In 40 seconds
AC (acromioclavicular) joint sprain is the classic rugby shoulder injury — caused by direct impact onto the point of the shoulder. Grades I–III are managed conservatively; grade IV–VI usually need surgery. PEMF therapy reduces local inflammation and supports ligament healing. Used widely in rugby medical care alongside structured loading.
Quick facts
- Mechanism: Direct impact onto shoulder point
- Grade I–II: Conservative — 2–4 weeks
- Grade III: Conservative — 4–8 weeks
- Grade IV–VI: Surgery typically needed
- PEMF role: Inflammation, ligament healing
Why this injury happens in this sport
Rugby tackles, mauls, and falls onto the shoulder point all stress the AC ligament complex. Modern grading (Rockwood I-VI) guides treatment.
Recovery and return to sport
Conservative grades I–III: PEMF 2–3× per week for 4 weeks alongside controlled mobility and progressive loading. Post-op grades IV–VI: PEMF starts week 1 post-op for swelling and pain.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Will my shoulder bump go away?
Cosmetic step deformity in grade III often persists. Function returns even with the visible step.
Can I bench press again?
Yes — most players return to full pressing strength within 8–12 weeks with proper rehab.
Reinjury risk?
Higher than general population. Strength work and tackling technique reduce reinjury.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.