Articles » Injuries » Injuries of the upper limbs » Acromio Clavicular (AC) Joint Sprain

Acromio Clavicular (AC) Joint Sprain

What it Effects

• The ligaments keeping the joint stable
• There are four:
  • Acromioclavicular
  • Coracoacromial
  • Conoid
  • Trapezoid ligament

Mechanism of Injury

• Commonly due to a fall onto the tip of the shoulder as this can force the scapula (shoulder blade) down and stretch the ligaments, therefore straining them

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Depending on degree of injury the clavicle (collar bone) maybe sticking up
• Position of ease when arm is cradled
• Pain on movement + +

Treatment

• Seek medical advice
• PRICE
• Sling for arm
• Keep full range of movement in all joints of the arm
• Exercise
• Avoid heavy lifting

Additional Information

• There are three grades of strain that can be sustained. See soft tissue injury article

Exercise Videos

- Range of movement

• Wrist Extension
• Wrist Flexion
• Radial Deviation
• Ulnar Deviation
• Elbow Flexion & Extension
• Pronation
• Supination

If you have any questions, please use the comment form below or post a thread on the forums.