AC Separation
  1. Shoulder Injuries
  2. AC Separation
Acromioclavicular (AC) Separation

Click to View Products for AC Separation

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is the meeting of the clavicle and the acromion (roof of the scapula). This union is joined by the acromioclavicular ligament AC separations typically occur when there is a fall on the shoulder.
 
This can cause a disruption or separation of the ligament holding the clavicle and the scapula resulting in shoulder pain. Football and hockey are common sports activities where AC separations are seen.

AC separations are graded on the degree of injury to the tissues.

  • Grade I: A mild AC separation, the ligaments are stretched, but not torn with shoulder pain.
  • Grade II: A moderate AC separation, some of the ligaments are torn. These sprains may involve some loss of function and significant shoulder pain.
  • Grade III: A severe AC separation, there is a complete tear all the way through the ligament. These are significant injuries that require medical or surgical care to ensure recovery. As the ligament tears away from the bone, it may also take a small chip of bone with it, resulting in an avulsion fracture.
Symptoms include:
  • Shoulder pain with swelling and deformity with grade III AC separation.
  • Bruising with a bump over the injury site.
  • Tearing or popping sensation with movement.
  • Inability to move arm away from the body due to severe pain.
Treatment:
Non-surgical treatment
  • Protection from further injury with a sling or brace.
  • Rest, limiting movement of the injured shoulder as much as possible.
  • Cold therapy to stimulate blood flow and relieve the pain associated with inflammation. Cold therapy should be applied several times over the course of the day.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Naprosyn and Celebrex may be used to decrease shoulder pain. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting these medications.
Surgical treatment

Grade III AC separations in which the ligaments may be severely torn and where the collarbone is compromised may require surgical repair to hold the collarbone in place. The AC joint is relocated and torn ligaments are repaired. The surgeon may use a screw or some other fixation to hold the joint in place as the ligaments heal.


Recommended Products for AC Separation
2 Prong Buckle Closure

2 Prong Buckle Closure
Product Rating:

Our economy clavicle support with a foam base and foam padded 1 1/8 inch web straps. Comfort and value combined with 2 way adjustability for positive locking and support. Closes with secure 2 prong b  Read more..

Starting From: $10.56

ACO Acromioclavicular Orthosis

ACO Acromioclavicular Orthosis
Product Rating:

Buy Direct from US Manufacturer Designed with the extensive input of athletic trainers, the SSO™ can facilitate, restrain or restrict a multiple array of injuries based on the specific needs of the   Read more..

Starting From: $86.40

Felt Padded With Two-Way Closure

Felt Padded With Two-Way Closure
Product Rating:

No irritation with the large felt base back pad. Hygienic, comfortable 1 1/2 inch straps with felt shoulder pads, covered for easy cleaning. The 3 prong buckle closure and 2 way adjustability assures  Read more..

Starting From: $15.13

Grey Foam Split Strap Post-Op Compression Cryotherapy Shoulder Wrap

Grey Foam Split Strap Post-Op Compression Cryotherapy Shoulder Wrap
Product Rating:

The "Split Strap" design of this wrap was specially designed to accommodate the female anatomy. The shoulder gel bag pockets are contoured for maximum fit while the terrycloth interface protects the  Read more..

Starting From: $24.74

Slide Bar Closure

Slide Bar Closure
Product Rating:

The large felt lined perforated vinyl back pad assures proper weight distribution to make this a very comfortable and stable support. The foam padded 1 1/8 inch web straps are covered for easy care.   Read more..

Starting From: $15.13

SSO Shoulder Stabilizing Orthosis

SSO Shoulder Stabilizing Orthosis
Product Rating:

Buy Direct from US Manufacturer Designed with the extensive input of athletic trainers, the SSO™ can facilitate, restrain or restrict a multiple array of injuries based on the specific needs of the   Read more..

Starting From: $11.70

Velcro Closure

Velcro Closure
Product Rating:

The rugged perforated vinyl and felt is the base for this popular model. High profile Axillary straps are foam padded and covered for easy care. Our most popular clavicle support utilizes Velcro® clo  Read more..

Starting From: $14.07

AC Separation