What is the recommended treatment for an acromioclavicular joint dislocation?

The recommended treatment for an acromioclavicular joint dislocation typically involves sling immobilization. This conservative approach is primarily focused on symptom management and supporting the shoulder to allow the injured ligaments time to heal. Sling immobilization helps reduce movement and allows for inflammation to subside, which can alleviate pain and facilitate recovery.

In many cases, especially with mild to moderate dislocations, non-surgical management such as rest, ice application, and physical therapy is effective. Physical therapy may be introduced later in the recovery process to restore function and strength after the initial healing has occurred.

Immediate surgery is usually reserved for more severe cases, particularly involving significant dislocations or those that are unstable and result in joint deformity. Injections of corticosteroids may help with inflammation and pain in chronic conditions but are not a primary treatment for an acute acromioclavicular injury.