Conditions
AC Joint Sprain
Category:
Diagnosis:
Description:
Predictors:
Shoulder
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Sprain
Pain/swelling over the AC joint; pain on cross‑body motion. Most improve with rest, ice, NSAIDs, short sling and progressive PT.
Focal AC tenderness; pain with cross‑body adduction test; swelling; pain with overhead or horizontal adduction.
Non-Operative
Therapy:
Light Activities:
Moderate Activities:
Short sling for comfort; early ROM as tolerated; scapular & rotator‑cuff strengthening; posture & activity modification.
2–6 weeks
4–8 weeks (by grade)
Surgery
Surgery Probability:
Low (higher with high‑grade separations)
Indications:
Recovery to Light Activities:
Recovery to Moderate Activities:
Sucess Rates:
Complication Rates:
Severe displacement; persistent pain/instability despite care; high‑demand overhead athletes.
Immobilization 2–4 weeks; begin gentle ROM
3–6 months for sport/work
~80–90%
4–8 weeks (by grade)
Predictors:
~80–90%
Stiffness 5–10%; recurrence 5–10%
Helpful Devices
Shoulder Sling
Cold Therapy Shoulder Wrap
Kinesiology Tape
Posture Brace
Resistance Bands Set