Specialties
    Executive Health Assessment
    Our doctors
    Referrer services
    Contact us
    Request appointment
    Home
    1. Home
    2. Specialties
    3. Orthopaedics
    4. Shoulder and Elbow Pain Treatment
    5. AC Joint Injury

    AC Joint Injury Treatment

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our orthopaedic and musculoskeletal specialists assess and manage acromioclavicular joint (ACJ)  injuries, including ACJ dislocations, using advanced diagnostic imaging and a coordinated, patient-focused approach to care. 

    Patients benefit from access to our internationally recognised multidisciplinary team including consultant orthopaedic specialists, physiotherapists, and imaging experts. This enables accurate diagnosis and the development of personalised treatment plans, with a focus on effective non-surgical management wherever appropriate.

    • An ACJ injury involves damage to the acromioclavicular joint, located at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the acromion of the shoulder blade. 

      These injuries vary in severity, ranging from mild ligament strain to more significant disruption. In more severe cases, the ligaments that stabilise the joint may tear completely, causing the separation of the bones. This is referred to as an ACJ dislocation. 

      ACJ injuries are relatively common and often occur following a fall or direct impact to the shoulder. While mild injuries may heal with conservative care, more significant injuries, including ACJ dislocation, may require closer monitoring and structured rehabilitation. 

    • Symptoms of an AC joint injury can vary depending on severity, from mild discomfort to more pronounced pain and functional limitation. 

      Common symptoms include:

      • Pain at the top of the shoulder 
      • Tenderness when touching the joint 
      • Swelling or bruising 
      • Reduced range of motion 
      • Pain when lifting or moving the arm 
      • Weakness in the shoulder 

      In more severe cases, such as an ACJ dislocation, symptoms may also include: 

      • A visible bump or deformity at the top of the shoulder 
      • Increased pain and a sense of instability 
      • Difficulty performing everyday movements 

      As these symptoms can overlap with other shoulder conditions, accurate assessment is important. If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities, specialist evaluation is recommended. 

      At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, we take time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals, ensuring your AC joint injury treatment is tailored to support recovery, restore movement, and reduce pain.  

    • An ACJ injury is most commonly caused by trauma or direct impact to the shoulder. 

      • Typical causes include:
      • Falling directly onto the shoulder 
      • Injuries sustained during contact sports 
      • Lifting heavy weights or objects 
      • Sudden impact during physical activity 

      These injuries occur when the ligaments supporting the AC joint are stretched or torn. The extent of ligament damage determines the severity of the injury and whether it progresses to an ACJ dislocation. 

      Factors that may increase the risk include: 

      • Participation in high-impact or contact sports 
      • Previous shoulder injuries 
      • Physically demanding occupations  

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, diagnosing an AC joint injury begins with a detailed consultation with a specialist, focusing on symptoms, medical history, and the mechanism of injury. A physical examination is performed to assess pain, movement, and joint stability. 

      Where appropriate, further investigations may include: 

      • X-rays, to identify joint alignment and identify displacement
      • Ultrasound imaging, to evaluate ligaments and soft tissues
      • MRI scans, to provide detailed images of the joint and surrounding structures

      This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and supports the development of an appropriate, individualised treatment plan. 

    • Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, with most AC joint injuries managed successfully without surgery. 

      Non-surgical treatment options may include:

      • Short-term rest and use of a sling 
      • Ice and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling 
      • Physiotherapy to restore strength, stability, and range of motion 
      • Structured rehabilitation programmes tailored to each stage of recovery
      • Image-guided steroid injections for persistent pain and inflammation
      • Surgical reconstruction

      Mild to moderate injuries typically respond well to conservative management. Even in cases of ACJ dislocation, non-surgical treatment is frequently effective when supported by a structured rehabilitation programme. 

      At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, your specialist will create a personalised treatment plan based on your injury, activity level, and recovery goals. Our focus is on restoring shoulder function safely and effectively. 

    • We use a wide range of diagnostic procedures to ensure your condition is dealt with in the most appropriate way possible.

      Our team may run tests such as:

      • MRI/ultrasound fusion biopsy
      • PET scans
      • Urodynamic studies that measure bladder function
      • Imaging and endoscopy
      • Laboratory and molecular diagnostics
      • Functional testing

      Results are most often available within several days of testing.

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare London works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. 

    Self-pay arrangements are also available, and our team can guide you through pricing and appointment availability.

    Book an AC joint injury assessment 

    If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect an ACJ injury, early assessment can support recovery and prevent long term issues. 

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, you will receive expert evaluation and a personalised AC joint injury treatment plan, including assessment for conditions such as ACJ dislocation. 

    ​Request an appointment today or call 0207 871 2575 to book your orthopaedic consultation at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London.

    Home
    1. Home
    2. Specialties
    3. Orthopaedics
    4. Shoulder and Elbow Pain Treatment
    5. AC Joint Injury