Differential Diagnosis for AC Ligament Pain
When diagnosing and treating AC ligament pain, it's essential to consider various potential causes. Here's a differential diagnosis organized into categories:
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- AC Joint Sprain or Separation: This is the most common cause of AC ligament pain, resulting from a fall onto the shoulder or a direct blow to the joint. The pain is typically localized to the AC joint and may be accompanied by swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tendinitis or Bursitis of the Shoulder: Inflammation of the tendons or bursae surrounding the shoulder joint can cause pain that radiates to the AC joint.
- Osteoarthritis of the AC Joint: Wear and tear on the joint can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
- Referred Pain from the Cervical Spine: Neck problems, such as herniated discs or cervical spondylosis, can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder and AC joint.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture or Dislocation of the Clavicle or Scapula: A severe injury can cause a fracture or dislocation, leading to significant pain, swelling, and deformity. Missing this diagnosis can result in long-term disability or complications.
- Infection or Septic Arthritis: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, such as joint destruction or sepsis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Rheumatoid Arthritis or Other Autoimmune Disorders: Systemic diseases can cause inflammation and pain in the AC joint, although this is less common.
- Tumors or Cysts: Benign or malignant tumors, such as osteochondromas or synovial sarcomas, can cause pain and swelling in the AC joint, although this is extremely rare.
- Nerve Entrapment or Neuropathy: Compression or damage to the nerves surrounding the AC joint can cause pain, numbness, or tingling, although this is an uncommon cause of AC ligament pain.