What is ACJ Arthritis Surgery?
ACJ (Acromioclavicular Joint) Arthritis Surgery is performed to treat chronic shoulder pain caused by wear and tear of the AC joint — the joint where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the acromion of the shoulder blade. When medications, physiotherapy, and injections fail, surgical intervention becomes necessary to restore shoulder function and relieve pain. The most commonly performed procedure is the Distal Clavicle Excision, also known as the Mumford Procedure.
ACJ Arthritis Surgery in Hyderabad – Expert Care for Long-Term Relief
ACJ Arthritis Surgery in Hyderabad focuses on relieving shoulder pain caused by arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint. The surgery aims to reduce pain, improve joint movement, and restore shoulder function when non-surgical treatments are no longer effective. Using precise evaluation and advanced surgical techniques, treatment is tailored to the severity of joint damage and the patient’s activity level, enabling individuals to return safely to their daily activities with improved comfort and mobility.
Struggling with ACJ Arthritis? Here’s What You Should Know
ACJ arthritis affects the small joint at the top of the shoulder, causing pain, stiffness, and discomfort during daily arm movements. ACJ Arthritis Surgery in Hyderabad focuses on accurately diagnosing the joint damage and relieving pain while preserving shoulder movement and function. When timely treatment is provided using detailed evaluation and evidence-based surgical techniques, patients can avoid long-term stiffness and functional limitations. With personalised care, Dr Praful Kilaru helps restore comfort, mobility, and confidence, allowing patients to return to everyday activities with ease.
Common Symptoms of ACJ Arthritis
- Pain in the top of the shoulder
- Tenderness or mild swelling near the AC joint
- Pain during overhead or cross-body movements
- Shoulder stiffness or limited motion
- Discomfort that may worsen with activity or rest
Common Causes of ACJ Arthritis
- Age-related wear and tear of the shoulder joint
- Previous shoulder injuries or fractures
- Repetitive overhead arm movements
- Heavy lifting or sports-related strain
- Degeneration of the AC joint over time
ACJ Arthritis Treatment Options in Hyderabad
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medications
- Activity modification and rest
- Physiotherapy to improve shoulder strength and mobility
- Ice or heat therapy for symptom control
- Guided shoulder exercises
Surgical Treatments
- Arthroscopic ACJ arthritis surgery
- Removal of damaged joint surfaces (distal clavicle excision)
- Minimally invasive shoulder procedures
- Surgery for advanced or persistent AC joint pain
- Post-surgical rehabilitation to restore function
Diagnosis of ACJ Arthritis
- Discussing the shoulder pain
- Checking the AC joint
- X-rays to check joint damage
- MRI or CT scan if needed
What Causes ACJ Arthritis?
ACJ arthritis develops due to gradual joint wear or repeated stress on the shoulder. Understanding the cause helps plan the right treatment.
Joint Wear & Tear
- Age-related degeneration
- Long-term joint stress
Shoulder Strain or Injury
- Previous shoulder injuries
- Repetitive overhead movements
- Heavy lifting or sports strain
Joint Degeneration Factors
- Cartilage wear in the AC joint
- Reduced joint cushioning over time
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ACJ surgery painful?
How long does AC joint surgery take?
Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
Is the Mumford procedure safe?
How long does it take to recover after ACJ arthritis surgery?
Most patients can resume daily activities within 4–6 weeks, while full shoulder strength and mobility usually return in 2–3 months with proper physiotherapy.
What is ACJ arthritis?
ACJ arthritis is the degeneration of the acromioclavicular joint, located at the top of the shoulder, causing pain and stiffness.
What are the common symptoms?
Pain at the top of the shoulder, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and discomfort during overhead or cross-body movements.
What causes ACJ arthritis?
Age-related wear and tear, previous shoulder injuries, repetitive overhead activity, or long-term joint stress cause it.
How is ACJ arthritis diagnosed?
Through physical examination, patient history, X-rays, and sometimes MRI or CT scans for detailed joint evaluation.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery is considered if non-surgical treatments like medications, physiotherapy, or activity modification fail to relieve pain and improve movement.
What does ACJ arthritis surgery involve?
It usually involves arthroscopic removal of damaged joint surfaces (distal clavicle excision) to relieve pain and restore shoulder movement.
How long is the recovery period?
Most patients regain daily activity within 4–6 weeks, while full strength and mobility may take 2–3 months with proper physiotherapy.
Are there any risks or complications?
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, stiffness, or incomplete pain relief, but complications are rare with experienced surgeons.
Can I avoid surgery?
Mild ACJ arthritis can often be managed with medications, physiotherapy, lifestyle changes, and pain-relief injections.
