The evaluation and treatment of the injured acromioclavicular joint in athletes.

Injuries to the acromioclavicular joint are among the most commonly occurring problems in the athletic patient population. However, these injuries are often confused with other problems associated with the shoulder complex. This confusion was noted by Hippocrates (460-377 BC), who realized that acromioclavicular dislocation often was misdiagnosed as a glenohumeral injury. Galen (129-199 AD) experienced an acromioclavicular dislocation and could not tolerate the tight bandaging recommended at the time and thus became one of the earliest noncompliant patients. The understanding of acromioclavicular injuries and their management has evolved rapidly during the last 2 decades. This review will clarify the current concepts in the management and treatment of acromioclavicular injuries in the athlete.