S43.101

Clinical Causes: Falls directly onto the shoulder, especially onto the point of the shoulder Trauma from sporting activities such as football, hockey, or rugby Motor vehicle accidents involving direct impact to the shoulder Falls onto an outstretched hand with shoulder impact Contact sports or physical altercations causing a blow to the shoulder

Key Symptoms: Pain at the top of the shoulder which may worsen with movement Swelling or bruising around the joint Visible deformity or bump at the shoulder site Limited range of motion in the affected shoulder Weakness or instability when lifting or moving the arm Tenderness upon touch around the AC joint

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing an AC joint dislocation typically involves a physical examination where a healthcare professional assesses shoulder stability, tenderness, and deformity. Imaging studies such as X-rays are essential to confirm the dislocation, determine its severity, and rule out associated fractures or injuries. Sometimes, additional imaging like MRI may be used to evaluate soft tissue damage, such as ligament tears. The classification of the dislocation may range from minor sprains to complete dislocation, but in this case, the specific subtype remains unspecified.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches depend on the severity of the dislocation. For less severe injuries, conservative management is often effective and includes rest, ice application, and the use of pain relievers. Immobilization with a shoulder sling can help reduce movement and facilitate healing. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength, stability, and range of motion following initial recovery. In cases of severe dislocation or persistent instability, surgical intervention might be necessary to realign and stabilize the joint through procedures like ligament repair or reconstruction. Proper medical evaluation ensures that the chosen treatment aligns with the specific injury severity and individual needs.