In brief Injuries to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint commonly occur among athletes. Dislocations are usually visually apparent, but sprains require a directed physical exam to determine the extent of damage to the AC joint. To rule out fractures, radiographs should be part of the diagnostic work-up. A review of the literature examines the controversy over surgical and nonsurgical methods to treat AC dislocations. Treatment, even for some of the more severe injuries, is conservative and includes ice, immobilization, and, occasionally, attempts at closed reduction.