Joint Dislocation and Calcification

AC (acromioclavicular) joint is a joint formed with the help of special ligament bridges between the acromion, a special part of the shoulder blade, and the clavicle. It usually develops in young people and athletes after direct trauma.

Distinctive results are noticeable even when viewed with the naked eye. Patients experience pain on the AC joint and limitation of shoulder joint movements.

The collarbone can be seen higher than the shoulder. The diagnosis is confirmed with simple x-ray examinations. Injuries that do not involve much joint separation can be treated using non-surgical methods (shoulder arm sling, medication, ice application, physical therapy). Generally, shoulder movements are completely restored after 6 weeks and a return to normal life is achieved at the end of 12 weeks. In cases where joint separation is severe and in athletes, repair of the injured ligaments can be achieved with surgical treatment that can be applied with open or closed technique.

Avoiding trauma is very important to prevent AC joint injuries.

AC joint calcification (arthrosis) is the most common disease affecting the AC joint. Since it is a small joint, disorders in the joint structure develop with advancing age as a result of repetitive trauma. Calcification that progresses over time causes pain in shoulder movements and direct contact.

Patients have pain in the upper part of the shoulder that increases with lying on it and overhead activities. In direct x-ray and MRI examinations, incompatibility on the joint surfaces and additional bone developments (osteophytes) can be detected. It can generally be treated with non-surgical treatments (medication, activity modification, physical therapy, intra-articular injection). Surgical treatment can be performed using closed or open techniques for patients whose complaints do not go away.

Avoiding repetitive overhead activities and trauma is important in preventing AC joint arthritis. It is important for people with pain in the upper shoulder area to be examined by an orthopedist for early diagnosis and treatment.