Injury to the AC joint is relatively common and typically occurs during collision sports such as rugby following a fall on to the shoulder or a FOOSH (falls on outstretched hand).
Classification: (rockwood) AC joint injuries are graded I to VI depending on the degree of separation.
Grade I and II injuries are very common and are typically managed conservatively including resting the joint using a sling.
The management of grade III injuries is a matter of debate and often depends on individual circumstances.
Grade IV, V and VI are rare and require surgical intervention.