In plain language
Ligament injury destabilizing the joint between distal clavicle and acromion; severe cases involve coracoclavicular ligaments. It differs from glenohumeral dislocation.
Clinical Significance & Management
Assess vertical and horizontal instability, skin and scapular function. Lower grades and many type III injuries start nonsurgically. Severe displacement or persistent disability may warrant reconstruction tailored to activity.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Top-of-shoulder pain, swelling and prominence
Pain across the chest, with straps or pushing
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Direct fall onto the shoulder
- Contact trauma loading the AC and CC ligaments
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Examination and comparative radiographs showing displacement
Additional imaging when fracture or other injury is suspected
Treatment Options
Short-term sling, pain control and progressive motion
Consider surgery for severe or persistently symptomatic instability
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Protection
Reduce pain, keep elbow-wrist motion and avoid pressure
Recovery
Restore shoulder motion and cuff-scapular strength
Sport
Assess symptoms, strength, control and contact tolerance
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Better radiographic alignment does not guarantee better function. Type III decisions must also consider complications and rehabilitation.
Sources & References
Shoulder Separation
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
Surgical Versus Nonsurgical Treatment for Acute Rockwood Type 3 Acromioclavicular Injury: Randomized Trial (2023)
Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
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