A very common injury, particularly in contact sports.

Clinical:

• Presents with pain, swelling and tenderness over the AC joint following trauma.
• Check for other injury and neurovascular status.
• Diagnosis relies on history and physical.

X-Rays:

Used to confirm Grade of Injury.

Treatment:

Grade III Treatment:



This is controversial. The tendency today is not to operate as function is not impaired in the long term. In an overhead worker or athlete, surgery may be indicated. It is certainly not recommended if the patient is returning to contact sport.