Acromioclavicular joint: structure, pathology

Arthrosis of the acromioclavicular joint develops, as a rule, due to the processes of natural aging. One more popular reason is the injuries of the articulation obtained during life. For example, this may be a dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. Pathology differs degenerate-dystrophic, inflammatory character. In the early stages of the disease, the acromioclavicular joint can be restored quickly enough. In later stages, more time and effort will be needed to heal.

Structure of articulation

The acromial-clavicular joint is part of the brachial joint. Like the others, this joint includes a ligament apparatus and a capsule. The acromion is a process that departs from the scapula and connects to the clavicle. The articulation from above covers the cartilaginous tissue along the edges of the bones. There are a number of features that distinguish the acromioclavicular joint. Movement in it compared, for example, with the hip or ulnar have a smaller amplitude. So, to use it, you need to swing your arms. When the hyaline cartilage is deformed, the friction is not leveled, which causes severe pain. They are a sign of arthrosis. To reduce the depreciation function, in a normal state that provides softening of the shoulder load, also results in the thinning of the cartilage layer.

Causes of joint damage

The main reason for the development of arthrosis, as mentioned above, is the process of natural wear of the joint. In the state of articulation, heavy physical activities also have a negative impact. For example, for movers, smiths, workers with a jackhammer, miners , the osteoarthrosis of the acromioclavicular joint is often diagnosed. Large and frequent overloads lead to the detection of pathology at a relatively young age. Another, no less important reason for the development of arthrosis is trauma. It is necessary to know that no damage will pass without a trace. All injuries are reflected on the joints, speeding up their destruction. In this regard, experts strongly recommend to pay attention to stretches, fractures and other damages. Necessary conditions for normal recovery are compliance with post-traumatic regimen, correction of loads.

Clinical picture

Damaged acromioclavicular joint does not immediately make itself felt. Symptoms of defeat are as follows:

• Pain in the shoulder.
• Crunching inside the joint.
• Stiffness in the movements of the shoulder.
• Fast fatiguability.

The fact that the initial stage of arthrosis is not accompanied by severe symptoms leads to a later referral to the doctor. Experts recommend not to delay the visit to the clinic. Do not wait for the moment when the acromioclavicular joint will be severely damaged and its restoration will require radical measures.

Stages of the disease

Arthrosis of the joint at the initial stage is accompanied by minor pain in the process of pressing on the clavicle area, as well as during the movement of the shoulders and hands. In some cases, pain can spread to the cervical region. In the second stage, arthrosis is accompanied by more severe symptoms. In particular, the intensity of pain is markedly increased, there are difficulties in the dressing process, the establishment of hands behind the head, back and when crossing them on the chest. In the event that the main provocative factor is injury, when the movement of the shoulder complex can be heard, click or characteristic crunch.

Diagnostics

The success of subsequent therapeutic measures depends on the timeliness of the detection of arthrosis. During the examination, the doctor will not only conduct a visual examination of the problem area. From the conversation with the patient, the specialist finds out whether there were injuries of this zone earlier, how long the patient noticed signs of pathology, what exercises are easy, and which ones are difficult to perform by hands. It is also important to determine the site of localization of pain.

In some cases, a blockade is necessary to clarify the diagnosis. It consists in the introduction of a small amount of lidocaine or other anesthetic into the joint cavity. If there is an inflammatory process after the blockade, there is a cessation of pain. To get a more complete picture of the pathology, a specialist usually prescribes an X-ray study. It allows you to more accurately determine the degree of damage to the joint. Based on the results of the research, appropriate measures are taken to restore the acromioclavicular joint.

Treatment

Therapeutic measures are prescribed in accordance with the degree of affection of the joint. Depending on the neglect of the case, treatment can be aggressive or mild. At the first stage, as a rule, the restoration of the articulation occurs without the use of NSAIDs, corticosteroids and other means used to suppress pain and inflammation. Regardless of the severity of the pathology, it is recommended to take a course of using chondroprotectors. These drugs slowly, but very effectively restore articular cartilage.

In more neglected cases, doctors resort to the use of aggressive therapies. In particular, steroid funds, glucocorticoids (preparations "Diprospan", "Kenalog") are prescribed to reduce the pain syndrome. These medicines also contribute to the elimination of puffiness. With an average severity of symptoms recommend taking NSAIDs and injections. Appointed drugs such as "Voltaren", "Diclofenac", "Ibuprofen", "Xefokam."