AC Joint Pathology Flashcards
What are the common mechanisms of injury for acromioclavicular joint pathologies?
Which populations are more likely to have an AC joint pathology?
MVA, falls from a bicycle, skiing, falling onto the shoulder in an adducted position or contact sports
Men are 5x more likely than women and higher incidence in 2-30 year old age group
What movement patterns are common during the clinical exam for AC joint patients?
- AC painful Arc occurs in terminal abduction more so than flexion (often between 170-80 deg.)
- AC joint pain also present w. horizontal adduction of the shoulder
How are strength and sensation affected by AC joint injuries?
Strength is generally diminished due to pain and stress on the AC joint region
Sensation is normally intact but can be disrupted due to a type 6 AC joint injury (which is very rare)
What is the test-item cluster for AC joint injuries?
- Cross-over (cross body) Test
- Resisted Extension (Horiz. Abduction) Test
- Obrien’s Test (resist flexion of shoulder when in a 90/90 position)
What are the general management strategies for type 1 and type 2 AC injuries?
- non-surgical
- relative rest, ice, pain control modalities
- short-term sling immobilization til resting pain is minimal
- gentle ROM and muscle activation activities
- As pain improves, progress ROM/strength to allow return to prior activities
What are the general management strategies for type 3 AC injuries?
- surgery vs. no surgery is controversial
- no surgery is possible but surgery is usually recommended to repair ligaments
- longer immobilization following surgery
- rehab similar to type 1/2
What are the general management strategies for type 4-6 AC injuries?
- surgery recommended
- rehab following surgery includes immobilization up to 6 weeks, pain relieving interventions, gradually regain ROM and strength, and expected return to function within about 6 months
