AC Joint Sprains – Recovery Starts with Physiotherapy

If you’ve fallen on your shoulder, copped a direct hit, or felt a sharp pain at the top of your shoulder after lifting something heavy, you might have injured your AC joint. This common shoulder injury can be painful—but with the right physiotherapy plan, you can make a full recovery.

What is the AC joint?

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is where your collarbone meets the highest point of your shoulder blade. It’s a small joint but plays a big role in overhead and arm movements.

What is an AC joint sprain?

An AC joint sprain occurs when the ligaments stabilising this joint are overstretched or torn, usually due to trauma like:

• Falling onto the shoulder

• A direct blow in contact sports

• Lifting something awkwardly overhead

Types of AC joint injuries:

• Grade I: Mild strain with local pain

• Grade II: Partial tear of ligaments and moderate pain

• Grade III+: Complete rupture, visible step deformity, significant loss of function

Treatment options:

• Mild to moderate sprains (Grade I–II) respond well to physiotherapy.

• Severe injuries (Grade III or higher) may need surgical input if conservative care doesn’t help.

How physiotherapy helps:

At Darwin Health Group, we support your AC joint recovery with:

• Pain relief techniques like joint mobilisation and taping

• Targeted strengthening of the shoulder and upper back muscles

• Range-of-motion restoration to get your arm moving again

• Return-to-work and sport-specific rehab tailored to your needs

📍 Conveniently located in Darwin, we help clients get back to their best every day.

Book your shoulder assessment now and get a clear treatment plan moving forward.