frequent procedures
 

ACROMIOCLAVICULAR (AC) JOINT INJECTION
Acromioclavicular joint injection is used for treating acromioclavicular joint mediated pain. This could be from different etiologies including the following:

• Acromioclavicular joint strain.
• Acromioclavicular joint arthritis.
• Acromioclavicular joint displacement or dislocation of different grades.

The actual procedure involves placing a tiny needle into the acromioclavicular joint after local anesthesia has been used to numb the skin. Following this placement, usually done with the patient in a sitting position, the patient receives approximately 1 cc of local anesthetic, possibly 1% lidocaine mixed with a small amount of Depo steroid for anti-inflammatory effect and healing. The patient then undergoes joint mobilization, physical therapy exercises provided over the next several weeks with home exercise program as well.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Anticoagulation as with Coumadin or heparin or allergy to any of the medications used in the injection. These procedures usually do not require x-ray guidance but in some difficult rare cases, x-ray guidance may be used, in which case pregnancy will become a contraindication.

COMPLICATIONS: Other than infection, there are no significant complications in this procedure.

SEDATIVES: Sedatives are usually not required as the procedure is quick and brief and usually not painful. Patients are also allowed to continue their routine medications on the date of this procedure.

 

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