Acromioclavicular Separation (AC Joint)

An “AC Separation” is commonly the result of a fall on the end of the shoulder. It results in pain, swelling, and often deformity in which it appears that the collar bone is “sticking up.”

How physical therapy helps

Treatment for a separated shoulder usually involves rest, ice, pain and anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to restore motion. Rarely is surgery indicated. However, sometimes the ligaments that attach the collar bone to the shoulder blade are repaired.