Doctor evaluating patient symptoms for Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis diagnosis at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics
Condition/Condition Details

Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis

AC joint arthritis is degeneration of the joint between the collarbone and shoulder blade, causing pain at the top of the shoulder.

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About Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis is degeneration of the joint between the clavicle (collarbone) and the acromion (part of the shoulder blade). This small joint at the top of the shoulder can become arthritic from wear and tear, previous injury, or repetitive overhead activities. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our shoulder specialists understand that AC joint arthritis can cause significant pain, especially with overhead activities or when reaching across the body. We use comprehensive evaluation including physical examination and advanced imaging to identify the condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

AC joint arthritis is common, especially in individuals who have had previous AC joint injuries (separations) or who perform repetitive overhead activities. The degeneration causes pain, stiffness, and sometimes visible swelling or bone spurs at the top of the shoulder.

What Are the Symptoms of Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis?

Patients with AC joint arthritis typically experience pain at the top of the shoulder that may radiate into the neck, pain with overhead activities or reaching across the body, and tenderness directly over the AC joint. Many patients notice the pain is worse when sleeping on the affected side or when performing activities that stress the joint. Some individuals experience clicking or grinding sensations.
Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis
AC joint arthritis is degeneration of the joint between the collarbone and shoulder blade, causing pain at the top of the shoulder.

Are There Specific Risk Factors for Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis?

Risk factors include previous AC joint injury or separation, repetitive overhead activities (sports or occupations), advancing age, and wear and tear over time.

Diagnosing Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis?

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive physical examination including specific tests that stress the AC joint. X-rays can reveal joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or previous injury. MRI may be used to evaluate surrounding soft tissues. We offer complimentary MRI reviews when needed. Diagnostic injections into the AC joint can confirm the source of pain.

Treatment for Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis?

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Initial treatment includes rest from aggravating activities, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Corticosteroid injections directly into the AC joint can provide significant pain relief.

Surgical Treatment

When conservative treatment fails, our surgeons perform arthroscopic AC joint resection (Mumford procedure) to remove a small portion of the collarbone, eliminating the painful joint contact. This minimally invasive procedure is highly effective for relieving AC joint arthritis pain.

Does Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis Cause Pain?

AC joint arthritis pain typically worsens with overhead activities and can become constant over time. The pain often disrupts sleep, especially when lying on the affected side. The location of pain at the top of the shoulder is characteristic and helps distinguish it from other shoulder conditions.

What Can Patients Do to Prevent It?

Preventing AC joint arthritis involves protecting the joint and addressing injuries early:

  • Seek prompt treatment for AC joint injuries to prevent arthritis
  • Avoid repetitive overhead activities without proper rest
  • Use proper lifting techniques and body mechanics
  • Strengthen shoulder and scapular stabilizer muscles
  • Address early symptoms promptly with rest and evaluation
  • Maintain shoulder flexibility through regular exercise

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you're experiencing pain at the top of your shoulder, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Same-day and next-day appointments are available. Take advantage of our complimentary MRI review to get a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer acromioclavicular joint arthritis evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is AC joint arthritis?

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis is degeneration of the small joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the acromion. It results from age-related wear, previous AC separation, or repetitive overhead stress in athletes (weightlifters, swimmers).

What are the symptoms of AC joint arthritis?

Symptoms include localized pain at the top of the shoulder, tenderness directly over the AC joint, pain worsening when reaching across the body or sleeping on the affected side, and clicking or grinding with shoulder movement.

How is AC joint arthritis diagnosed?

Cross-body adduction test reproduces pain by bringing the arm across the chest. X-rays show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and sometimes upward clavicle migration. Diagnostic lidocaine injection into the joint confirms the pain source.

Can AC joint arthritis be treated without surgery?

Yes, most cases respond to activity modification, NSAIDs, and physical therapy strengthening rotator cuff muscles. Corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief. Avoiding overhead activities and sleeping on the opposite side reduces symptoms.

When is surgery needed for AC joint arthritis?

Surgery (distal clavicle excision) is considered when conservative treatment fails after 3-6 months and pain significantly limits activities. The procedure removes 5-10mm of the clavicle end, creating space and eliminating painful bone contact.