What is a Grade 2 acromioclavicular joint separation?
Grade II – A partial dislocation of the joint in which there may be some displacement that may not be obvious during a physical examination. The acromioclavicular ligament is completely torn, while the coracoclavicular ligaments remain intact.
How are AC separations graded?
Like many orthopedic conditions, AC joint separations can range from mild to very severe. Treatment is often based on grading based on a standard x-ray. The original grading system had three grades; non-displaced sprain (type 1), partially dislocated joint (type 2) and completely dislocated (type 3).
Does Grade 3 AC separation require surgery?
Most people do well without surgery. The severe injury (Grade 3) can be treated either nonoperatively or operatively. Non-operative treatment involves immobilisation in a sling for two to three weeks followed by a course of physiotherapy.
What is a Grade 4 AC separation?
A grade 4 AC separation occurs when the clavicle is severely displaced posteriorly. It is defined as “significant” posterior displacement. The grade separation definition does not have any quantifiable distance as it is determined simply by the impression of the clinician.
What is a Grade 1 shoulder separation?
Grade 1—Involves stretching/spraining of the joint covering (capsule), with no damage to ligaments connecting the shoulder blade (scapula) and collar bone (clavicle). There may be swelling over the joint but the bump is not permanent. Pain typically lasts for 2-4 weeks, but can be easily reaggravated.
What is a Type 5 AC separation?
A grade 5 AC Joint Separation occurs when the clavicle is severely displaced superiorly. It represents the most severe type of AC joint injury.
What percentage is a Grade 5 AC separation?
It represents the most severe type of AC joint injury. This grade separation between the clavicle and the coracoid part of the scapula has to more than 100% (more than double) the normal side in order to fit the x-ray definition of a type 5 joint separation.
How long does a Grade 1 separated shoulder take to heal?
Athletes who use overhand motions (eg, those who play tennis and serve volleyball, baseball pitchers, American football quarterbacks) may require two to three weeks to return to full activity. Complete healing may take four to six weeks. Type I injuries generally heal well without an increased risk of reinjury.
How painful is a Grade 3 AC separation?
Although it appears the bump is from displacement of the end of the clavicle; its actually caused by the shoulder blade and arm drooping relative to the intact clavicle. Nevertheless it is painful and any movements of the shoulder result in significant pain.
What is a Level 3 shoulder separation?
A shoulder separation is the partial or complete separation of two parts of the shoulder: the collarbone (clavicle) and the end (acromion) of the shoulder blade (scapula). A type III shoulder separation occurs when both the acromioclavicular (AC) and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments are completely torn.
Does Grade 4 AC separation require surgery?
Causes a mild to moderate permanent bump over the top of the shoulder at the AC joint. Pain typically lasts 4-8 weeks. Surgery is usually not required. Grade 4—Defined as a significant posterior displacement, occuring when the clavicle is severely displaced backwards.
How do you treat a Grade 2 AC joint separation?
Treatment of Shoulder Joint Separation Treatment for Grade 1 or Grade 2 shoulder joint separation usually consists of rest, ice, a sling, and pain medication until the ligaments heal (usually within a few weeks).