The Acromioclavicular Joint and How Physiotherapists Can Help with Injuries
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint plays a crucial role in the function of your shoulder, connecting the acromion (a part of the scapula, or shoulder blade) to the clavicle (collarbone). While small, this joint is involved in many of the movements we take for granted, from lifting your arm to throwing a ball or simply reaching overhead. Injuries to the AC joint can cause significant pain and limit movement, which can be frustrating and hinder your daily activities. Fortunately, physiotherapists are well-equipped to treat AC joint injuries, helping you regain mobility and strength in your shoulder.
What is the Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint?
The AC joint is a small but vital joint in the shoulder region that connects the acromion, which is part of the scapula, to the clavicle. This joint allows the shoulder to move in multiple directions, contributing to the overall flexibility and range of motion of the arm. It is essential for overhead movements, such as lifting, throwing, and pushing.
Despite its small size, the AC joint is susceptible to injury, especially during physical activities that involve overhead movements or when subjected to trauma like falls, sports injuries, or repetitive use.
Common Causes of AC Joint Injuries
Injuries to the AC joint are commonly seen in sports, especially contact sports like rugby, hockey, or football, but they can also occur in everyday life. Some of the most common causes of AC joint injuries include:
Direct Trauma: A fall onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder can result in an injury to the AC joint. This is often the cause of AC joint sprains or separations.
Repetitive Overhead Movements: Activities such as swimming, weightlifting, or throwing motions can place stress on the AC joint, leading to wear and tear, which can result in conditions like arthritis in the joint.
Arthritis: Over time, wear and tear in the AC joint can lead to osteoarthritis, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly with movements involving the arm.
AC Joint Sprains: These occur when the ligaments that connect the acromion and clavicle are overstretched or torn, often as a result of trauma or a sudden, forceful movement.
Symptoms of an AC Joint Injury
AC joint injuries can present with a range of symptoms depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:
Pain at the top of the shoulder, which may worsen with overhead movements or lifting the arm.
Tenderness when pressing on the AC joint.
Swelling or bruising around the joint, particularly if the injury is traumatic.
Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the shoulder.
A "bump" or deformity in the collarbone area, which may occur in severe separations.
How Can a Physiotherapist Help with AC Joint Injuries?
If you're suffering from an AC joint injury, a physiotherapist can help you manage pain, restore movement, and strengthen the surrounding muscles to prevent further damage. Here's how they can assist:
Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment: A physiotherapist will start by assessing the severity of the injury through a physical examination and may use imaging tests like X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. They will then create a tailored treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Pain Management: Physiotherapists use various techniques to manage pain associated with AC joint injuries. These may include modalities like ice or heat therapy, ultrasound, or TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
Gentle Mobilisation and Stretching: After an injury, it’s important to gently restore the joint’s mobility. A physiotherapist will guide you through specific exercises designed to stretch and mobilise the joint without causing further strain. This helps improve range of motion and prevents stiffness in the shoulder.
Strengthening Exercises: Once the pain has subsided, a physiotherapist will help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, such as the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers. Strengthening these muscles can help take the load off the AC joint, reduce the risk of future injury, and improve shoulder stability.
Posture and Movement Training: Poor posture or faulty movement patterns can contribute to AC joint pain. Physiotherapists can teach you proper posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on the shoulder. They may also recommend specific adjustments to your workout routine or daily activities to prevent overloading the joint.
Gradual Return to Activity: As your condition improves, physiotherapists will guide you through a gradual return to your normal activities, ensuring you don’t push your body too hard too soon. This helps prevent re-injury and allows for a full recovery.
Final Thoughts
Injuries to the AC joint, whether from trauma, overuse, or age-related wear, can significantly affect shoulder function and limit daily activities. Fortunately, with the help of a skilled physiotherapist, recovery is possible. Through targeted exercises, manual therapy, pain management, and education, a physiotherapist can help you regain mobility and strength, while preventing future injuries. If you suspect you’ve injured your AC joint, it’s important to seek professional care to ensure a timely recovery and avoid long-term complications.
