AC joint arthritis is a condition that affects the acromioclavicular joint located between the acromion (the bony prominence on the top of the shoulder) and the clavicle (the collarbone).
This joint is responsible for connecting the shoulder blade and the collarbone and allows for a wide range of motion in the shoulder. The ligaments holding the joint together might get stretched or torn during a fall/injury, leading to arthritis.
Causes of AC Joint Arthritis
Shoulder Trauma
Shoulder trauma tops the causes of AC joint arthritis. A fall or injury can cause damage to the joint, leading to arthritis. The best orthopaedic doctor in Ludhiana explains that a fall onto an outstretched hand exerts high stress on the AC joint, causing the ligaments to stretch or tear.
It further leads to inflammation and pain, and over time, the cartilage in the joint can deteriorate, leading to arthritis.
Wear and Tear
Another cause of AC joint arthritis is wear and tear. As we age, the cartilage in our joints can deteriorate, leading to arthritis. Going through a lifetime of wear and tear on the joints, AC joint arthritis is common in older people. Consult the best orthopaedic doctor in Ludhiana before it causes grave issues in walking.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that can affect any joint in the body, including the AC joint. Deterioration of cartilage causes osteoarthritis, which leads to bone-on-bone contact, pain, and inflammation. Dr. Shekhar Singal, the best orthopaedic surgeon in Ludhiana, suggests
Symptoms of AC Joint Arthritis
Symptoms of AC joint arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and a grating or crunching sensation.
Pain
Pain is usually felt over the top of the shoulder and may be worse when lifting or reaching overhead.
Swelling and Tenderness
Swelling and tenderness may also be present in the area. Stiffness in the shoulder may also occur, making it difficult to move. Some patients may also feel a crunching or grating sensation in the joint when moving the shoulder.
Treatments for AC Joint Arthritis
Treatment for AC joint arthritis includes:
Rest and Ice
Resting the shoulder and applying ice can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy
The best orthopaedic doctor in Ludhiana suggests trying physical therapy before lunging for shoulder replacement surgery. Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve the range of motion. Exercises that focus on strengthening the rotator cuff, scapular stabilisers, and deltoids can help to support the joint and reduce symptoms.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to manage pain.
Steroid Injections
A steroid injection can be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the joint. However, get the advice of the best orthopaedic surgeon before starting the steroid injection course.
Surgery
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the joint. If non-surgical AC joint arthritis treatments do not work for you, then get shoulder replacement surgery from the best orthopaedic surgeon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AC joint arthritis is a condition that affects the joint located between the acromion and the clavicle, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and a grating or crunching sensation. It can be caused by trauma, wear, and tear, or osteoarthritis. Treatment options include rest and ice, physical therapy, medication, and surgery in severe cases.
It is paramount to consult the best orthopaedic doctor if you suspect you have AC joint arthritis to get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help to prevent the condition from progressing and can help to reduce symptoms.