A separated shoulder is a condition that happens when the ligaments between the collarbone and shoulder blade are torn. Shoulder separations can be caused by direct falls onto the shoulder, car accidents and sports injuries. Most people recover within two to 12 weeks without surgery. Surgery may be needed in severe cases.
A separated shoulder occurs when the ligaments between the collarbone (clavicle) and part of the shoulder blade (acromion) are torn. The tear loosens the joint connection between the collarbone and shoulder blade, causing them to separate or move apart from one other. A separated shoulder does not actually involve damage to the main ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder.
Other names for this condition are acromioclavicular joint separation or AC joint separation. These names reflect the medical references for the collarbone (clavicle), and the outer end of the scapula (acromion) that extends over the shoulder joint at its highest point.
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A separated shoulder can affect anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, physical health or level of fitness.
Most shoulder separations are caused by falling directly onto the shoulder with enough force to tear ligaments. Besides falls, car accidents and sports injuries are frequent causes.
After an examination, the doctor can make a determination of the seriousness of the shoulder separation using a scale such as the Rockwood classification of AC joint injuries. This scale ranges from type I (injury limited to an AC ligament sprain; joint still in place) to VI (severe ligament detachment and joint dislocation) injuries. The rating helps determine the appropriate medical response, including the need for surgery, and gives the patient an idea of how long treatment could last and what long-term effects might occur.
Most people will recover from a separated shoulder within two to 12 weeks without surgery. Non-surgical treatments include the following:
Surgery may be required in more serious cases (such as a type IV, V or VI injuries on the Rockwood scale) or after determining that non-surgical treatments are not the best option. More serious injuries are indicated when the fingers are numb or cold, arm muscles are weak, or deformity of the shoulder is severe. Surgical treatments include:
Although most people regain complete function of the injured shoulder, sometimes a bump or other deformity remains. There may also be continued pain, even in what appears to be a mild shoulder separation. This can be the result of bones rubbing against one another, arthritis, or damage to the cartilage which provides a cushion between bones of the shoulder joint.
While there is no sure way to prevent a separated shoulder, it is helpful to be aware of the factors that increase the chances of shoulder injuries. These factors can include:
The presence of any of the following symptoms after a shoulder injury requires medical attention:
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/03/2018.
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