AC Joint Arthritis

AC joint arthritis involves degeneration of the small joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the acromion.

This condition commonly causes pain directly on top of the shoulder.

Common symptoms

• Pain on top of the shoulder
• Pain with bench press or push-ups
• Tenderness over the AC joint
• Pain reaching across the body
• Clicking or grinding

Treatment options

• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Corticosteroid injection
• Physical therapy
• Distal clavicle excision surgery

Most patients improve without surgery.

What this means for patients

AC joint arthritis is a common and treatable source of shoulder pain, especially in active patients and weightlifters.