ACROMIOCLAVICULAR JOINT INJURIES INJECTION
Acromioclavicular Joint Injury
An acromioclavicular joint injury refers to damage involving the ligaments or cartilage within the AC joint. This injury can occur due to sudden trauma or gradual wear and tear over time.
The most common form of injury is a sprain or separation, where the ligaments holding the joint together become stretched or torn. In some cases, the clavicle may shift out of its normal position, leading to visible deformity or swelling. Over time, repeated minor injuries or natural degeneration can also lead to AC joint arthritis, where the cartilage within the joint breaks down, causing chronic shoulder pain and stiffness.
Symptoms of AC Joint Injury
Symptoms can vary depending on the grade of injury. Common complaints include:
- Localised pain on top of the shoulder
- Pain when lifting the arm or carrying weight
- Swelling or bruising over the AC joint
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the shoulder
- A visible bump or deformity if the clavicle is elevated
- Weakness in the shoulder and upper arm
- Reduced range of motion
In long-standing cases, especially those involving arthritis, patients may report persistent ache, worse at night or after overhead activity.
Treatment We Offer
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer non-surgical treatment options for AC joint injuries using image-guided injection therapy. Our treatments are administered by trained clinicians using real-time ultrasound guidance for accurate delivery and minimal discomfort.
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections
- Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication
- Reduces pain and swelling within the joint
- Helps restore range of motion and shoulder function
- Ideal for acute sprains, chronic inflammation, or early-stage arthritis
Ultrasound-Guided Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid helps lubricate and cushion the joint
- Suitable for wear-and-tear injuries and AC joint osteoarthritis
- Provides longer-term relief for joint stiffness and pain
- Can be an option for patients unable to tolerate corticosteroids
Your Care Pathway with us
- To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
- Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
- Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.
Understanding the Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is located at the top of the shoulder, where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the acromion, which is the bony projection of the scapula (shoulder blade). This joint allows the shoulder to move in various directions, particularly during overhead activities and arm lifting.
Although small, the AC joint plays a vital role in shoulder stability and mobility. It is supported by strong ligaments that help absorb stress from everyday movements. When this joint is injured, it can result in pain, restricted movement, and functional limitations, especially in athletes or individuals engaged in heavy lifting or overhead work.
Common Causes of AC Joint Injuries
AC joint injuries can occur due to:
- Direct trauma to the shoulder (e.g. contact sports like rugby or football)
- Falls onto the shoulder or outstretched hand
- Lifting heavy weights, especially during overhead presses or bench presses
- Repetitive strain from activities involving frequent shoulder movement
- Degenerative changes associated with ageing and joint wear
Athletes, weightlifters, and manual workers are especially prone to these types of injuries. Chronic overuse can also contribute to acromioclavicular joint degeneration, where inflammation and cartilage thinning lead to pain and reduced function.
Grades of AC Joint Injuries
AC joint injuries are typically classified into six grades, depending on the severity of ligament damage and displacement of the joint.
Grade 1 – Mild Sprain
- Ligaments are stretched but intact
- No visible deformity
- Pain with overhead movement
- Most common and least severe form
Grade 2 – Partial Tear
- Partial tearing of the acromioclavicular ligament
- Minor displacement of the clavicle
- Localised swelling and tenderness
- Pain increases with arm elevation
Grade 3 – Complete Tear
- Complete disruption of both acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments
- Obvious ‘step deformity’ where the clavicle sticks up
- Significant shoulder instability
- May require surgical consultation
Grades 4–6 – Severe Injury
- High-grade injuries with complete separation of the joint
- Often accompanied by muscle trauma and soft tissue displacement
- Usually caused by high-impact trauma
- Surgery is typically recommended
At Alton Pain Clinic, we specialise in managing Grade 1 and Grade 2 injuries, as well as early-stage AC joint arthritis, using ultrasound-guided injection therapy.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of an AC joint injury starts with a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, including specific questions regarding when the pain began, and what aggravates and relieves the pain.
A clinician at Alton Pain Clinic will use ultrasound to diagnose. Ultrasound is highly effective for diagnosing AC joint injuries, offering dynamic imaging of the joint in real time. It helps identify acromioclavicular separation, ligamentous tears, and soft tissue abnormalities such as effusion or swelling.
Recovery and Outlook
For mild to moderate AC joint injuries, injection therapy often leads to significant symptom improvement within days to weeks. Many patients return to normal activities shortly after the procedure, though it’s important to follow guidance regarding temporary rest and gradual return to overhead movement.
More severe or recurrent cases may require a longer recovery period or further evaluation.
Book Your Consultation
If you’re suffering from shoulder pain related to an AC joint injury, our clinicians at Alton Pain Clinic can offer precise diagnosis and targeted treatment with ultrasound-guided cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections. Early intervention can help relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent further joint deterioration.