Separated Shoulder

Separated Shoulder
A separated shoulder is a dislocation of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. The MOI is a fall onto the point of the shoulder—the acromion process of the scapula—tearing ligaments and causing the clavicle to ride up and over the acromion; fractures of the acromion and clavicle are possible, but rare. It is a common mountain bike and snow board injury. 

Separated Shoulder S/Sx

• Local pain, tenderness, & swelling, ± crepitus, deformity (step-off or bump where the clavicle overrides the acromion).

Separated Shoulder Treatment

• Buddy splint and begin a non-urgent, level 3 evacuation.
• Pain & anti-inflammatory drugs & herbs.

Interested in anticipating and prevention potential problems in the outdoors? What to be able to take  care of your family or friends should something unexpected happen? Take one of our wilderness medicine courses. Guides and expedition leaders should consider taking our Wilderness First Responder course.

Looking for a reliable field reference? Consider consider purchasing one of our print or digital handbooks; our digital handbook apps are available in English, Spanish, and Japanese. Updates are free for life. A digital SOAP note app is also available.