About AC joint arthritis
The acromioclavicular, or AC, joint is a small joint at the very top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets part of the shoulder blade. Like other joints, its cartilage can wear down, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes a visible bump.
AC joint arthritis is common in people who lift weights, do overhead work, or have had a past shoulder separation. Pain is usually felt right on top of the shoulder rather than deep inside, and it often flares with bench pressing, dips, or reaching across the chest.
Common symptoms
- Pain right on top of the shoulder that you can point to with one finger
- Pain when reaching across your body or behind your back
- Pain with pushing exercises such as bench press or dips
- Tenderness or a bump over the joint
- Pain lying on the affected side
Common causes and risk factors
- Age-related joint wear
- A prior AC joint separation from a fall or contact sport
- Heavy weightlifting, especially pressing movements
- Repeated overhead or manual work
How we diagnose it
Dr. Chen presses over the joint and uses specific movements, such as bringing the arm across the chest, to reproduce the pain. Ultrasound at the exam table shows swelling, joint changes, and fluid, and it checks the rotator cuff at the same visit. A small ultrasound-guided numbing injection into the joint can confirm whether it is the true pain source.
How Propel treats AC joint arthritis
First-line care includes adjusting lifts that load the joint, such as narrowing grip width or limiting depth on pressing movements, while building rotator cuff and shoulder blade strength. The goal is to keep you training, not to stop. A guided corticosteroid injection can calm a flare.
For persistent pain, Dr. Chen may offer an ultrasound-guided PRP injection to help ease pain and improve function. When pain continues despite these steps, nerve ablation can quiet the small sensory nerves that carry pain from the joint. If conservative care fails, we can help coordinate a surgical opinion.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about AC joint arthritis
- Is AC joint arthritis the same as shoulder arthritis?
- No. AC joint arthritis affects the small joint at the top of the shoulder, while shoulder arthritis usually means the main ball-and-socket joint. They cause pain in different places and are treated differently.
- Can I keep lifting weights with AC joint arthritis?
- Usually, yes. Changing grip, range, and exercise choice often lets people keep training while the joint settles. Dr. Chen can help tailor your program.
- How does nerve ablation help AC joint pain?
- Nerve ablation uses controlled heat or pulsed energy to quiet the small nerves that carry pain signals from the joint. It does not change the joint itself, but it may reduce pain for a meaningful period.