Am I Dealing with AC Joint Separation?
Do you find yourself troubled with shoulder bruising or swelling? Is your shoulder movement limited? If so, you may be dealing with acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation.
Because of the uncomfortable symptoms that arise from this condition, Dr. Bobby Bilitsis at Prestige Health and Wellness recommends seeking treatment early.
AC joint separation can feel like:
- Shoulder pain
- A bump on the shoulder
- Shoulder deformity
Keep reading to learn more about AC joint separation, symptoms, and nonsurgical treatment options in Manhattan.
What is AC Joint Separation?
AC joint separation is commonly seen in athletes and high-demand manual laborers. In fact, It’s been estimated that nearly half of AC joint separation injuries occur through contact sports, such as football, boxing, etc.
This common shoulder injury occurs when there is a tearing to the ligaments of the acromioclavicular joint, hence where “AC” comes from. The AC. joint connects the shoulder to the collarbone. Based on current research, AC joint injuries account for about 12% of shoulder girdle injuries.
Symptoms of AC Joint Separation
AC joint separation can sometimes be missed during diagnosis, but people may still present a series of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of AC joint separation include:
- Pain that worsens when moving the shoulder
- A bump on the top of the shoulder at the end of the collarbone
- Bruising or swelling on the shoulder
- Difficulty lifting an arm or reaching across the body
- A drooping shoulder blade
AC Joint Separation: Risk Factors and Common Causes
There are a few common causes of AC joint separation, as well as risk factors that can raise the probability of developing this injury. These include:
- Blunt injury to the shoulder
- Falling on an outstretched hand, elbow, or shoulder
- Lifting certain heavy objects
AC Joint Separation Treatments in Manhattan
Over time and without intervention, AC joint separation can lead to limited movement and significant pain. Both of which can affect how you show up for work and complete daily personal tasks. Fortunately, there are nonsurgical treatments available to alleviate AC joint separation symptoms in Manhattan. These treatments include:
Physical Therapy for AC Joint Separation
Physiotherapy can help manage an AC joint separation injury by reducing pain and swelling, increasing shoulder mobility, and also building the strength and stability of the affected area. Physical therapy for shoulder injuries will start with a thorough assessment of your circumstance and then lead to the functional training needed for relief.
Occupational Therapy in Manhattan
Occupational therapy for AC joint separation can help to restore the range of motion for the shoulder. Also, athletes can get continuous guidance on form and proper sport-specific exercises and training techniques before participating in their sport. If you’re an athlete, this treatment could help you avoid worsening or developing this injury again.
Acupuncture for AC Joint Separation Symptoms
Acupuncture can provide much-needed pain relief for AC joint separation. An acupuncturist will try different techniques to increase blood flow and relax the muscles. In addition, it can be combined with physical therapy and other treatments for extra benefits.
Chiropractic Care in NYC
AC adjustments and other alignment methods can be highly beneficial in relieving the stress and discomfort from an AC joint separation. Our personalized chiropractic treatment will not only aim to treat the problem but also improve your overall functional wellness.
Massage Therapy for Symptom Relief
Massage therapy can help an AC joint separation problem in many ways. This may include reducing shoulder stiffness to alleviate pain, remedying inflammation, and more.
Treat AC Joint Separation Symptoms in Manhattan
Nonsurgical treatment options are often enough to address symptoms associated with AC joint separation. However, if you delay or forego treatment altogether, it’s possible that you’ll need surgery later. Therefore, reach out to the team at Prestige Health and Wellness right away so we can help you restore motion, strength, and flexibility.
Book an appointment for AC joint separation treatment in Manhattan today. If you have any questions about our treatment options, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 212-393-4673.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our locations in Manhattan NYC: