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	Systemic
	Health
	Treatments
	Exercise
	For Physicians

Select an Article:

• Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
• Shoulder Instability
• Reoccurring Dislocations
• Posterior Dislocation
• Multidirectional Instability Signs and Symptoms
• Shoulder Tendonitis and Impingement
• Rotator Cuff Tears
• Acromioclavicular Separation (Separated Shoulder)
• Labral Tears

• Overview
• Treatments
• Goals
• Resources

Acromioclavicular Separation (Separated Shoulder)

An “AC Separation” is commonly the result of a fall on the end of the shoulder. It results in pain, swelling, and often deformity in which it appears that the collar bone is “sticking up.”

Treatment for a separated shoulder usually involves rest, ice, pain and anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to restore motion. Rarely is surgery indicated. However, sometimes the ligaments that attach the collar bone to the shoulder blade are repaired.

Possible Treatments

• Active Assistive Range of Motion 
• Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy 
• Electrotherapeutic Modalities
• Isometric Exercise 
• Proprioception Exercises 
• Physical Agents
• Shoulder Active Range of Motion 
• Shoulder Joint Mobilization 
• Shoulder Passive Range of Motion 
• Shoulder Resistive Range of Motion 
• Soft Tissue Mobilization 
• Stretching/Flexibility Exercise 

Possible Treatment Goals

• Improve Function
• Optimize Joint Alignment
• Improve Muscle Strength and Power
• Improve Proprioception
• Decrease Postoperative Complications
• Improve Range of Motion
• Self-care of Symptoms
• Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities

Additional Resources

• 3d Anatomy of the Shoulder
• AC Joint Problems/Shoulder Separation
• Shoulder Problems from Medline Plus

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The information in this medical library is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of occupational therapy, medical, or professional healthcare advice or services. The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without first consulting with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician or other healthcare provider. The owners of this website accept no responsibility for the misuse of information contained within this website.