Dislocated Shoulder | AC Joint Injury | Shoulder Instability

I Dislocated my Shoulder and have Ongoing Shoulder Instability. Why?

Dr. Millett,

I fell and hurt my shoulder skiing a couple of years ago (in Vail of all places!) and since then it has caused me problems. I have a bump on the top of the shoulder and was told I have a shoulder separation. What does this mean?

It sounds like you may be suffering from an injury to the acromioclavicular joint (AC joint). This is also known as a separated shoulder. A fall directly onto the shoulder which causes a large, prominent deformity (bump) and pain are typical findings in a separation of the AC joint. This type of fall usually causes injury to the ligaments that surround and stabilize the AC Joint.

There are different degrees of injury (types 1 through 6) depending on which ligaments are torn and to what extent. Types 3-6 usually result in some deformity of the shoulder. For types 4 through 6, surgery is recommended. For type 3, AC joint surgery is sometimes recommended. These injuries range in pain, severity, and physical deformity. The greater the deformity, the greater the severity, and thus the pain and the amount of time it may take to return to pain-free function of the shoulder.

Type 1 and 2 injuries usually respond better and more quickly to conservative, non-surgical treatments that include: rest, cold compression, injections, and oral anti-inflammatory medicines.

Type 3 injuries may require surgery to repair or rebuild the damaged ligaments which hold the clavicle in place. This surgery is performed via arthroscopic or open surgery. In acute cases, the clavicle can be held in position with sutures while the ligaments heal, while in most cases, the torn ligaments need to be completely rebuilt with new tissues (either from one’s own body – autograft – or from a cadaver – allograft). This is a common repair and often yields really good results. I prefer to perform this arthroscopically as it leads to smaller scars and less disruption of the surrounding muscles. When one suffers this type of injury, typically x-rays and/or an MRI are needed so your doctor can determine the severity of your injury and make a decision on how to best treat your AC injury.

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!!!

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I Dislocated my Shoulder and have Ongoing Shoulder Instability. Why?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD