AC Joint Sprain

An acromioclavicular sprain, also known as a shoulder separation, is an injury to the ligaments that connect your collarbone to the tip of your shoulder blade. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and sometimes a bump on the shoulder.

This injury is common in contact sports such as football and hockey, especially in males. The severity of an injury can range from mild fraying of a single ligament to complete rupture of all the supporting ligaments and is classified into grades based on the amount of damage.

Treatment may include rest, exercises, therapy modalities, and sometimes a sling. Applying an ice pack for 10-15 minutes each hour may help limit swelling and pain. Initially, you will need to limit activity, especially reaching overhead, behind your back, or across your body. Mild injuries may heal on their own within a week or two, while more severe injuries may take longer.