The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is made of up the acromion (part of the scapula), the distal end of the clavicle (collarbone), and three main ligaments, acromioclavicular ligament, the coracoclavicular ligament, and the coracoacromial ligament. This is the top portion of the shoulder complex, and has to move as we raise our arms.  Injury to this joint usually occurs from a direct blow to the shoulder, whether it be from a sports injury, or a fall on the shoulder.  You may hear the terms AC joint sprain, or separation used to describe your injury. If injured, there is often damage done to the ligaments listed, and potentially other surrounding soft tissue. It will be important to rehabilitate the shoulder complex, to avoid further damage to the AC joint and surrounding tissue. Our staff helps to manage acute symptoms, and rehabilitate the shoulder for return to function.

Associated symptoms:

• Shoulder pain
• Decreased range of motion
• Difficulty lifting arm
• Neck pain
• Shoulder blade pain
• Swelling  
• Pain lying on the affected side