AC joint pain is one of the most common causes of shoulder painespecially in active individuals and weightlifters but it’s often misunderstood and overtreated.

In this episode, Dr. Caleb Davis and Dr. Justin Givens break down the anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment of AC joint pathology, including why imaging alone can be misleading and how to truly identify the pain generator.

They discuss key physical exam findings, the role of diagnostic injections, and how to differentiate AC joint pain from rotator cuff issues, biceps pathology, and even cervical spine conditions.

The episode also covers non-operative treatment strategies, including physical therapy and activity modification, as well as when a distal clavicle excision may be appropriate and why that decision should always be made before entering the operating room.

This is a must-listen for anyone dealing with shoulder pain