AC Joint Injury

AC Joint Injury Overview

Shoulder injuries of the AC joint, or acromioclavicular joint, are quite common. An AC joint injury can result from a hard fall, accident, or from a traumatic event. An acromioclavicular joint injury can result in a severe AC sprain, AC fracture or an AC joint separation, which occurs when the collarbone (clavicle) separates from the shoulder blade (acromion). An AC joint injury is measured in varying grades. For example, a Grade I injury will bring mild shoulder pain because the AC ligaments are simply stretched. A higher grade injury can include a partial shoulder ligament tear, a full shoulder ligament tear, or a shoulder separation. Dr. Peter Millett, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving patients in Vail, Aspen and the surrounding Denver, Colorado communities, has extensive experience in successfully treating acromioclavicular joint pain and AC joint injuries.

What are the Symptoms of an AC Joint Injury?

Symptoms of an injured AC joint will range from mild tenderness to intense, sharp shoulder pain that is typically caused by a complete shoulder separation. In a higher grade shoulder injury, a popping sensation will often be heard and prominent shoulder bruising will take place on the skin.

Each varying grade of acromioclavicular joint injury can requires a different treatment option. The first step to determining the exact injury grade is a proper diagnosis and examination by Dr. Millett. After diagnosis, he can offer his expert advice for the proper treatment of your injury.

(Click to Enlarge Image) The top image shows an acute left acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation as evidenced by superior displacement of the distal clavicle (yellow arrow). The bottom image shows the same patient after AC reconstruction using tendon graft.

(Click to Enlarge Image) The top left image demonstrates an acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation as evidenced by superior migration of the distal clavicle. The top right image shows the same patient after AC reconstruction using tendon graft and cortical fixation buttons. The bottom image is an arthroscopic view of a cortical fixation button on the undersurface of the coracoid process.

Have you sustained an AC joint injury?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review.

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

What are the Treatment Options for an AC Joint Injury?

Treatment for a lower grade acromioclavicular joint injury will usually consist of plenty of rest along with the use of pain medications and a shoulder sling. More advanced AC joint injuries can cause, shoulder instability, and frequent shoulder separations or painful shoulder dislocations. Advanced AC joint injuries can cause lost time at work, decreased activities and if left untreated, can lead to early arthritis or permanent damage to the shoulder joint. In these individuals, more care is needed and surgery may be required. There are numerous shoulder surgery techniques to treat the AC joint offered by Dr. Millett’s office:

Arthroscopic Surgery

The arthroscopic AC repair procedure is a minimally-invasive surgery performed using special equipment and small incisions. The goal is to secure the injured AC joint back into the proper position. This specialized surgery can be performed on an outpatient-basis and full range of motion is quickly re-established within days of the procedure.

Arthroscopic Stabilization Surgery for Shoulder Separations

Arthroscopic stabilization for shoulder dislocations is considered when the episodes of instability are occurring frequently, prohibits the individual from performing overhead activities or partake in sports and interferes with normal daily routines. Once all other therapies have been exhausted, arthroscopic stabilization surgery is often the next step. Arthroscopic stabilization surgery is a partnership between the doctor and patient. The results of the surgery are most effective when a post-operative rehabilitation program involving physical therapy and shoulder exercises are implemented.

For more resources on an AC joint injury, or to learn more about treatment options for acromioclavicular joint pain, please contact orthopedic shoulder specialist Dr. Peter Millett, serving patients in Vail, Aspen and the surrounding Denver, Colorado communities.

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!!!