A separated shoulder after a crash, and what the bump means
Advice from a shoulder specialist and a physical therapist on AC joint injuries
A separated shoulder is an injury to a small joint on top of the shoulder. It’s where your collarbone meets the shoulder blade, a spot doctors call the AC joint. A direct hit to the shoulder in a crash can cause it. The top of the shoulder may ache and show a bump. The bump alone can’t tell you how well your shoulder will work down the road. Many people regain working use of the shoulder without surgery. [1]
Learn the grade of your injury
Ask which ligaments were stretched or torn and whether the collarbone shifted out of place. Go over what the X rays showed, including whether a broken bone was ruled out. Let your doctor know if it hurts to lift, reach across your body or carry a bag. Find out how the grade of the injury and your daily tasks shape the treatment choice. [1]
Measure progress by what the shoulder can do
Early on, a sling may help with pain. Ask when to start gentle movement and when to add strength work. A therapist can help you regain control of the shoulder. They can also teach you to carry and lift without stirring up pain. Don’t judge your progress by whether the bump has gone away. If pain or trouble using the arm lingers despite a reasonable rehab plan, ask about surgery. [1]
New problems that need a call
Get urgent care if your hand turns cold or pale or you notice major new numbness or weakness. The same applies if the shoulder looks like it has newly popped out of joint. Call your team if pain gets worse or a skin problem over the collarbone keeps growing. Reach out too if you can’t get back to your daily activities. [1]
Ask about your shoulder
- What grade is my AC joint injury?
- When can I stop wearing the sling and start exercises?
- Which symptoms would make surgery worth talking about?
Track two everyday shoulder tasks
Choose two things you do with your shoulder each day. During therapy, note whether each one gets easier. [1]
Sources and further reading
General background from orthopedic shoulder care and physical therapy. A separated shoulder is a different injury from a ball and socket dislocation. Your injury grade and symptoms guide the treatment.
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