Acromio-Clavicular Joint Pain

Common Complaints: Acromio-Clavicular Joint Pain

It seems this damp weather has led to a larger number of people coming into the clinic with pain on the point of the shoulder – this is often caused by an injury to the Acromio-Clavicular joint (AC joint) – here is some handy information on this common problem.

Pain originating from the AC joint (the joint at the end of the collarbone – on top of the shoulder) is usually well localized and the client will often place one finger directly over the AC joint when asked to indicate the most painful area.

There is usually discomfort with humerus and scapula movement, particularly movements where the arm is brought across the body into a horizontally flexed position. Uncomfortable exercises in the gym may include bench press (particularly wide grip bench), dips and push ups. The person often has difficulty sleeping on the effected side.

Some suggestion to reduce stress on the AC joint when exercising includes:

1.  Keep the elbows closer to the side with a shoulder width hand position during push-up and bench press.
2.  If bench pressing or doing push ups – decrease the depth of the repetitions to keep the elbows above the horizontal.
3. Perform pull downs with a closer or even underhand grip.
4. Reduce the amount of overhead exercise in the program.
5. Avoid sleeping on the effected side until the pain improves.
6. Ensure you have a thorough warm up before exercise

If you have problems with your shoulders make sure you book an appointment with us today 01277 246 400 / www.sportsandspinalphysio.co.uk