Acromioclavicular AC Joint Sprain What is the AC

Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Sprain

What is the AC joint? § It’s a joint in the shoulder that consists of the lateral end of the clavicle and the acromion process. § A cartilage disk separates the two bones, and a thin capsule surrounds the joint. § The joint is a pretty weak joint.

General Information About AC Joint Injuries § Injuries to the AC joint are most often caused by contact sports, falling on an outstretched arm and doing too many overhead exercises. § There are many different kinds of AC joint injuries including sprains, tears, dislocations, and ruptures of ligaments. § Injuries to the AC joint result in loss of range of motion, inflammation, and loss of strength. § The severity of the injury determines the treatment required.

Treatment Options § In the case of a sprain one would remove the athlete from the sport if there is any question of his ability to play. If he can play, then a protective pad should be put on the injury to protect it from more damage. § Make the athlete wear a sling and make sure to ice the area. § Have the athlete take an NSAIDS to help with any pain and to reduce the amount of inflammation. § The day after the injury happens, one should practice their range of motion. § As soon as the pain dulls, start strengthening the joint again. § If after 2 -3 days the athlete still can’t work out, have the injury checked out by a surgeon.

Sources of Information § Arnheim’s Principles of Athletic Training written by William E. Prentice, 12 th Edition ( General Information) § http: //www. athleticadvisor. com/Injuries/UE/Sho ulder/a_-_c_sprain. htm (information) § http: //www. physsportsmed. com/issues/2001/11 _01/johnson. htm (information) § www. athleticadvisor. com/. . . /a-c_tear. htm (picture) § www. weissortho. com/. . . /shoulder/acsprain. html (picture)