AC Joint Injury Symptoms

An AC or acromioclavicular joint injury (separation) occurs between the clavicle and scapula bones on top of the shoulder. Varying degrees of separations (grades 1-6) cause different levels of ligament tears and symptoms. People who play contact sports (impact of falls) or lift heavy weights are prone to AC joint injuries. Symptoms can can vary from mild aching to more severe problems. Treatment usually includes rest, heat, medication and rehabilitation exercises.

Types of Symptoms

• Grade 1 injuries of the AC joint involve partial tears of the AC ligaments between the clavicle and scapula. Symptoms usually include swelling and mild to moderate pain. There is usually more swelling and pain with a grade 2 injury because the ligament is completely severed. According to medical professionals at Sportsinjuryclinic.net, "Pain may feel widespread throughout the shoulder until the initial pain resolves, following this it is more likely to be a very specific site of pain over the joint itself."

Other Types of Symptoms

• Grade 3-6 AC joint injuries involve complete severance of multiple ligaments on and beneath the clavicle. Displacement of the clavicle bone is what differentiates grade levels. With all of these levels, there will usually be extreme pain, bruising as well as a popping sensation in the shoulder. If nerves are severed, it may cause some weakness or even numbness in the arm. A person will usually have a noticeable lump on top of their shoulder.

Effects of Rest, Ice & Medication

• Rest is usually recommended for those who sustain AC joint injuries. Rest prevents further aggravation of the injury and can help control symptoms such as inflammation and pain. Ice can help reduce swelling and pain by temporarily limiting the flow of blood and lymph fluid. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can also reduce swelling and pain. And in more severe cases, cortisone shots may be administered to reduce painful swelling.

Benefits of Exercises

• Exercise routines can be introduced early on with less severe AC joint injuries. Exercises can include stretching, range-of-motion and strength-building exercises. These exercises are recommended once pain is under control. Exercising can help alleviate stiffness in the shoulder and promote blood (with its healing properties) flow to the area. Swinging the arm freely like a pendulum or pulling the elbow toward the chest are types of range-of-motion and stretching exercises, respectively. Light dumbbell lifting can help strengthen the joint and adjacent muscles and alleviate pain and other symptoms.

Time Frame

• A person can overcome grade 1 AC joint injuries and symptoms within a couple weeks. Grade 2 injuries can take twice as long. People who are more proactive with their treatments usually recover more quickly. Grade 4-6 injuries usually require surgery as well as a rehabilitation period.