AC Joint Dislocation Treatment

Shoulder injury x ray

An acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation occurs when the collarbone (clavicle) is separated from the shoulder blade (scapula) at the AC joint. This injury often results from a fall, direct impact during sports, or other trauma. Treatment is essential for restoring shoulder function and alleviating pain.

 

Treatment for an AC joint dislocation aims to relieve pain, restore joint stability, and allow for a return to normal activities. Depending on the severity of the dislocation, treatment options may be non-surgical or surgical.

Procedure

Surgical options include:

  1. AC Joint Stabilization: This procedure involves reattaching the torn ligaments and stabilizing the joint using sutures or anchors.

  2. Distal Clavicle Resection: In cases where the joint remains painful after healing, a portion of the collarbone may be removed to relieve pressure on the AC joint.

Doctors operating a shoulder

Who Needs AC Joint Dislocation Treatment?

Individuals who may need AC joint dislocation treatment include athletes involved in contact sports, active individuals engaged in overhead activities, workers in manual labor, and anyone experiencing persistent shoulder pain or swelling after an injury. If you’ve sustained trauma to the shoulder, seeking professional evaluation is essential for appropriate diagnosis and management.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery time varies based on the severity of the dislocation and the treatment method:

  • Non-Surgical Recovery: Patients may expect to wear a sling for 1-3 weeks, with gradual progression to physical therapy focusing on restoring mobility and strength.

  • Surgical Recovery: After surgery, patients typically wear a sling for several weeks. Rehabilitation will start soon after to improve function, with full recovery taking several months.

About Dr. Saif Nabi Shah

I currently practice at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, where I’m the Director of the Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopaedics.

My expertise covers Partial and Total Knee Replacement Surgery, Hip Replacement Surgery, Revision Surgeries, as well as Spinal Decompression & Fixation. To date, I’ve performed over 1500 joint replacement surgeries and more than 5000 orthopaedic surgeries.

 

Google Reviews

Pramod YadavPramod Yadav
10:27 12 Sep 24
Dr. Saif is very kindness and having good knowledge.Thanks to Dr Saif and entire team for operating surgery my Right hand shoulder
Neeraj SinghNeeraj Singh
05:44 12 Sep 24
Experience is very much excellentDr Saif sir and his all team person work is very excellent
farhan azmifarhan azmi
10:09 06 Aug 24
ashrita lalashrita lal
11:09 01 Aug 24
Thank you so much Sir.
Shilpi guptaShilpi gupta
05:12 17 Jul 24
Dear Dr. SaifThanks for the great care after my Mother TKR surgery! Your expertise and support have made a huge difference in my Mother recovery. pain-free and regaining strength. Appreciate your guidance and would highly recommend you to others.
Faizan RizviFaizan Rizvi
05:48 01 Jun 24
Dr. Saif N Shah and his team was kind. He listened to my concerns, and I greatly appreciated him walking me through every step of my forearm surgery I received. I felt confident with his treatment plan and would highly recommend him to other patients.
Rameshwar SinghRameshwar Singh
10:28 31 May 24
Dr Saif N Shah with his team is best doctor for orthopedic surgery. I was very much worried about my daughter's surgery but Dr Saif explained in detail the surgery procedure in very polite manner . After surgery I am very satisfied. Thanks to Dr Saif and team to perform pre and Post surgery care. I also appreciate the works and care of nursing and patients support staff at medanta specially supporting staff Mrs Geeta. She is very caring. Thanks to Dr Saif and his team .
Ashish ShuklaAshish Shukla
10:39 18 May 24
Dr. Saif isn't just a great doctor, He's a great human being, consciously doesn't write unnecessary tests, even tells u not to visit unnecessarily. In this day and age coming across an individual like him is a blessing in itself, Add his medical expertise on top of it and u get a justification for why doctors are often compared with God.He handled my implant removal with utmost care and responsibility. I wish there were more doctors and in general more humans like Dr. Saif. Thank you sir !
Aradhna PrakashAradhna Prakash
06:17 02 Apr 24
Dr Saif is an excellent surgeon! The way he handles his cases is really impressive. He has a very clear line of thought. He very adeptly tackles the treatment process and understands not just the pain caused by injury but also by the surgery. Thank you Dr Saif and the whole team at Medanta Lucknow for taking such good care of me.
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Don’t let pain hold you back. 

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OPD Hours

Monday - Friday 9.00 - 17.00
Saturday 9.00 - 17.00

Experience

Years of Working 22+
Joint Replacement Surgeries 2000+
Othopedic Sugeries 6000+

FAQ

Yes, AC joint surgery generally has a high success rate. Most patients experience significant pain relief, improved shoulder stability, and a return to normal activities. However, outcomes can vary based on individual factors, the severity of the injury, and adherence to post-surgical rehabilitation.

Recovery time after AC joint surgery typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing. Initially, patients may need to wear a sling for a few weeks, followed by a structured physical therapy program to regain strength and mobility.

Running may be possible within a few weeks after surgery, but it depends on your recovery progress and the advice of your healthcare provider. It's important to follow your rehabilitation plan and only resume activities like running when you have been cleared by your surgeon.

 

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