also known as AC joint injury
AC is an abbreviation of acromioclavicular.
The acromioclavicular ligament attaches your scapula to your clavicle and is commonly injured in situations involving forceful falling onto the shoulder.
For example, in football tackles whereby the shoulder tip comes into contact with the ground. In severe cases of AC ligament tearing the tell-tale sign will be a visible step in the collar bone near the shoulder.
The initial phase of acromioclavicular injury may require a sling for the arm and then taping to assist comfortable movement whilst the AC joint is supported. The healing of the AC ligament may take up to 6 weeks during which time it is important to:
- Maintain good neck range of movement
- Maintain rotator cuff strength
- Assist in strong repair of the ligament with supervised stretches
After 6 weeks the AC ligament will be strong enough to take weight through the arms and in doing so the client can make a gradual return to more functional exercises such as push-ups.
Due to the differing severities of AC ligament injury it is necessary to have a Physio guide you through the stages of progression for this injury.
