Understanding Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Dislocation: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment.

INTRODUCTION;

An acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common shoulder injury that occurs when the clavicle (collarbone) separates from the acromion (part of the shoulder blade). It’s especially prevalent among athletes, particularly in contact sports like rugby, hockey, and football, or after a fall directly on the shoulder.

What is the AC Joint?

The AC joint is where the clavicle meets the highest point of the shoulder blade (acromion). This joint is stabilised by:

• Acromioclavicular ligament

• Coracoclavicular ligament

When these ligaments are stretched or torn due to trauma, the joint becomes unstable—this is termed an AC joint dislocation or “shoulder separation.”

Causes of AC Joint Dislocation.

Common causes include:

• Fall on an outstretched arm or directly on the shoulder (e.g., cycling accident)

• Sports injuries involving direct impact

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Heavy lifting with poor shoulder control

  
  

Types of AC Joint Dislocation (Rockwood Classification)

1. Type I – Mild sprain, ligaments intact

2. Type II – Partial tear of the AC ligament

3. Type III – Complete tear of AC and CC ligaments, noticeable bump

4. Type IV–VI – Severe, uncommon, often requiring surgery

   
   

Symptoms

• Visible bump or deformity at the shoulder

• Intense pain during movement

• Swelling and bruising

• Limited shoulder motion

• Weakness or instability

  
  

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

• Clinical examination

• X-rays (sometimes with weights)

• MRI (for ligament or soft tissue evaluation)

  
  

Treatment Options

🟢 Conservative Management (Types I–III):

• Immobilisation: Using a sling for 1–2 weeks

• Ice therapy: Reduces inflammation and pain

• NSAIDs: For pain relief (under supervision)

  
  

Physiotherapy: The Cornerstone of Recovery.

✅ Phase 1 – Pain and Inflammation Control

• Ice packs

• Gentle pendulum exercises

• Isometric exercises

  
  

✅ Phase 2 – Mobility Restoration

• Passive and active range of motion (ROM)

• Scapular mobility drills

• Wall climbs, pulley exercises

  
  

✅ Phase 3 – Strengthening and Stability

• Theraband resistance for rotator cuff

• Shoulder blade stabilisation exercises

• Proprioception and neuromuscular control

  
  

✅ Phase 4 – Return to Activity

• Sport-specific drills

• Gradual return to overhead activity

• Plyometrics and functional training

  
  

At Physio360, we design a custom rehab program based on the severity of the injury, patient goals, and lifestyle.

Surgical Intervention (Types IV–VI):

• Indicated in athletes, chronic instability, or cosmetic concerns

• Procedures include hook plate fixation or ligament reconstruction

Recovery Timeline

• Type I–II: 2–4 weeks

• Type III: 6–8 weeks (non-surgical)

• Post-surgery: 3–6 months of rehab

Early physiotherapy intervention ensures quicker recovery and prevents complications like frozen shoulder or chronic pain.

Complications If Untreated.

• Chronic shoulder pain

• Weakness or limited range

• Arthritis of the AC joint

• Postural imbalance or scapular dyskinesia

  
  

Why Choose Physio360 for AC Joint Rehabilitation?

• Expert physiotherapists trained in sports and orthopaedic rehab

• Evidence-based manual therapy and taping techniques

• Focus on full return to sport and functional fitness

• Tech-enabled progress tracking and patient education

  
  

Final Thoughts

AC joint dislocation may seem like a minor injury, but ignoring it can result in long-term dysfunction. Whether you're an athlete, office worker, or weekend warrior, early assessment and physiotherapy are key to regaining pain-free movement and shoulder strength.

Need Help Recovering from a Shoulder Injury?

Visit Physio360 – Chennai’s trusted physiotherapy clinic for expert AC joint dislocation treatment. Book your consultation today and start your journey to pain-free mobility!

RESEARCH AND REFERENCE ARTICLE ;

1.Acromioclavicular joint dislocationshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4094120/

2.Acromioclavicular joint dislocations: incidence, injury profile, and patient characteristics from a prospective case series

Author links open overlay panelhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.jseint.2020.01.009.