AC Separation
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain with any shoulder motion.
- The pain decreased by having the injured arm supported by the other arm.
- A lump is sometimes seen on top of the shoulder and is painful to the touch.
- In severe injuries, the arm and hand can feel cold or numb.
Injury Description:
- Often occurs after falling and landing on your shoulder on an outstretched hand.
- The clavicle (collar bone) is forced away from the shoulder blade stretching or tearing the ligaments that hold the bones together.
- Differs from a shoulder dislocation in which the humerus (upper arm) comes out of the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket).
What Can I Do?
- Early physical therapy treatment significantly speeds recovery to allow for a quicker return to full activity.
- Rest and putting the arm in a sling allows the tissues to rest.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) and ice help reduce the inflammation and pain in the shoulder.
- Begin range of motion and strengthening activities as soon as they are tolerable.
- If symptoms persist consult your physician, surgery may be necessary.
To maximize your chances for optimal recovery, often a physician will suggest you consult with us to evaluate and modify your treatment and exercises to meet your specific needs.
For more information about AC Separation check out this link:
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/shoulder-pain/ac-joint-sprain
Our Locations
Orem
1325 S 800 E, Suite 215
Orem, UT 84097
801-373-1053
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680 East Main St., Suite 101
Lehi, UT 84043
801-768-2723
Alpine
155 West Canyon Crest Road Suite 100
Alpine, UT 84004
801-756-7061
ORROCK & MENDENHALL SPORTS MEDICINE & PHYSICAL THERAPY
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