what is an ac sprain

An AC (acromioclavicular) joint sprain is an injury that damages the ligaments in the AC joint, which is where the shoulder blade meets the collarbone. This type of injury is common in athletes and can result from a hard, direct hit to the shoulder, falling onto the shoulder, or falling and landing on an arm or hand that was outstretched to break the fall. Symptoms of an AC joint sprain can vary depending on how serious the injury is and may include shoulder pain, soreness, swelling, bruising, change in the shoulders shape, bulge above the shoulder, shoulder that appears to droop, collarbone that moves upward, and limited movement in the shoulder. Treatment for an AC joint sprain will depend on how serious the strain is and may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy, pain medication, and in severe cases, surgery. Rehabilitation is necessary to restore and rebuild motion, strength, and flexibility in the shoulder. Most people are able to return to near full function after this injury, even if there is a persistent, significant deformity.