Shoulder

AC Joint Surgery at Commons Clinic

6 min read
Patient post op after an AC Joint Surgery

AC joint surgery is a procedure used to treat injuries or severe arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint, commonly called the AC joint. At Commons Clinic, our orthopedic specialists evaluate shoulder injuries using advanced imaging and treat AC joint conditions with precise surgical techniques and personalized rehabilitation plans. The AC joint connects the collarbone to the top of the shoulder blade and supports shoulder movement and stability. Injuries often occur during falls, contact sports, or direct impact, causing pain, swelling, deformity, or difficulty lifting the arm. When rest, physical therapy, or medication do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be recommended.

What Is AC Joint Surgery

AC joint surgery repairs or reconstructs damaged structures around the acromioclavicular joint. The procedure may stabilize the joint, repair torn ligaments, or remove a small portion of the collarbone to reduce pain from arthritis. Many cases use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques with small incisions, allowing precise treatment while preserving surrounding tissue.

Patient post op after a AC Joint Surgeryac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy shoulder surgery acromioclavicular joint ac joint arthroscopy ac joint dislocation surgery ac joint procedure shoulder surgery shoulder separation shoulder surgery ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint ac joint arthroscopy resection acromioclavicular joint shoulder surgery acromioclavicular joint resection
Patient doing physical therapy sessions after an AC joint surgery. ac joint arthroscopy ac joint operation ac joint procedure ac joint arthroscopy rehab ac joint arthroscopy ac joint operation ac joint arthroscopy shoulder separation ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint injury ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint ac joint dislocation surgery acromioclavicular joint ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy orthopedic surgeon

Who May Need AC Joint Surgery

AC joint surgery may be recommended for patients with persistent shoulder pain or instability. Severe AC joint separation, especially high grade injuries where the collarbone is displaced, often requires surgical stabilization. Chronic AC joint pain from arthritis or long term irritation may also benefit from surgery. Athletes in contact sports commonly experience AC joint injuries that need repair. A detailed evaluation helps determine the best treatment approach.

Patient recovering from an ac joint surgery and using a computer ac joint procedure resection ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint injury ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint dislocation ac joint arthroscopy resection ac joint procedure ac joint dislocation surgery acromioclavicular joint injury ac joint arthroscopy acromioclavicular joint ac joint arthroscopy ac joint dislocation surgery acromioclavicular joint physical therapy
Patient recovering from an ac joint surgery and using a computer shoulder separation acromioclavicular joint dislocation shoulder surgery ac joint operation ac joint arthroscopy physical therapy ac joint injury surgery rehab resection physical therapy ac joint arthroscopy ac joint arthroscopy ac joint repair rehab acromioclavicular joint

Recovery After AC Joint Surgery

Recovery usually includes wearing a sling for several weeks to protect the shoulder. Physical therapy focuses on restoring range of motion and strengthening muscles. Many patients return to light activities within weeks, while full recovery may take several months depending on the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does AC joint surgery take?

AC joint surgery typically takes about one hour.

Is AC joint surgery painful?

Some discomfort is normal, but pain is managed with medication and rehabilitation.

When can I return to work?

Many patients return to desk work within one to two weeks, while physical jobs may take longer.

Can an AC joint injury heal without surgery?

Mild injuries often improve with rest and therapy, but severe cases may require surgery.

How successful is AC joint surgery?

With experienced surgeons and proper rehabilitation, surgery can reduce pain, restore stability, and improve shoulder function.