If you’ve suffered an injury to your shoulder at work, you may have injured your acromioclavicular (AC) joint. AC joint injuries can be painful and debilitating, making it difficult to perform daily tasks, let alone continue working. If you’ve sustained this type of injury on the job, it’s critical to understand how serious this injury is and how Illinois workers’ compensation laws can protect you. If you’d like a FREE consultation with a lawyer, give us a call at 312-346-5578. We help everywhere in Illinois. For more information read on.

What is the AC Joint?

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is located at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the highest part of the shoulder blade (acromion). This joint plays a key role in shoulder movement and stability, particularly when lifting, reaching, or pushing. When the AC joint is injured, it can cause pain, limited mobility, and long-term discomfort.

What is an AC Joint Injury?

An AC joint injury occurs when the ligaments at the top of your shoulder become damaged. These injuries can range from mild sprains to complete ligament tears. In severe cases, the collarbone may separate from the shoulder blade, causing a noticeable deformity. Symptoms of an AC joint injury include:

• Shoulder pain and tenderness at the top of the shoulder
• Swelling or bruising
• A visible bump or deformity
• Weakness or difficulty moving the arm

Work Activities and AC Joint Injuries

AC joint injuries are common in professions that involve heavy lifting, repetitive overhead motions, or sudden impacts. Workers at risk include:

• Construction workers – Frequent lifting, carrying heavy materials, and using power tools can strain the AC joint.
• Warehouse workers – Repetitive overhead reaching and lifting heavy boxes can contribute to AC joint injuries.
• Electricians and painters – Constant overhead work increases stress on the AC joint.
• Healthcare workers – Assisting and lifting patients can lead to shoulder strain and injuries.
• Delivery drivers – Repeatedly loading and unloading heavy packages can cause AC joint stress.
• Manual laborers and factory workers – Repetitive motion and physical strain put workers at higher risk of AC joint injuries.

Of course this serious shoulder injury can happen to any worker. We’ve seen it in teachers, secretaries, barristas and others.

How is an AC Joint Injury Diagnosed and Treated?

If you suspect an AC joint injury, a doctor will conduct a physical examination to assess tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be ordered to determine the severity of the injury and rule out fractures or other ailments.

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Common treatments include:

• Rest and ice – To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy – Strengthening exercises to restore mobility and prevent further injury.
• Medication – Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Bracing or taping – To provide support and stability.
• Surgery – In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore shoulder function.

Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for my AC Joint Injury?

If you suffered an AC joint injury at work that is more than a minor strain, it’s important to at least talk a lawyer. Workers’ compensation claims can be complicated, and insurance companies often try to deny or minimize your benefits. This happens even when it appears your case is accepted and they are following the law. Often behind the scenes they are not and are looking for a way to cut your benefits off. An experienced and reputable workers’ compensation lawyer will help ensure you receive proper medical treatment and fair compensation for your medical expenses and your lost wages.

We have been involved in hundreds of AC joint injuries and would love to help you. We promise to treat you like a family member or friend.