How To Address Shoulder Separation

09 Aug How To Address Shoulder Separation

When you are faced with limited mobility in your shoulder caused by a shoulder separation, your ability to perform tasks and your mobility can quickly decline. Fortunately, our orthopedist in Brooklyn at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation is well-versed in addressing shoulder separations. Please continue reading below to learn more about how we treat this injury. 

What is a Shoulder Separation?

A shoulder separation is a painful injury to the top of the shoulder where the acromion attaches to the clavicle. These bones form the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. A shoulder separation, or AC joint injury, is defined as an injury to one or more of the ligaments holding the acromion and collarbone together, leading to misalignment. Shoulder separations can be caused by a traumatic injury or repetitive use of the shoulder. Athletes who participate in intense contact sports are also at risk for shoulder separation. Some of the symptoms of a shoulder separation may include:

• Shoulder weakness.
• Pain.
• Bruising or swelling.
• Limited mobility in the shoulder. 
• A bump on top of the shoulder. 

If you believe that you are experiencing a separated shoulder, our orthopedist in Brooklyn is here to help. 

Treatment

Treatment for AC joint separations will depend on the severity of the injury. When treating this injury initially, the primary goal is to reduce pain and swelling in the area through immobilization and icing the shoulder. Our orthopedist in Brooklyn may also recommend anti-inflammatory medications. Rest is fundamental during the early stages of this injury, and physical therapy may be recommended to restore range of motion. In cases where conservative treatments have failed, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can reposition or stabilize the injured bones and reconnect the ligaments. Once you’ve separated your shoulder, it goes without saying that you want to prevent it from happening again. Stretching and exercising the shoulder muscles can keep them healthy and strong. 

Contact Us

Patients dealing with a painful AC joint injury should not hesitate to seek the care they require. At Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation, our orthopedist in Brooklyn can help restore your shoulder health to get you back on track. To learn more about how we treat shoulder separation, be sure to contact us today!