How long does physiotherapy take to work for an AC joint injury?

The acromioclavicular joint sits at the top of the shoulder and can be irritated by a fall, collision, or force through the arm. Physiotherapy may first protect the joint and maintain comfortable movement, then build rotator-cuff, shoulder-blade, and arm strength. Pain with cross-body or overhead movement can remain after basic daily tasks feel easier.

Recovery varies with the injury grade, whether the joint is unstable, your work and sport demands, sleep, and how soon strengthening can begin. A visible bump may remain even when function improves.

Attend the assessment so the therapist can check movement, strength, stability, and nearby neck or shoulder problems. Practise the home programme with the recommended frequency and keep exercises within the agreed symptom range. Modify lifting, pushing, and cross-body movements rather than repeatedly provoking the joint.

Use a sling, cold treatment, or pain relief only according to your clinician's instructions. Increase load gradually: comfortable range, endurance, strength, and then task-specific work are different stages.

Arrange reassessment if pain is worsening, the shoulder becomes increasingly weak or unstable, numbness travels down the arm, or progress stops despite following the plan. Seek urgent help after a new injury if the arm is visibly deformed, the hand becomes cold or pale, or severe pain prevents movement.

Ask which movements to avoid, when strengthening can start, and what milestone is needed before lifting or sport. Ask whether the injury needs imaging or an orthopaedic review if pain and instability continue.