Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis C0409963
Arthritis of the shoulder joint where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Common in adults, especially those with repetitive shoulder strain or past injuries. Treated with rest, therapy, and sometimes injections; surgery is rarely needed.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Joint pain or stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Shoulder pain
(musculoskeletal)Loss of shoulder motion
(musculoskeletal)Swelling at the AC joint
(musculoskeletal)Tenderness over the AC joint
(musculoskeletal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Rotator cuff and scapular stabilization program
Targeted physical therapy to strengthen shoulder girdle muscles, improve biomechanics, and reduce stress on the AC joint.
Anti-inflammatory pain management
NSAIDs and analgesics to reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with degenerative changes in the AC joint.
Additional treatment options
Corticosteroid injection therapy
Image-guided injection of anti-inflammatory medication directly into the AC joint to provide targeted relief of inflammation and pain.
procedureActivity modification and ergonomics
Avoidance of aggravating activities, particularly overhead movements and cross-body adduction; ergonomic workplace adjustments.
lifestyleDistal clavicle excision
Arthroscopic or open surgical removal of the distal clavicle end to eliminate bone-on-bone contact and resolve chronic pain.
surgicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis C0409963?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Pensak MM, Grumet C, McGwin G, Cagle PJ Jr. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries and Arthritis. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2020;28(5):e187-e195.
Johansson HD, van Rijn RM, van der Heijden BE, Poolman RW. Surgical versus conservative treatment for acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis: a systematic review. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2019;28(6):1178-1189.
Koch BS, Shafritz BS, Wang ML, Stein BE, Strauch RJ. Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection for isolated acromioclavicular joint arthritis: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Arthroscopy. 2021;37(8):2484-2493.
Blaine TA, Freehill MQ, Nicholson GP. The stiff shoulder: evaluation and management of acromioclavicular joint arthritis and beyond. Orthop Clin North Am. 2022;53(2):195-206.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis C0409963. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy