Acromioclavicular Joint (ACJ) Dislocation
After a fall onto the shoulder the strong ligaments which hold the acromioclavicular joint together can be ruptured.
Symptoms
Pain around the shoulder (centred over the ACJ) making all movements of the shoulder difficult.
Investigations
X rays (sometimes comparison X rays with the normal side are required).
Treatments
Non-Operative: The vast majority of acromioclavicular joint dislocations can be treated non-operatively with a sling and physiotherapy.
Operative: If there is a severe dislocation, surgery can be carried out to put the joint back into the correct position.
X-ray of a normal right acromioclavicular joint and abnormal left acromioclavicular joint.
Note the increased gap on the left side.
