Does a prominent bump in a type III AC separation require immediate surgery?

Doctor’s answer

Appearance alone is insufficient. Many type III injuries start with a sling and rehabilitation; randomized evidence has not shown better function with routine surgery. Persistent symptomatic instability or functional limitation warrants review. Threatened skin or neurovascular changes require urgent care.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.