Lake Tahoe Orthopaedic Institute

What are the signs and symptoms of an AC joint separation?

Grade I Injury: There may be tenderness at the joint when touched. There may be some bruising around joint. There is minor pain with arm movement. There is no pain in the area of the coracoclavicular ligaments.
Grade II Injury: There is moderate to severe pain at the joint. Swelling may be present. There is pain with arm movement. There may be a small bump on the top of the shoulder where the clavicle ends. The clavicle may move when pushed. The area of the coracoclavicular ligaments may be painful when touched.
Grade III Injury: Typically, the injured person immediately supports the elbow while holding the arm close to the side. This prevents the pain outward arm movement would cause. Pain is present with any arm motion. Pain is present around the joint and in the area of the coracoclavicular ligaments. Swelling is present. As the joint moves, a popping sound may occur. There is shoulder deformity and a bump on the top of the shoulder. The AC joint is very unstable.

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Zephyr Cove Office
212 Elks Point Rd., Suite 200 | Zephyr Cove, NV 89448
Phone: 775-588-3636 | MAP

Carson City Office
704 W. Nye Lane, Suite 204 | Carson City, NV 89703
Phone: 775-884-3131 | MAP

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1516 Virginia Ranch Road, Suite 101 | Gardnerville, NV 89410
Phone: 775-783-3228 | MAP

Incline Village Office
889 Alder Ave, Suite 303 | Incline Village, NV 89451
Phone: 775-831-7144 | MAP

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