AC Joint Arthritis (Osteoarthritis) Treatment in Amsterdam

AC joint arthritis is osteoarthritis of the small joint between the collarbone and the top of the shoulder blade. Changes in the cartilage and surrounding bone can make the joint painful, particularly during certain shoulder movements.

• Age-related wear of the joint.
• Repeated strain, such as frequent overhead movements or heavy lifting.
• A previous injury to the shoulder or collarbone.

• Pain at the top of the shoulder, especially when lifting or reaching overhead.
• Pain when lying on the affected shoulder.
• Tenderness, swelling or a noticeable prominence over the joint.
• Shoulder movement that feels limited because of pain.
• Sometimes a clicking or grinding sensation.

Your specialist will consider your symptoms and examine your shoulder. Depending on your situation, further assessment may include:

• X-rays to look for changes in the AC joint.
• Ultrasound if other shoulder tissues also need to be assessed.
• In some cases, an injection with local anaesthetic to help determine whether the AC joint is the source of the pain.

Without surgery:

• Pain relief, such as paracetamol or an anti-inflammatory medicine, if suitable for you.
• Physiotherapy to support movement and shoulder strength.
• In selected cases, an injection into the AC joint.

With surgery:
If symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment, your orthopaedic surgeon may discuss distal clavicle excision with you.

Distal clavicle excision, also called lateral clavicle resection, is an operation in which a small section of the outer end of the collarbone is removed. This creates more space at the painful AC joint.

The operation may reduce pain and improve shoulder movement. Your surgeon will discuss the expected benefits and limitations for your situation.

After the operation, you may be given a sling for comfort. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on how long to wear it. Exercises and a gradual return to activity are usually part of recovery.

The operation is generally performed as a day procedure. A follow-up appointment is usually planned after approximately two weeks.

Recovery often takes around 6 to 12 weeks, although this varies between patients. Your surgeon will advise you when to resume work, sport and heavier activities.

As with any operation, complications are possible. These may include:

• Infection.
• Bleeding after surgery.
• Shoulder stiffness.
• Recovery taking longer than expected.

Your surgeon will explain the risks that are relevant to you before treatment.

After surgery, contact your treating team if you develop a fever, particularly a temperature above 38.5°C, fluid or discharge from the wound, increasing redness or pain, or if you are concerned about your recovery.