Separated Shoulder

Causes of a separated shoulder 

A separated shoulder typically results from trauma, like falling directly onto your shoulder or receiving a hard blow to the upper arm. It’s especially common in contact sports (like football or wrestling) or cycling accidents. 

Risk factors for a separated shoulder 

People most commonly experience a separated shoulder when they: 

• Are playing contact sports (like football, hockey or rugby) 
• Have an accident when cycling, skateboarding or snowboarding 
• Have previous AC joint injuries 
• Fall or have severe collisions 

Symptoms of a separated shoulder 

You may have separated your shoulder if you have: 

• Pain at the top of your shoulder 
• Swelling, bruising or a visible bump above your shoulder 
• Limited shoulder movement, especially when lifting your arm 
• Weakness in your arm or shoulder 
• Popping or grinding sensation in the joint 

Diagnosing a separated shoulder 

Diagnosis begins with a physical exam to assess pain, swelling and joint stability. Your doctor may order X-rays to confirm the degree of separation and rule out fractures. In some cases, stress X-rays or MRI may be needed for more detail. 

Treatment of a separated shoulder 

Treatment depends on the severity (graded I–VI). Mild separations may heal with rest, ice, a sling and pain medication. More severe cases may require physical therapy or surgery to reconstruct damaged ligaments and restore shoulder function.