acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis icd 10

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14-10-2024

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Acromioclavicular Joint Osteoarthritis: Understanding the Condition, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is a crucial part of your shoulder, connecting the collarbone (clavicle) to the shoulder blade (scapula). Osteoarthritis (OA) in this joint, known as acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis (ACJOA), is a degenerative condition characterized by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the bones. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited shoulder movement.

Understanding the ICD-10 Code

The ICD-10 code for ACJOA is M17.1, which stands for Osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of ACJOA is not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Age: As we age, the cartilage in our joints naturally wears down, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Trauma: Injuries to the AC joint, such as a shoulder dislocation or fracture, can damage the cartilage and increase the likelihood of developing OA.
• Repetitive overuse: Activities that involve repetitive overhead movements, such as throwing, swimming, or weightlifting, can place significant stress on the AC joint, leading to wear and tear.
• Genetics: Family history of osteoarthritis can increase the risk of developing the condition.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, including the shoulder.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ACJOA can vary from person to person and may include:

• Pain: Aching, sharp, or stabbing pain in the shoulder, especially with movement or during activities that place stress on the joint.
• Stiffness: Difficulty moving the shoulder, especially in the first morning hours.
• Tenderness: Pain when pressing on the AC joint.
• Swelling: Inflammation around the AC joint.
• Crepitus: A crackling or grinding sensation when moving the shoulder.
• Limited range of motion: Difficulty lifting the arm overhead or reaching behind the back.

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose ACJOA based on a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests.

• Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your shoulder's range of motion, palpate the AC joint for tenderness, and look for signs of swelling or instability.
• X-rays: X-rays can help to visualize the joint space, cartilage, and any bone spurs or other abnormalities.
• MRI: An MRI can provide more detailed images of the soft tissues, including cartilage and tendons, to assess the extent of damage.

Treatment

Treatment for ACJOA aims to relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment options can include:

• Non-surgical:
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers or muscle relaxants.
  • Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, improve range of motion, and reduce pain.
  • Corticosteroid injections: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the AC joint can help to reduce inflammation and pain for a short period.
• Surgical:
  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to remove damaged cartilage, bone spurs, or other debris.
  • AC joint fusion: A procedure to fuse the clavicle and scapula together to stabilize the joint.

Living with ACJOA

While there is no cure for ACJOA, there are ways to manage the condition and improve your quality of life:

• Maintain a healthy weight: This can reduce stress on the joint.
• Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms: Modify your activities to avoid movements that cause pain.
• Regular exercise: Engage in low-impact exercises, such as swimming, cycling, or walking, to maintain muscle strength and flexibility.
• Use assistive devices: Consider using a sling or other assistive devices to support your shoulder during activities.

Note: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. If you suspect you have ACJOA, consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

• Sciencedirect:
  • "Acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis: a review." https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003591571500058X
  • "Treatment of acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis." https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003591571500233X

This article has been written to provide you with helpful information. It is crucial to consult a medical professional for personalized advice and treatment.