An acromioclavicular joint injury, otherwise known as a shoulder separation, is a traumatic injury to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint with disruption of the acromioclavicular ligaments and/or …

The most common cause of a separation of the AC joint is a fall directly onto the shoulder. The fall injures the ligaments that surround and stabilize the AC joint.

Jan 2, 2024 · An injury to your acromioclavicular joint occurs when the ligaments between your clavicle and acromion tear or stretch too much. The tear loosens the joint connection between …

The AC joint connects your collarbone and shoulder blade. Learn more about the treatment options and recovery time for a separated shoulder.

Apr 28, 2025 · An AC joint separation, or AC joint sprain, is an injury to the ligaments which hold the acromioclavicular joint together at the top of the shoulder. Here we explain the symptoms, …

What is an AC joint separation? An AC joint separation, often called a shoulder separation, is a dislocation of the clavicle from the acromion. This injury is usually caused by a blow to the …

Mar 27, 2023 · Read on to learn more about AC joint separation, including symptoms, how it’s managed, and treatment options.

A complete AC joint tear or rupture of both main ligaments defines a grade 3 AC joint sprain or shoulder separation. With severe pain, tenderness, and swelling of the shoulder, moving the …

Sep 15, 2025 · AC joint injuries are sometimes referred to as AC sprains or a "separated" shoulder. The evaluation and management of AC injuries are reviewed here.

Aug 21, 2025 · An acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation is when the collarbone and shoulder blade separate at the top of the shoulder. It often happens after a fall or hit to the shoulder and …