Synergy Health Partners

Shoulder Separation

Shoulder separation, also known as acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation, is an injury to the ligaments that connect the collarbone (clavicle) to the shoulder blade (scapula). This injury occurs when these ligaments are stretched or torn, causing the clavicle to separate from the scapula. Unlike shoulder dislocation, which involves the ball-and-socket joint, shoulder separation affects the AC joint at the top of the shoulder.