In this enlightening episode of Glenohumeral Gurus, host Dr Margie Olds sits down with Dr Angela Cadogan, a specialist physiotherapist from Christchurch, New Zealand, to delve into the often-overlooked world of acromioclavicular (AC) joint pathology. Dr Cadogan, with her extensive background in sports physiotherapy and a PhD focused on shoulder diagnostics, shares her wealth of experience and insights on why the AC joint is aptly nicknamed "The Great Pretender" in shoulder pathology.

Key Takeaways:• AC joint problems are surprisingly common, affecting up to 17% of patients in specialist settings, yet are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked.• Pain from AC joint conditions can refer to distant areas, such as the neck or axilla, often leading to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatments.• Imaging reports may underreport AC joint abnormalities, emphasising the importance of clinicians reviewing images themselves and correlating findings with clinical presentation.• Diagnosis of AC joint issues involves excluding other conditions, assessing end-range pain in specific movements, and using targeted special tests as secondary confirmation.

This episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge for physiotherapists and clinicians dealing with shoulder pathologies. Dr Cadogan's expertise sheds light on the nuances of AC joint diagnosis, including the pitfalls of relying solely on imaging reports and the importance of clinical correlation. Listeners will gain valuable insights into recognising AC joint issues that may have previously eluded them, potentially transforming their approach to shoulder assessments and treatments. Whether you're a seasoned specialist or a budding clinician, this episode promises to sharpen your diagnostic skills and enhance your understanding of this crucial yet often misunderstood joint.
For more information about Angela's projects, check out the following:
Shoulder Academy link: www.shoulderacademy.co.nz - The ACJ Q&A is 24th October, 2024 Online Courses (ACJ and SCJ): https://learning.physioacademy.course...

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