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Expert Care for Acromioclavicular Joint Separation—Get Relief & Get Moving Again
If a Acromioclavicular Joint Separation (AC Dislocation) is limiting your life, our specialists at Elite Ortho are here to help you recover faster with personalized treatment and compassionate care.
Orthopedic Service
Acromioclavicular Joint Separation (AC Dislocation)
The acromioclavicular joint (AC) is at the top of the shoulder and is the connection of the shoulder blade (scapula) at the acromion and the collar bone (clavicle). This joint allows for some small motion to assist in arm motion.
Injuries to the AC joint occur in two ways-a direct blow while the arm is away from the body such as in a fall or tackle or from a fall on an outstretched arm. This can result in a sprain or tear of the ligaments in this location.
What Causes a Acromioclavicular Joint Separation?
Those with an AC joint separation will notice a bump at the tip of the shoulder and pain at this site with arm motion especially across the body. X-rays will show a separation of the bones at this location.
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Don’t Wait—Get Relief from Shoulder Pain Today
Our orthopedic experts at Elite Ortho are here to help you regain comfort, strength, and confidence in your body. Whether you need a personalized recovery plan or advanced surgical care, we’ll guide you every step of the way—with compassion and skill.
Evaluation & Treatment
How We Diagnose Acromioclavicular Joint Separation
Evaluation of the AC joint begins with a history of the injury, physical examination and X-rays to evaluate the extent and any associated injuries. MRI or CT scans are not routinely needed.
AC joint injuries are classified based on degree of separation and direction.
Nonsurgical
Treatment is dependent on activity level and grade of separation. A majority of sprains and separations can be treated with activity modification, sling, rest, and ice. Large separations, those who perform overhead or repetitive activities, or have continued pain despite treatment with small sprains may be best treated surgically.
Surgical
Surgery is done as an outpatient and is done to realign the joint. In the acute setting this can be done with suture, while in the chronic setting this requires biologic augmentation.
Recovery time typically ranges from one to eight weeks, depending on the severity of the injury and whether surgical intervention is required.
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Why Choose Elite Ortho?
Board-Certified Surgeons
Nationally recognized, specialty-trained experts in orthopedic care.
20+ Years of Experience
Every doctor brings over a decade of hands-on success.
700+ Verified 5-Star Reviews
Real stories from real patients across Maryland.
Advanced Orthopedic Technology
From nano arthroscopy to internal brace repair—we use the best tools available.
Full-Spectrum Orthopedic Services
Surgical and non-surgical treatment for bones, joints, injuries, and pain.
Ethical, Compassionate Care
We treat every patient like family, with honesty and empathy.
Our Specialists
Meet Our Orthopedic Specialists
Our practice is home to a team of expertly trained surgical and sports medicine specialists who are dedicated to providing high quality evidence-based medical care in a private practice setting with a personal touch. Our doctors have trained at some of the most prestigious academic medical centers in the nation.
We treat all musculoskeletal conditions including, but not limited to, injuries related to sports, accidents, or work, injuries involving shoulders, hands, wrists, elbows, knees, hips, ankles, concussion as well as arthritis, and back problems.
Dr. Andrew Siekanowicz
Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
Dr. Ashok L. Gowda
Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and
Chief Medical Officer
Yavonne Johnson, PA-C
Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Dr. Evan Argintar
Chief of cartilage restoration, joint preservation, and minimally invasive arthroplasty
Real Patients. Real Results.
5-star reviews
Carrie K.
Dr. Argintar is quick and efficient and attentive at the same time. I was brought in before my insurance paperwork was even done! He had clearly read (or had been briefed on) my file and I think I was in and out of there in less than 20 mins from the time I walked in the door. Highly recommend.
Hannah C.
Dr. Argintar, his assistant and the receptionists were incredibly friendly and on-time. I felt heard and listened to, and would highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a professional and personable doctor and team.
Adam A.
Dr. Argintar was quick and to the point. He was able to identify the injury and recommend what I need to do to begin the healing process. He listened to what I had to say and was able to get me out in a timely manner.
Natalie P.
Dr Argintar was very knowledgeable and helped me understand a bit more of what was causing pain. He was open to listening to me and gave great suggestions on what I should be doing to minimize pain. Will definitely see him again for my follow up.
Pamela W.
I was most impressed by Dr Argintar’s understanding and enthusiastic support of my goal of returning to active participation in my sport, though I am an over-50 athlete. Dr Argintar was prompt, direct and took the time to explain my injury and route to recovery. As his patient, I felt respected and informed.
Sean G.
Dr. Argintar was very personable, explained what was going in with my injury, talked me through treatment options, and proposed a treatment plan that worked with my schedule. Great, quick visit.