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Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis Pain

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint, like most other joints in the body, can suffer from painful arthritis. Pain relievers may keep the symptoms at bay, but surgery offers a more permanent solution.

  1. Arthritis

    • The Arthritis Foundation describes arthritis as a blanket term for many different conditions characterized by pain or stiffness in a joint.

    The AC Joint

    • The AC joint, located where the shoulder meets the clavicle (collar bone), contains cartilage at the bone ends as well as an inner cartilage capsule.

    Causes

    • Heavy use of the shoulder joint, as seen in professional athletes, can cause the cartilage in the AC joint to wear out over time, causing arthritis.

    Treatment

    • Anti-inflammatory drugs or steroid injections may relieve AC joint pain temporarily, according to Orland Park Orthopedics. The Southern California Orthopedic institute adds that a relatively minor surgery known as a Mumford Procedure can repair the joint.

    Considerations

    • Pain in the AC joint may not mean arthritis. The Southern California Orthopedic Institute states that another condition called DCO or "Weightlifter's Shoulder" may closely mimic the symptoms of AC joint arthritis.

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