11 Reasons for Collarbone Pain
11 Reasons Why You Have Pain Your Collarbone
Below are the top reasons explained for having pain in the collarbone.
1. Fracture
Due to fragility, it is prone to fracture and breaks; even a force as blunt as pulling an arm can sometimes cause it to break apart. Mostly, people who suffer from an accident or play sports injure their collarbone.
Pain is usually the marking factor for collarbone fracture. However, there are certainly other factors associated with it, such as swelling, tenderness, stiff arms, and bruising.
If one notices any of the signs, should immediately get an X-ray done to start appropriate treatment.
2. Bone Dislocation
A sudden impact sometimes may not break the clavicle but dislocate it. One of the treatment methods is to move it back into position non-invasively. This procedure is known as closed reduction.
3. Osteoarthritis
It is a type of inflammatory disorder caused by regular wear and tear of the bone. Osteoarthritis can hit any bone, so swelling and stiffness are witnessed when it affects the collarbone.
The treatment plan includes using drugs from NSAIDs, e.g., ibuprofen, corticosteroids, and lifestyle medication. In severe cases, surgery is recommended.
4. Cancer
Rarely, pain in the clavicle is due to the spread of cancer either in the bone itself or in nearby lymph nodes. With pain, it brings along fever, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, and sweating.
5. Nerve Pain
Our nerves are widespread in the body, so naturally are present near and beneath the clavicle too. If due to any reason, the nerves under the collarbone are compressed, they send sharp stinging pain.
6. Heart Issues
Our heart is located in the chest. Certain heart conditions can cause pain in the chest area, radiating to the shoulders, collarbone, and neck.
7. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
The thoracic region is between clavicles, i.e., collar bone and the topmost rib. The space is not void; it contains nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. In this condition, weak muscles on the shoulder may let the collarbone slide downwards, putting pressure on the nerves in the thoracic region, causing pain.
The first line of treatment is physical therapy. However, in severe cases, surgical intervention to remove the highest rib might become necessary.
8. Frozen Shoulder
Often referred to as adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. The capsule has a mesh of connective tissues that hold the ball joint of the upper arm to the socket. the shoulders become tight and immovable in case of adhesion formation or any other damage.
This condition can also happen in people with faulty injury healing, diabetics, or thyroid abnormalities.
9. Shoulder Strain
In this condition, the muscle or tendon in the shoulder stretches afar, causing damage and pain in the collarbone area. It commonly occurs to individuals involved in sports.
10. Osteomyelitis
An infection due to bacteria manifestation in the bone. Fractures or an open wound may lead to this problem. If the infection reaches the collarbone, it causes pain, swelling, and stiffness.
11. Condensing Osteitis
It is one of the rarest conditions that hit the clavicle leading to pain in the collarbone. Condensing osteitis causes inflammation on the inner side of the collarbone, the portion attached with the sternum- the breast bone.
Inflammation is easily treatable with the help of NSAIDs or steroids (anti-inflammatory drugs).
When to See a Doctor?
Pain in the collarbone usually goes away itself without external involvement. However, if it does not resolve within a few days or recurs every other week, please reach out to us at Rheumatology Care of North Houston. Our team of dedicated specialists is here for your aid. Call now to set up an appointment at 832.532.9779