AC Joint Injury | Treatment for Dislocated Collarbone

I Dislocated My Collarbone 16 Years Ago, Never Had It Fixed and Now I Have Shoulder Pain and Weakness. What are my Options?

Dr Millett,

I dislocated my collarbone when I fell onto it about 16 years ago. I put it in a sling, but it never popped back in. Just recently it is starting to give me some discomfort, and I have noticed that the right arm is much weaker than the left when holding my arms out in front of me for prolonged periods (during martial arts).

I have assumed over the years that it is too late to treat this simply as my body will have grown and developed to accommodate this. Is there any advice you can give as to a course of action, or is it simply something I will have to live with having left any treatment so long?

Regards,
Tim

Dear Tim,
Thank you very much for your kind email – I am however sorry to hear of your unfortunate shoulder injury. Most commonly a dislocated collar bone occurs when the AC joint is injured. This is also called a shoulder separation. An AC joint injury can be managed in several different ways depending on the severity. I have been reconstructing many of these arthroscopically, even in chronic cases, and you may be a candidate for this type of minimally-invasive surgery for your problem, especially since it sounds as if you are having a lot of disability with this injury. I usually fix type 5’s and some type 3’s in those who are chronically symptomatic (as are you) or in overhead athletes. However, as you can imagine, there can be many different factors to consider for shoulder injuries such as yours. Furthermore, as you might expect there can be several treatment options and risks with benefits with each type that I would be happy to discuss with you. You can go to the following websites for some additional online information:

shoulder1.com

drmillett.com

If you would like, I would be happy to review your x-rays and MRI, and afterwards, if possible, I could give you my opinion about what should be done surgically to either cure the problem or at least alleviate the symptoms. I can usually determine from the studies and a telephone conversation whether it would be worthwhile having you come for a visit/surgery. It would be best if I could evaluate you in person as this gives me the greatest chance of effectively diagnosing and treating your problem. You can call to schedule an appointment to see me.

Thank you again for your email – I look forward to helping you with this problem.

Regards,
Dr. Millett

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

I Dislocated My Collarbone 16 Years Ago. What are my Options?

I Dislocated My Collarbone 16 Years Ago, Never Had It Fixed and Now I Have Shoulder Pain and Weakness. What are my Options?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

Submit your review
Name:
Email:
Website:
Review Title:
Rating:	1 2 3 4 5
Review:

Check this box to confirm you are human.
Submit Cancel