separation is usually caused by a high-energy impact that results from an athletic sport or motor vehicle accident. However, a fall onto the shoulder may also result in this type of shoulder injury
• A high percentage of Shoulder Separations do not require surgery. With early treatment and proper management of the condition, complications, such as osteoarthritis, may also be avoided
• The prognosis is generally good with early intervention and proper treatment of the shoulder condition

Shoulder Separations are graded on the basis of how far the collarbone has separated from the shoulder:

• Type I: Acromioclavicular (AC) joint ligaments are injured without any tearing or no distinct separation occurs
• Type II: A minor separation of the acromioclavicular joint is present
• Type III: This occurs when the acromioclavicular ligament and surrounding coracoclavicular ligaments are completely torn
• Type IV, V, and VI: Rare Shoulder Separation injuries that usually involve a complete dislocation or fracture of the collarbone 

Who gets Shoulder Separation? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Shoulder Separation may occur in individuals of all ages, racial and ethnic groups, and gender
• Overall, men who are physically active have the highest rate of occurrence of this condition 

What are the Risk Factors for Shoulder Separation? (Predisposing Factors)

A few risk factors associated with Shoulder Separation include:

• Participation in high-risk contact sports, such as football and ice hockey, among others
• Adolescents and young adults have an increased risk, due the higher probability of participating in high-impact physical activities
• Shoulder Separations are more prevalent in men than women 

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider. 

What are the Causes of Shoulder Separation? (Etiology)

Common causes of a Shoulder Separation include:

• Participation in any rough or high-impact sport
• Direct trauma to the shoulder associated with an automobile accident
• Falling on one's shoulders or with an outstretched hand 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Shoulder Separation?

Signs and symptoms of a Shoulder Separation include:

• Radiating pain from the shoulder to the arm
• Difficulty lifting the arm or shoulder; limited range of motion
• Noticeable discoloration of the skin, due to bruising
• Swollen shoulder; a visible bulge on top of the shoulder may be noticed 

How is Shoulder Separation Diagnosed?

Diagnostic methods that a physician may use to help diagnose Shoulder Separation include:

• Physical examination: A thorough physical examination can usually identify the occurrence of a Shoulder Separation. Individuals are also expected to provide an explanation of the circumstances that caused the injury. In addition to this, a complete medical history will aid in arriving at a definitive diagnosis
• X-ray of shoulder joint: An X-ray of the shoulder joint is a common method in evaluating any shoulder injury. This diagnostic method provides a clear image of the shoulder that may help confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the injury
• MRI scan of shoulder joint: It helps in determining the extent of soft tissue damage around the shoulder joint 

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. 

What are the possible Complications of Shoulder Separation?

Some complications of a Shoulder Separation may include:

• Severe dislocation of the collarbone
• Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis)
• Severe damage to the rotator cuff 

How is Shoulder Separation Treated?

Conservative methods are usually used to treat Shoulder Separations. However, a surgery may be recommended in severe cases. 

The nonsurgical treatment methods may include:

• Applying ice to the shoulder to help with pain and reduce swelling
• Complete immobilization of the shoulder with a cast is required to restrict movement for a certain period of time
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory oral medications, such as indomethacin and naproxen, may be used to treat the symptoms. These medications can help in decreasing the pain and reduce swelling
• Individuals are likely to need physical therapy: The goal of physical therapy exercises is to strengthen the muscles and increase stability within the shoulder. A physical therapist will recommend appropriate exercise programs to aid in treating the condition

The surgical treatment methods may include:

• Shoulder arthroscopy: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure that involves visualising, diagnosing, and repairing the shoulder joint using small instruments. These instruments are inserted through a small incision within the shoulder 

How can Shoulder Separation be Prevented?

To prevent a Shoulder Separation, individuals should be careful and consciously aware while performing any physical activities, such as exercises or sports, or even some normal daily activities that could lead to situations involving accidents. Children must be provided a safe environment to work, study, or play. Any potential dangers should be anticipated and appropriate safety measures adopted. 

A few ways to further help prevent unwanted injuries or a Shoulder Separation include:

• Wearing appropriate footwear (such as the proper shoe size) may help prevent accidents
• Individuals, who participate in any high-risk sports, such as football, should wear appropriate safety equipment to help prevent the possibility of any injury to the shoulder
• Wearing helmets and using seat belts while driving

What is the Prognosis of Shoulder Separation? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The long term prognosis of Shoulder Separation is usually good for a majority of individuals.

• Some individuals with a severe condition may experience long-term adverse effects due to damage to the surrounding structures
• It may take about 6-8 months for the shoulder injury to heal and in order to achieve optimal results
• When properly treated, a high percentage of individuals regain full strength and range of motion in their affected shoulder 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Shoulder Separation:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/orthopedc-disorders/