AC Joint Injury and Arthritis Treatment in Manhattan Beach and Torrance, CA
What is an AC Joint?
The AC joint stands for acromioclavicular joint. It is the small joint at the top of the shoulder between the acromion (top part of the shoulder blade) and the clavicle. This joint can be injured by a direct fall onto the shoulder or from repetitive overhead motion. It is often referred to as the ‘weightlifters joint’ because many weightlifters experience pain there after repetitive heavy lifting.
Don’t let AC joint pain keep you grounded. Beach Cities Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, a leading orthopedic surgery clinic in Manhattan Beach and Torrance, California, offers specialized solutions for AC joint injuries to help you regain comfort and resume your active lifestyle.
Dr. Morgan cares for patients in Manhattan Beach, Torrance and surrounding areas. Take the first step toward a stronger AC joint today! Call 818-863-4446 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Morgan today!
What Can Lead to an AC Joint Injury?
A direct blow to the shoulder can lead to an AC joint injury. This is commonly referred to as a shoulder separation. AC joint separations occur in varying types, 1 through 6. The degree of damage to the ligaments around the AC joint determines the type.
- Type 1 involves a sprain of the ligaments.
- Type 2involves tearing the ligaments at the AC joint.
- Type 3 involves tearing of the ligaments both at the AC joint and the ligaments that attach the clavicle to another part of the shoulder blade called the coracoid.
How Do You Treat an AC Joint Injury?
Most of these injuries are types 1 or 2 and can be treated non-operatively. Some high-grade injuries may require operative intervention. Initial treatment consists of a sling for about 4-6 weeks, physical therapy, and gradual resumption of activity. Surgery, if required, places the joint back in place and secures it with stitches and a graft to reconstruct the ligaments that were torn. Full recovery from surgery can take 4-6months.
What is AC Joint Arthritis?
AC joint arthritis is a common source of pain at the top of the shoulder. This occurs from repetitive overhead use and lifting. Arthritis is due to wearing away of the cartilage coating at the joint. AC joint arthritis pain is treated with anti-inflammatory medications, ice, and physical therapy. If pain persists, cortisone injections can be used. If all non-operative treatment fails, surgery can be performed to remove a portion of the clavicle, thereby removing the arthritis.
If you have sustained an injury to the AC joint or have on-going pain, contact us at Beach Cities Orthopedics and Sports Medicine!