What Is Ac Joint Pain Treatment?

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is the junction between the clavicle (collarbone) and the acromion (tip of the shoulder blade). It is responsible for connecting the shoulder to the body. When it becomes injured, painful inflammation can occur. AC joint pain treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms and restoring shoulder mobility. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include rest, physical therapy, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery may be necessary for more severe or chronic cases.

AC joint pain occurs when the ligaments between the clavicle and acromion become stretched or torn. This can be caused by a fall or direct impact to the shoulder, or from overuse of the joint. Symptoms of AC joint pain include tenderness when pressing on the joint, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Depending on the severity of the injury, the pain can range from mild to severe.

AC joint pain treatment typically begins with rest and activity modification. Resting the joint and avoiding activities that cause pain can help reduce inflammation and allow the joint to heal. Physical therapy can also be used to help restore shoulder mobility and strength. Physical therapists can provide specific exercises that can help strengthen the shoulder muscles and help reduce pain. Stretching exercises can also help reduce tension in the shoulder muscles, which can lead to improved range of motion. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with AC joint pain.

Surgery for AC Joint Pain Treatment

In severe or chronic cases of AC joint pain, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can help reduce the pain and improve shoulder mobility. Surgical options include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), arthroscopic stabilization, or AC joint resection. ORIF is used to reconstruct the ligaments between the clavicle and acromion and can help restore shoulder stability and strength. Arthroscopic stabilization is used to repair the ligaments and secure them in place. AC joint resection is used to remove the end of the clavicle, which can relieve pain in the joint.

Following surgery, physical therapy is usually recommended to help restore shoulder strength and mobility. Physical therapy may involve stretching, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and activities to improve shoulder range of motion. Patients may also use anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce pain and swelling. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend physical therapy sessions in order to ensure a successful recovery.

AC joint pain can be a debilitating condition, but with proper treatment, it can be managed. Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve the symptoms and restore shoulder mobility. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the ligaments and provide long-term relief from pain. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend physical therapy sessions in order to ensure a successful recovery.

Conclusion

AC joint pain can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with proper treatment, it can be managed. Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve the symptoms and restore shoulder mobility. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the ligaments and provide long-term relief from pain. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend physical therapy sessions in order to ensure a successful recovery.