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Physiotherapy treatment at Vitalis, Sinnamon Park
Conditions we treat

AC Joint Disorder Treatment in Sinnamon Park

AC Joint Disorders are a group of conditions which affect the acromioclavicular joint and other surrounding structures in the shoulder. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of AC joint disorders aim to:

Restore Movement Reduce Pain Optimise Recovery
About the condition

What Are AC Joint Disorders?

The shoulder has what’s known as the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where two bones meet – one of which is the collarbone (clavicle), the other bone being a part of the shoulder blade (scapula) called the acromion. Tendons and ligaments form the main surrounding structures to the AC joint.

General wear and tear of the joint to contact sports and trauma injuries can affect the AC joint. The three most common AC joint disorders are:

  • Arthritis– loss of cartilage at the joint
  • Fractures– of the bones compromising the AC joint
  • Separations– torn ligaments at the joint (ranging from a Grade I to Grade V, depending on severity)
Causes

What Are The Causes Of AC Joint Disorders?

The exact cause and severity of AC joint disorders can vary, however there are some common factors which may contribute to diagnosis. These include:

  • Sports-related injuries – contact sports (football, hockey, rugby, etc)Weightlifters are at higher risk of overloading the joint and developing osetoarthritis in the AC joint
  • General wear and tear of the joints and cartilage over time
  • Falls
  • Trauma – e.g. car accident
  • Sudden blow/force against the shoulder
Symptoms

What Are The Symptoms?

  • Pain in the shoulder and upper body Mild to moderate aches (arthritis symptoms)Severe pain (ligament tears)
  • Mild to moderate aches (arthritis symptoms)
  • Severe pain (ligament tears)
  • Stiffness/inability to move the arm or shoulder, specifically across the body
  • Tenderness over the AC joint and surrounding structures
  • Reduced range of movement
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Obvious step deformities (Grade III – V ligament tears)
Treatment

Treatment For AC Joint Disorders

If you suspect you have an AC joint disorder, it is important to see a medical professional. You will likely be referred for imaging to determine the type and severity of the condition.

Physical therapy is highly beneficial in reducing associated symptoms. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:

In the event that there is pain and reduced movement is severe, driving and strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use neck support or a suitable pillow.

  • Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
  • Restoring range of movement
  • Postural improvement
  • Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
  • Shockwave Therapy
  • Dry needling
  • Taping
  • A unique home exercise program
  • Graded Exposure to load program
Where to find us

Treating AC Joint Disorder in Sinnamon Park

Sinnamon Park Village, 3/58 Oldfield Road — ground floor, parking at the door. Patients come to us from across Brisbane’s western suburbs.

Sinnamon ParkJindaleeMount OmmaneySeventeen Mile RocksRiverhillsMiddle ParkWestlakeSumnerDarraOxleyCorindaJamboree Heights

Can’t get to the clinic? We also offer home visits. Not sure this is what you have? See all conditions we treat.

Get it assessed properly

The sooner this is looked at, the shorter the recovery usually is. Book online in under a minute, or call and describe what is going on.

Book online 0410 559 856

No referral needed — bring one only if you are claiming through Medicare, DVA or WorkCover.