Acromioclavicular Joint Problems: Investigating the problem

Physical examination

Mr. Cole will talk to you about your shoulder symptoms and your shoulder's history. He will examine your shoulder and assess your range of movement. He will use a number of diagnostic clinical tests and possibly inject you ACJ to make a diagnosis

X-ray

X-rays can provide excellent pictures of the bones and are a good way of identifying stress fractures, dislocations and bony spurs that have developed as a result of arthritis. X-rays will be done in most cases and are often enough to make a diagnosis along with the clinical signs.

MRI

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It uses a powerful magnet to obtain three dimensional pictures of body structures. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure. It is an excellent way to visualise the ACJ. It will show damage to the cartilage, ligaments, muscles and tendons. It is particularly useful to diagnose osteolysis and damage to the coracoclavicular ligaments after a traumatic injury.