Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Dislocation

 

 

Specialist Shoulder Assessment and Treatment in Rochdale

 

An acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common shoulder injury, often occurring after a fall or direct impact to the shoulder. It can cause pain, swelling and a visible bump at the top of the shoulder.

Mr Robin Seagger is a fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon in Rochdale, specialising in the assessment and treatment of AC joint injuries, including acute dislocations and ongoing symptoms following previous injury.

 

 

What is an AC joint dislocation?

 

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is the small joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the acromion.

 

An AC joint dislocation occurs when the ligaments stabilising this joint are stretched or torn, usually as a result of:

 

• A fall directly onto the shoulder

• A sporting injury (e.g. cycling, rugby, football)

• A road traffic accident

 

In more severe injuries, the collarbone becomes displaced, leading to a visible prominence at the top of the shoulder.

 

 

Types of AC joint dislocation

 

AC joint injuries are commonly classified by severity:

 

• Low-grade injuries – ligament sprain or partial tear

• Higher-grade injuries – complete ligament rupture with displacement of the collarbone

 

The grade of injury helps guide treatment decisions, but symptoms and functional limitation are just as important.

 

 

Common symptoms

 

Symptoms of an AC joint dislocation may include:

 

• Pain on the top of the shoulder

• Swelling and bruising shortly after injury

• A visible bump or deformity at the AC joint

• Pain when lifting the arm or reaching across the body

• Weakness or loss of shoulder function

 

Some people continue to experience discomfort or functional problems long after the initial injury has healed.

 

 

How is an AC joint dislocation diagnosed?

 

Diagnosis is based on:

 

• A detailed history of the injury

• Careful shoulder examination

• Imaging such as X-rays to assess alignment of the joint

• MRI or ultrasound in selected cases to assess associated soft tissue injury

 

It is important to assess the entire shoulder, as AC joint injuries can be associated with other shoulder problems.

 

 

Is surgery always needed?

 

No. Many AC joint dislocations are treated successfully without surgery.

 

Non-surgical treatment may include:

 

• Short-term sling use for comfort

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication

• Physiotherapy to restore movement and strength

• Gradual return to work and sport

 

Many patients recover well with this approach, particularly with lower-grade injuries.

 

 

When is surgery considered?

 

Surgery may be considered when:

 

• The injury is high-grade and significantly displaced

• Pain or functional limitation persists despite appropriate non-surgical treatment

• The deformity is symptomatic and affects daily activities or sport

• There are ongoing problems following a previous AC joint injury

 

Surgical treatment aims to restore stability of the joint and improve function. Techniques vary depending on the type and timing of the injury and will be discussed in detail during consultation.

 

 

Why see a specialist shoulder surgeon?

 

AC joint injuries can be complex, particularly when symptoms persist or surgery is being considered.

Mr Robin Seagger completed additional fellowship training specifically in shoulder surgery after qualifying as an orthopaedic surgeon.

 

His practice is focused almost entirely on shoulder conditions, allowing:

 

• Accurate assessment of injury severity

• Individualised treatment planning

• Appropriate selection of patients for surgery

• Use of modern surgical and rehabilitation techniques

 

This specialist focus helps ensure optimal outcomes.

 

 

Local specialist shoulder care in Rochdale

 

Mr Seagger treats patients from Rochdale, Bury, Oldham, Heywood and North Manchester, offering specialist shoulder care locally without the need to travel into central Manchester.

 

Consultations and surgery are provided at The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale, with access to imaging, physiotherapy and structured aftercare.

 

 

Arrange a consultation

 

If you have sustained an AC joint injury or continue to experience pain or dysfunction after a previous shoulder injury, a specialist assessment can help clarify the diagnosis and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.