Shoulder Separation

Shoulder separation symptoms include shoulder pain, difficulty moving your arm, bruising and swelling. You may also notice a popping sound at the time of the injury.

At Goshen Orthopedics, our team of board certified, fellowship trained providers are experts in treating a wide range of sports injuries. We understand that your activities are important to you, and we work together to get you back on track as soon as possible. Call (574) 534-2548 to make an appointment near you.

Shoulder separation vs. dislocation

What’s the difference between shoulder separation and shoulder dislocation? Shoulder separation is an injury to one of the ligaments that connects the collarbone and the top of the shoulder blade. Shoulder dislocation is when the arm bone pops out of the shoulder joint.

The cause of shoulder separation is usually direct impact on the shoulder by a blow, fall or outstretched hand. These injuries are more common in contact sports and activities with a risk of falling.

Personalized treatment to heal your separated shoulder

Our providers will create a treatment plan based on the severity of your injury. If your separated shoulder is mild, we may recommend wearing a sling, icing your shoulder, taking anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and getting physical therapy. Most mild shoulder separations heal within two to 12 weeks.

Severe shoulder separation may need surgery to repair the ligaments and stabilize the joint. Our Orthopedics surgeons will perform the procedure at Goshen Hospital or Goshen Surgery Center. You will wear a sling and may need physical therapy as you recover. The Goshen Rehabilitation and Orthopedics & Sports Medicine staff coordinate your appointments to make the process as convenient as possible.