Author: Ryan Circh, MD

Educational Pearls:

• A "shoulder separation" is when the clavicle separates from the scapula - also referred to as an acromio-clavicular (AC) separation

• Diagnosis is clinical: pain over AC joint, pain with adduction, and difficulty raising harm past horizontal

• Early range of motion can be critical for recovery

References:

Lemos MJ. The evaluation and treatment of the injured acromioclavicular joint in athletes. Am J Sports Med. 1998 Jan-Feb;26(1):137-44. Review. PubMed PMID: 9474415.

Monica J, Vredenburgh Z, Korsh J, Gatt C. Acute Shoulder Injuries in Adults. Am Fam Physician. 2016 Jul 15;94(2):119-27. Review. PubMed PMID: 27419328.