Question - AC grade III

by Tamer
(Boston, MA, USA)

I just survived a motorcycle accident and I have a left shoulder AC grade III. It is tough to stomach the fact that you will always have a bone jutting out of your left shoulder and you will probably not restore full-capacity of the shoulder.

Out of curiosity, my doctor also said that surgery is not the way due to the associated complications but does this mean that the network of bones and ligaments in that shoulder area are non-essential to functionality, structure and protection? My doctor made it seem like it was a common accident and that most people return to full activity after 14 weeks.

I am just curious, is this some evolutionary adaptations are bodies made from previous forms and they become less and less important and functional (like the appendix)?

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Question - AC grade III

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Jun 22, 2008
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Evolution? Perhaps...
by: Bart - SII

Grade III AC separation is usually not treated surgically unless there is just a very strong desire to correct the cosmetic aspect of the shoulder. Surgery to repair the AC joint often leads to limitations in motion and more problems than just leaving it alone.

Recovery does take 3-4 months because the injured tissue has to heal and the shoulder has to calm down. But once time passes, you should have full range of motion and fairly good strength.

As far as the function of the shoulder, the AC joint has little to do with stability of the shoulder. It isn't necessary for it to be intact for the shoulder to function and remain stable. I don't know if I would go as far as comparing it to the appendix as far as usefulness, but perhaps.

So, if you can stomach the deformity of the shoulder, you should do fine with your recovery.

Thanks for the question!