Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) arthritis

Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) arthritis – this is a degenerative condition involving the joint at the end of the collarbone (clavicle), and top of the shoulder blade (acromion). Most commonly seen in laborers, weight-lifters, increasing age, and can be associated with rotator cuff tears, or impingement syndromes.

Signs/symptoms include pain directly over the joint which may be made worse with overhead activity or reaching across the body.

Treatment

Treatment initially is conservative or nonsurgical and includes steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modifications.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is reserved for failure of conservative treatment and includes removal of the end of the collarbone by arthroscopic or open techniques.