AC Joint Sprain
Also called "AC joint separation," this is an injury to the ligament which holds the acromioclavicular joint together. It is usually caused when you fall on your outstretched arm. The pain is centered at the end of the collarbone (clavicle). Pain will be worse when you attempt to lift your arm above your shoulder or across your body.
AC Joint Sprain at Work
An AC joint sprain is a common injury in more than just sports. It can occur when you take a direct hit to the point of your shoulder or if you fall, which can easily happen in the workplace. Perhaps you collide with another worker or fall hitting your shoulder on a hard surface. The injury could be relatively minor or in serious cases, result in severe pain.
What is the AC Joint?
“AC” is short for acromioclavicular, the AC joint being an easier, abbreviated way to say acromioclavicular joint. This particular injury is often referred to by a variety of different terms:
• AC Joint Separation or Shoulder Separation
• Torn AC Joint
• AC Joint Subluxation
• AC Joint Injury
• AC Joint Dislocation
• Acromioclavicular Joint Injury
Even though it goes by many names, an AC joint sprain is injury directly to the acromioclavicular joint of your shoulder. The shoulder has connective tissue and ligaments. There is a portion of the shoulder blade called the acromion. It forms a joint with the clavicle or collarbone. Therefore, called the acromioclavicular joint or AC joint. When its ligaments and tissue are excessively stretched or traumatized, they can be torn.
Doctor Accurately Diagnoses AC Joint Sprains in Greater Milwaukee
Most people who experience an AC joint sprain know it right away. The pain is immediate and significant. Afterwards, you will continue to experience pain during normal activity, such as lying on your side, moving your arm, or trying to lift something. Any pulling or pushing with the arm will be much more difficult, and should immediately consult a Milwaukee shoulder physician. If the sprain is minor, simple rest will help. Most patients can safely return to work in as little as 2 weeks or less.
In more severe cases, you may notice a “bump” on the end of your shoulder. The tip of your collar bone might stick upward if the connective tissue holding the AC joint is significantly torn. There may also be swelling, redness, or even bleeding.
If you suspect a work injury AC joint sprain, make an appointment as quickly as possible to see Dr. Ted Gertel is the Wisconsin Work Injury Doctor. The condition can usually be diagnosed accurately with a simple examination. Dr. Gertel is an experienced sports injury specialist who has successfully treated leading professional athletes. He will get the appropriate diagnostic tests including X-rays, MRI or CT scans to provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment.
AC Joint Sprains May Require Several Different Treatments
If the AC joint sprain is more serious, your doctor will want you to have a longer period of rest and rehabilitation. There are many treatment options depending on the nature of your injury. These can include putting your arm in a sling, soft tissue massage, ice or heat treatment, joint mobilization, ultrasound treatments, protective taping, anti-inflammatory medicine (often available over-the-counter) and therapeutic exercises. Other treatments may include shoulder supports, TENS Unit (for pain relief) or therapeutic pillows. As you improve and return to normal activity, it will be important to do so in a gradual process over time.
Sometimes patients don’t improve sufficiently after an AC joint sprain injury. When this happens, your sports medicine specialist may recommend surgery. Milwaukee’s orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Gertel, will see to it you get well.
