Medical Advice on Acromion

The acromion is a bony protrusion at the top of the shoulder blade (scapula) that begins the "acromion process," the structure of joints and ligaments that span the shoulder blade and clavicle (collarbone). The acromioclavicular joint is the place where your shoulder joins with your collar bone and is particularly vulnerable to injury for those in contact sports and heavy physical labor.

Acromion Injuries

• According to the Mayo Clinic, most injuries to the acromion occur as the result of falling onto your shoulder or rough contact sports. Those who play football, hockey (field and ice), volleyball, roller derby and other sports that involve colliding with other players or possibly falling are at higher risk of developing an injury to their acromion. Those whose work involves heavy lifting are also at risk of having an injury to their acromioclavicular joint.

Separated Shoulder

• Separated shoulder is another phrase for an acromion injury or injury to the acromioclavicular joint. When the bone between the acromion and clavicle fractures or is torn, it causes severe pain in the shoulder. In addition to pain, other symptoms of an acromion injury are weakness in your arm and shoulder, bruising and/or swelling in your shoulder and upper arm, as well as a limited range of motion. Unlike most bone/muscle related injuries, the Mayo Clinic suggests that the majority of separated shoulder injuries do not require surgery.

Treatment

• There are six types of separated shoulder injuries. Type I injuries are the least severe and can heal quite quickly as there is no tearing or fracturing, just a strain on the bones and tissues. Type II injuries usually signal a slight separation of tissues, but also do not require surgery. Type III involves the complete tearing of the acromioclavicular joint and can require surgery. Types IV through VI are the more severe shoulder separation injuries and often need surgical treatment. Less severe injuries can be treated by limiting your movements of the afflicted shoulder, over-the-counter pain medication to reduce discomfort and using ice packs to reduce swelling and irritation.