Does a Grade 5 AC separation require surgery?

Does a Grade 5 AC separation require surgery?

This severity of injury is very uncomfortable for most patients and requires surgery to stabilize the joint in almost all cases. There is no effective non-operative treatment as the downward force of gravity ensures that there can be no possibility of reducing the joint back into position.

What is a Grade 5 AC joint separation?

Grade 5—Involves tearing of the joint covering (capsule) and ligaments connecting the shoulder blade (scapula) and collar bone (clavicle), and the end of the collar bone (clavicle) tears through the muscle covering (fascia) above it. Results in a large, permanent bump over the top of the shoulder at the AC joint.

What grade is my AC separation?

Grade I- mild shoulder separation. This involves a sprain of the AC ligament that does not move the collarbone and looks normal on X-rays. Grade II – a tear in the AC ligament, and/or a sprain or slight tear in the coracoclavicular (CC) ligament.

Does AC joint separation need surgery?

Do all AC separations require surgery? No. In fact the vast majority of AC separations do very well with conservative treatment of the symptoms. Most AC injuries are grade I, II, or III and these generally do not require surgery.

What does a separated AC joint feel like?

Most people with AC joint separation will experience pain at the top of the shoulder. This pain may be exacerbated when you move your arm overhead or sleep on the injured shoulder. You may also experience weakness or instability in the affected shoulder or arm as well as limited mobility.

How do I fix my AC separation?

Treatment is typically an arm sling, bed rest, ice and heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Most people recover full motion of the shoulder and arm within 6 to 8 weeks, often with the assistance of physiotherapy. Type III – Both acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments are torn.

What does an AC separation feel like?

Tenderness or soreness is felt at the junction, or joint, between the collarbone and shoulder. Tenderness is felt at the site of the AC (acromioclavicular) joint. If nerve damage occurs, numbness or muscle weakness may be present in the shoulder or affected arm. If this symptom occurs, seek immediate medical attention.