Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis

What is acromioclavicular joint arthritis?

Acromioclavicular joint arthritis (ACJ arthritis) is a degenerative condition that affects the acromioclavicular joint, where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder. The acromioclavicular joint helps to stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitates movement of the arm.

Who is affected by AC joint arthritis?

AC joint arthritis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in middle-aged and older adults. It is also more common in people who have had a previous injury to the shoulder, for example following a direct fall onto the shoulder tip. It is also seen in individuals undertaking overhead activity such as pull-ups, shoulder press exercises and weights training.

What are the main symptoms of AC joint arthritis?

The main symptoms of AC joint arthritis are pain and tenderness in the front and the top of the shoulder. The pain tends to be worse with activity, such as overhead lifting or reaching and with overhead gym exercises such as pull-ups, shoulder press and lat-pulldown exercises. Patients also describe discomfort when the straps of a rucksack or bra press down on the joint or when lying on the affected side at night. Other symptoms of AC joint arthritis may include:

Crepitus, which describes the popping/grating sound with movements of the shoulder

Stiffness and weakness in the shoulder

Swelling, redness and localised tenderness around the acromioclavicular joint

How is AC joint arthritis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of AC joint arthritis is usually made based on the patient’s medical history and physical examination. The doctor will examine the shoulder for localised swelling, tenderness, and pain with certain movements, for example when bringing the arm across the body. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans, will help the doctor to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of shoulder pain.

How is AC joint arthritis treated?

The treatment for AC joint arthritis depends on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical treatments are often effective for relieving pain and improving function. Non-surgical treatments may include:

Rest

Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain to allow inflammation to settle

Ice

Applying ice to the shoulder for 10-15 minutes at a time, can help to reduce inflammation and pain, particularly if the joint is aggravated following exercise

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen and Tylenol can help to relieve mild to moderate pain.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, to reduce stress across the painful ACJ.

Corticosteroid or PRP injections

Joint Injection can be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the AC joint.