Injury advice > Shoulder Injuries > AC joint Separation

AC Joint Separation

What is the acromio-clavicular joint?

The acromio-clavicular joint is where the clavicle (collar bone) meets the acromion process of the scapular. This can simply be described as the bony bit on the top of the shoulder. This joint can be injured by falling onto the shoulder, elbow or an outstretched arm. It can range in severity from a little bit of pain to a complete rupture of the joint where you might get a lump where the collar bone sticks up out of the neck.

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain at the end of the collar bone.
  • Pain when you move the shoulder joint especially with the arms above the shoulders. Possibly a bony lump where the collar bone sticks up depending on how bad the injury is.

Useful Products:

  • Shoulder Brace - helps to support and immobilize the shoulder.
  • Cold Therapy - apply ice or cold therapy in the early stages to ease pain.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat AC Joint Separation