The acromioclavicular joint, or AC joint, is the small joint on the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. It often becomes painful after a fall onto the shoulder, or through wear in people who lift, press or do a lot of overhead work. Many people improve with rest from aggravating movements and a guided exercise programme, and some go on to need an injection. At The London PRP Clinic, ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750, after a £150 doctor's consultation.
Reviewed by the medical team at The Wellness. Last updated 14 November 2026.
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Key points
AC joint pain is felt on the top of the shoulder, often when reaching across the body.
Exercise, activity changes and time help many people.
Evidence for PRP in the AC joint is limited, and your doctor will explain this honestly.
The joint is small, so the injection is guided by ultrasound.
Ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750 after a £150 consultation.
How do I know the pain is from the AC joint?
AC joint pain is usually felt right on the top of the shoulder, at a point you can often press with one finger. It tends to hurt when you reach across your body, lie on that side, do bench press or push-ups, or lift your arm high overhead. A bump over the joint is common after an old injury or with wear.
Pain from the rotator cuff, the neck or a frozen shoulder can feel similar, so an examination matters before any treatment is chosen.
What helps first?
Easing off the movements that provoke it, such as heavy pressing, dips and sleeping on that side
A physiotherapy programme to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder blade
Simple pain relief where it suits you, after checking it is safe with your other medicines
Time, because many AC joint strains settle over several weeks
Where does PRP fit?
When pain persists despite these steps, an injection into the joint may be considered. A steroid injection is the most commonly used option and can give good short-term relief. PRP is sometimes chosen by people who want to avoid repeated steroid, or whose pain has returned after one. The research on PRP for the AC joint is small, so it is offered as a reasonable option for some people rather than a proven cure, and your doctor will say so plainly.
What does the doctor's assessment include?
An examination of the shoulder and neck, to find the true source of the pain
A review of any previous scans, or advice on whether imaging would help
A discussion of your work, sport and training, and what you want to get back to
A check of your health and medicines, including blood thinners
A clear plan, which may be exercise alone, an injection, or a surgical opinion
How is it given, and what does it cost?
A small blood sample is spun to concentrate the platelets. The AC joint is narrow, so the injection is placed under ultrasound guidance. The consultation is £150, and ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750 for one visit.
What happens afterwards?
The top of the shoulder may ache for a few days. You will be asked to avoid heavy pressing and overhead lifting for a short time, then to return to your exercises gradually. Your doctor will review how you are doing over the following weeks.
How do I arrange a consultation?
Send us a message on WhatsApp and we will offer you the earliest appointment with one of our doctors at our clinics in Marylebone or Belgravia. At your first visit the doctor assesses you and agrees a plan with you before any treatment, so you know exactly what is recommended, why, and what it will cost.
After each session you receive clear aftercare advice in writing, and our team books your reviews and any further sessions, so your plan stays on track without you having to chase it.
Frequently asked questions
Is AC joint pain the same as a rotator cuff problem?
No, although they can feel alike. An examination helps tell them apart, and the treatment differs.
Can I keep going to the gym?
Usually yes, with changes. Most people can train their legs and lower body while easing off pressing movements.
How much is PRP for the AC joint?
Ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750 at The London PRP Clinic, after a £150 consultation.
How long does it take to work?
Any benefit tends to build over several weeks rather than days.
Will I need surgery?
Most people do not. A surgical opinion is considered when pain persists despite good treatment, and your doctor can arrange one.
The London PRP Clinic is part of The Wellness, a doctor-led private healthcare group with clinics at 10 Portman Square, Marylebone, and 9 Eccleston Street, Belgravia. All treatments are carried out by GMC-registered doctors after a consultation and clinical assessment. Results vary from person to person and no outcome can be guaranteed. This article is general information and not a substitute for medical advice about your own health.
Message us on WhatsApp on +44 7961 280835 (ref PRP-prp-for-ac-joint-pain) and we will arrange your appointment.
Sources
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