AC Joint Sprain Physical Therapy in Ahwatukee & Phoenix, AZ
Expert One-on-One Physical Therapy to Reduce Shoulder Pain and Restore Function
If you're experiencing pain on the top of your shoulder after a fall, collision, or sports injury, you may have an acromioclavicular (AC) joint sprain. At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we provide personalized, one-on-one physical therapy to reduce pain, restore shoulder mobility and strength, and help you safely return to work, sports, and the activities you enjoy.
Every visit is completed one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, ensuring your treatment plan is individualized to your goals and designed to address the root cause of your injury.
Ready to get started? Schedule your evaluation today.
What Is an AC Joint Sprain?
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 helps transfer forces through the shoulder during lifting, pushing, and overhead movements.
An AC joint sprain, often called a shoulder separation, occurs when the ligaments supporting the AC joint are stretched or torn. These injuries commonly occur after falling directly onto the shoulder, bike crashes, football tackles, skiing accidents, or other traumatic injuries.
Most Grade I and Grade II AC joint sprains recover very well with physical therapy, while more severe injuries may require surgical consultation.
Common Symptoms
You may have an AC joint sprain if you experience:
✔ Pain on the top of the shoulder
✔ Tenderness over the AC joint
✔ Pain when reaching overhead
✔ Pain when reaching across your body
✔ Pain lifting heavy objects
✔ Swelling over the top of the shoulder
✔ Visible bump over the collarbone (more severe sprains)
✔ Difficulty with sports, work, or daily activities
Common Causes
AC joint sprains commonly result from:
Falls directly onto the shoulder
Contact sports (football, hockey, rugby)
Cycling accidents
Skiing or snowboarding falls
Motor vehicle accidents
Heavy impacts during recreational activities
Our evaluation determines the severity of your injury and develops a treatment plan that safely restores normal shoulder function.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Your treatment plan at Movewell is customized to reduce pain and restore shoulder function. Treatment may include:
Hands-on Manual Therapy to improve shoulder mobility.
Range of Motion Exercises to restore normal movement.
Rotator Cuff Strengthening to improve shoulder stability.
Scapular Strengthening to optimize shoulder blade mechanics.
Progressive Strengthening Exercises to safely rebuild function.
Activity Modification & Education to protect healing tissues.
Return-to-Sport Progressions for athletes returning to competition.
Our goal is to help you recover quickly while minimizing the risk of lingering pain or future shoulder problems.
Why Choose Movewell?
At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, you'll receive:
100% one-on-one treatment with a Doctor of Physical Therapy
Expert orthopedic and sports rehabilitation
Evidence-based treatment plans
Hands-on manual therapy
Personalized exercise programs
Clear education throughout your recovery
A fun, welcoming environment focused on helping you move your best
Our mission is simple:
Help you move well, reduce pain, and return to the activities you love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an AC joint sprain heal without surgery?
Most AC joint sprains heal successfully with conservative treatment, including physical therapy. Surgery is generally reserved for more severe injuries or persistent instability.
How long does recovery take?
Many mild to moderate AC joint sprains improve within 4 to 8 weeks, although more severe injuries may require additional rehabilitation.
Can I continue exercising?
Many people can continue modified lower-body and cardiovascular exercise while avoiding movements that stress the healing AC joint. Your physical therapist will guide you through a safe progression.
When should I start physical therapy?
Beginning physical therapy early helps restore shoulder mobility, minimize stiffness, and safely rebuild strength throughout the recovery process.
Ready to Get Back to Pain-Free Movement?
An AC joint sprain doesn't have to keep you from working, lifting, or playing the sports you love. At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we'll help you recover with an individualized rehabilitation program designed to get you back to doing what you enjoy.