What Is AC Joint Pain?
AC joint pain refers to pain arising from the acromioclavicular joint, a small but important joint located at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade.
This joint is involved in overhead lifting, cross-body movement, and shoulder stability. Because it bears load during many routine activities, even mild inflammation, degeneration, or injury can result in noticeable shoulder top pain. AC joint pain commonly develops due to arthritis, joint sprain, repetitive stress, or gradual wear over time.
AC joint problems can interfere with everyday movements such as
- Lifting the arm overhead
- Reaching across the body
- Carrying bags or lifting objects
- Sleeping on the affected shoulder
- Sports or gym activities involving the upper limb
Pain is often felt locally at the top or front of the shoulder and may worsen with pressure, movement, or prolonged use.
Understanding the AC Joint
The acromioclavicular joint links the collarbone (clavicle) to the acromion of the shoulder blade. Although it allows only small movements, it plays a critical role in coordinating overall shoulder motion and load transfer.
In conditions such as AC joint arthritis or AC joint sprain, inflammation and cartilage wear disrupt normal joint mechanics. This results in localized pain, tenderness, and discomfort during activities that load the shoulder.
AC Joint Arthritis and Degeneration
AC joint arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain at the top of the shoulder. It develops when the cartilage within the acromioclavicular joint gradually wears down, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort during movement.
As joint cushioning reduces, stress across the AC joint increases, especially during overhead lifting and cross-body movements. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen with activity. Early, non-surgical acromioclavicular joint treatment can help control pain and reduce further joint irritation.
Symptoms of AC Joint Pain
Common symptoms include:
- Localized pain at the top or front of the shoulder
- Pain during overhead or cross-body movements
- Tenderness directly over the AC joint
- Discomfort while sleeping on the affected side
- Pain during lifting, pushing, or pulling activities
Symptoms That Need Medical Evaluation
- Persistent shoulder pain that does not improve
- Increasing tenderness or swelling over the joint
- Pain affecting sleep or daily activities
- Reduced shoulder function
Causes and Risk Factors of AC Joint Pain
AC joint pain develops due to irritation, injury, or degeneration of the acromioclavicular joint. Several factors can increase stress across this small but load-bearing joint.
AC joint arthritis:
AC joint sprain or trauma:
Repetitive shoulder use:
Age-related joint degeneration:
Previous shoulder injury or surgery:
Poor scapular control or muscle imbalance:
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosis begins with a detailed clinical evaluation and may include:
- Physical examination focusing on shoulder and AC joint movement
- Palpation to identify localized joint tenderness
- Special clinical tests to reproduce AC joint pain
- Assessment to rule out rotator cuff or other shoulder joint conditions
- X-rays to assess joint space narrowing and bony changes
- MRI when associated soft tissue or tendon involvement is suspected
Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate AC joint pain treatment planning.
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments for AC Joint Pain
Advanced non-surgical treatments may be recommended when pain persists despite physiotherapy and basic care. These options are selected based on clinical findings, pain severity, and functional limitation.
The Nivaan Way
At Nivaan Pain Clinic, all advanced non-surgical interventions are performed with precision under real-time imaging guidance, such as C-arm fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to ensure accurate targeting, improved safety, and superior outcomes.
Steroid Injections
Nerve Blocks
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Regenerative Medicine (PRP Therapy)
Trigger Point Injections
Recovery Support: Physiotherapy, Nutrition, and Pain Counseling
Recovery from AC Joint pain is more effectively treated when medical treatment is supported by structured rehabilitation and daily care.
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
Nutrition support
Pain counselling and emotional support
Together, this integrated approach supports gradual improvement and return to daily activities with confidence.
When to See an Interventional Pain Specialist?
You should consult a specialist if:
- Pain at the top of the shoulder persists for several weeks.
- Symptoms worsen with lifting or cross-body movements.
- Sleeping on the affected shoulder becomes difficult.
- Shoulder movement feels restricted.
- Pain does not improve with rest or basic care.
Early specialist care improves outcomes and reduces unnecessary progression.
Our Integrated Non-Surgical Care Pathway
At Nivaan Pain Clinic, AC joint pain care follows a structured approach:
- Comprehensive specialist assessment
- Accurate diagnosis and cause identification
- Personalized non-surgical treatment planning
- Guided rehabilitation and recovery monitoring
Book an Appointment for AC Joint Pain Treatment
If pain at the top of your shoulder is limiting daily comfort or movement, early AC joint pain treatment can help restore function and prevent long-term joint irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Joint Pain
Yes. Most cases respond well to nonsurgical acromioclavicular joint treatment when managed early.
Yes. It is a frequent cause of shoulder top pain, particularly with age or repetitive shoulder use.
Relief may last from weeks to months, depending on the treatment and individual response.
Many AC joint sprains recover with appropriate non-surgical care and rehabilitation.
No. Many patients improve with physiotherapy and activity modification. Advanced procedures are considered only when symptoms persist.