A shoulder separation (acromioclavicular joint injury) occurs when the
outer end of the collarbone (clavicle) separates from the end (acromion)
of the shoulder blade because of torn ligaments.
Causes of a Separated Shoulder
A separated shoulder is a common injury among football quarterbacks, but
it can happen to anyone who falls and lands on the tip of their shoulder.
The result can be an injury to the muscles, tendons and ligaments that
hold the bones in your shoulder together.
Separated Shoulder Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of a separated shoulder include severe pain at the moment
the injury occurs; limited movement in the shoulder area due to pain;
swelling and bruising. There may also be a possible deformity. The outer
end of the collarbone may look out of place, or there may be a bump on
top of the shoulder.
Separated Shoulder Treatment Options
Since the severity of injuries may vary greatly, doctors treat separated
shoulders on a case-by-case basis. Generally, if your injury is mild,
you will probably wear a sling for a few days until the pain subsides.
Use ice during the first 48 hours. You may also use anti-inflammatory
medications and pain relievers. When the pain in your shoulder eases,
you may resume your normal activities. However, if both ligaments are
torn or your injury is severe, you may need surgery. After surgery, expect
to immobilize your shoulder in a sling for up to a month. Whether treated
conservatively or with surgery, your shoulder will require rehabilitation
to restore and rebuild motion, strength and flexibility.
Schedule a consultation with a Newport Orthopedic Institute orthopedic
shoulder surgeon in Orange County to treat your separated shoulder. Call
(949) 722-7038.
*Please note that all physicians are listed in random order and search results are refreshed every hour to comply with Stark Law.
Related Testimonials
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"I never felt like Dr. Petrie & Karri were rushed to get to the next patient. They explained everything which made me feel very comfortable going through with the procedure."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie explained things very well. Staff (front desk, nurses, support) were all spectacular."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Thoughtful and thorough. I appreciate being cared for both as a patient and as a person. Thank you for being you!"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie is thoughtful and thorough. I appreciate being cared for both as a patient and as a person. Thank you for being you!"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Replacement"This has been a super easy surgery and recovery and Dr Petrie and Dr Karri gave me so much confidence!"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie and his staff are very nice and professional."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Informative - answered all questions. Great bedside manner. Inspired confidence, but did not encourage unreasonable expectations. I'm actually recovering better than anticipated."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"The genuine attention and personal care they provide is exceptional. I appreciate the kindness and patience they demonstrate to their patients."Provider: David S Gazzaniga MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Everyone was so nice and pleasant, easy to be around and made me feel less nervous day of surgery."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"The team was very thorough, knowledgeable and willing to answer questions."Provider: David S Gazzaniga MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie took a conservative approach with me at first and didn't rush me to surgery. Once we did get to surgery, he did a great job. I also appreciate the time Dr. Petrie takes with me."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Enjoyed everything - super professional, kind, knowledgeable staff, and a great facility."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Patient Reviews are anonymous and provided through GetWell, a HIPAA compliant patient engagement tool.
Orthopedic SurgeryView Profile
