AC Joint Injuries: Physiotherapy Assessment & Rehabilitation
Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries affect the joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. These injuries commonly occur following falls, contact sports, or repetitive overhead loading.
At Fit2Function Allied Health, we provide evidence-based physiotherapy to manage AC joint injuries, restore shoulder function, and guide safe return to work and sport.
What is the AC joint?
The AC joint connects the clavicle (collarbone) to the acromion of the shoulder blade and plays an important role in overhead and cross-body movements.
Injuries range from:
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Mild ligament sprains
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Joint irritation or overload
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More significant separations following trauma
Common symptoms
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Pain at the top of the shoulder
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Pain with cross-body or overhead movements
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Localised tenderness over the AC joint
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Swelling following trauma
Physiotherapy management
Most AC joint injuries are managed successfully without surgery.
Rehabilitation focuses on:
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Pain and load management
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Gradual restoration of shoulder range of motion
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Progressive strengthening of the shoulder and upper limb
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Return-to-sport or work conditioning
Do I need imaging or surgery?
X-rays may be used to assess joint separation following trauma. Surgery is reserved for specific cases, with physiotherapy playing a central role in recovery regardless of treatment pathway.
Book a shoulder assessment
If you have shoulder pain following a fall or contact injury, our physiotherapists can assess your AC joint and guide effective rehabilitation.
Learn more about shoulder injuries & physiotherapy
Explore our other shoulder condition pages to understand evidence-based assessment, rehabilitation, and return-to-activity strategies:
Rotator Cuff Injuries | Subacromial Pain / Shoulder Impingement | Frozen Shoulder | Shoulder Instability & Dislocation | AC Joint Injuries | Labral Injuries (SLAP, Bankart & Hill-Sachs) | Biceps Tendon Pain / Anterior shoulder pain
Our physiotherapists provide individualised programs focused on restoring movement, strength, and long-term shoulder health.
