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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.
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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, 12th Edition ( General Information) • http://www.athleticadvisor.com/Injuries/UE/Shoulder/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)