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.
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Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"I feel that both Dr. Petrie and Karri are extremely knowledgeable and skilled. I also appreciated that they were very patient and answered all my questions. But mostly, I'm just really happy so far with the results of my surgery."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
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Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Detailed explanation of what was done to repair the injury and available for any follow up questions."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
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Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Everything. He is great, and his team is fantastic. Impressed with everyone."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie and his staff are always available to answer anything."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"I just want to say thanks for every thing. God bless you Dr. Russell Petrie and all your team thank you very much."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie and his team were all extremely nice and filled me with confidence. They explained everything to me very clearly and did an amazing job with the surgery. I am excited about the results."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
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