An acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury affects the joint where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. These injuries commonly occur after a fall, sports impact, or repetitive overhead activity. Physical therapy helps restore shoulder movement, rebuild strength, and support safe return to activity.
Are you experiencing pain at the top of your shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or across your body? The discomfort may be related to an acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury, a condition affecting the joint where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade.
At Rose Physical Therapy in Washington, DC, physical therapists help individuals recover from both traumatic and overuse AC joint injuries through personalized treatment plans that restore shoulder strength and mobility.
Understanding the AC Joint
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint connects the acromion of the shoulder blade to the clavicle (collarbone).
This joint is stabilized by several ligaments that maintain alignment and allow the shoulder to move efficiently during lifting and reaching.
When these ligaments are injured, the joint may partially separate. This condition is often referred to as a shoulder separation, which is different from a shoulder dislocation involving the main shoulder joint.
Common Causes of AC Joint Injury
AC joint injuries may occur from trauma or repetitive stress.
Common causes include:
• Falls directly onto the shoulder
• Sports collisions such as football, hockey, or rugby
• Cycling or skiing accidents
• Falls onto an outstretched arm
• Repetitive overhead activities
• Heavy weightlifting or physically demanding work
In some cases, AC joint irritation can also develop gradually due to cartilage wear within the joint.
Types of AC Joint Injury
Traumatic AC joint injury
Occurs when a sudden impact damages the supporting ligaments. Injuries range from mild sprains to more severe separations.
Overuse AC joint injury
Develops gradually when repetitive stress overloads the joint. Over time, cartilage wear may lead to irritation or AC joint arthritis.
Mild to moderate injuries often respond well to conservative treatment such as physical therapy.
Symptoms of an AC Joint Injury
Common signs include:
• Pain at the top of the shoulder
• Swelling or tenderness over the AC joint
• Reduced shoulder range of motion
• Weakness when lifting the arm
• A visible bump at the top of the shoulder in some cases
• Pain when lying on the affected side
• Clicking or catching sensations during shoulder movement
• Discomfort with activities such as reaching overhead or across the body
How Physical Therapy Helps AC Joint Injuries
At Rose Physical Therapy, treatment focuses on restoring shoulder mobility and strengthening the muscles that support the joint.
Your rehabilitation program may include:
Range of motion restoration
Gradually improving shoulder mobility without stressing the healing joint.
Targeted strengthening
Building strength in the shoulder, upper back, and surrounding stabilizing muscles.
Manual therapy
Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and soft tissue flexibility.
Pain management strategies
Modalities such as ice or heat to help manage discomfort.
Functional movement training
Improving lifting, reaching, and overhead mechanics to reduce joint stress.
Each treatment plan is individualized based on the severity of the injury and your activity goals.
Recover from an AC Joint Injury at Rose Physical Therapy
Pain at the top of the shoulder can make everyday movement uncomfortable, but targeted treatment can help restore strength and mobility. At Rose Physical Therapy, care focuses on improving shoulder mechanics so you can return to work, sports, and daily activities safely.
If AC joint pain is affecting your daily life, Rose Physical Therapy is here to help. Schedule an evaluation at one of our Washington, DC locations:
Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard
Early treatment can help restore shoulder movement, reduce pain, and support a safe return to activity.