Shoulder Conditions

AC Joint Separation & Ligament Tears

The Acromioclavicular (AC) joint connects the collar bone (clavicle) to the shoulder blade (acromion). Injuries to the AC joint, commonly known as shoulder separations, are usually caused by a direct fall onto the shoulder. This trauma can tear the supporting AC and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments, leading to the collar bone visibly popping upwards.

AC Joint Injury Management

Grading & Assessment

Sprain to Separation

AC joint separations range from Grade I (minor sprain) to Grade VI (severe displacement). Minor grades are managed conservatively with slings, ice, and focused physical therapy.

Acute Surgical Fixation

Within 2 Weeks of Injury

For acute, high-grade separations (Grade III to V), early surgical reduction and fixation using specialized button implants (like TightRope) align the clavicle and allow ligaments to heal.

Biological Reconstruction

Chronic Separation Care

In chronic cases, where the ligaments have failed to heal, we perform a biological reconstruction of the AC and CC ligaments using a strong tendon autograft to restore shoulder stability.

AC Joint Separation Treatment

Restore Your Shoulder Profile

Book a consultation with Dr. Yugal Varandani to examine your AC joint injury using weight-bearing X-rays and plan your recovery path.