Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury

Symptoms may include:

• pain on the top of the shoulder which is exacerbated by heavy lifting, pushing, pulling and cross-body movements
• swelling and/or bruising
• restriction in your shoulder movements
• if your collar bone (clavicle) is displaced a lump may be visible on top of your shoulder

AC joint injuries are graded by severity from Grade I (minimal joint disruption) to Grade VI (severe injury).

Your consultant will perform a physical examination of your shoulder and may conduct an X-ray or MRI to arrive at your diagnosis: These should be performed to assess the grade of injury which determines the best treatment options.

Treatment options correspond to the grades:

• Grades I and II no displacement. These do not require surgery and most recover with a sling and mobilisation when comfortable. Very few may require a steroid injection if it remains painful.
• Grade III some displacement/subluxation. This is mostly treated without surgery but surgery may be considered depending on your activity level.
• Grades IV to VI complete displacement. These are usually treated with surgery. This involves the use of an artificial ligament. You may be in a sling after surgery, followed by physiotherapy.