The clavicle is the bone that connects the sternum (breast bone) to the shoulder girdle. The two joints associated with the clavicle are the sternoclavicular joint and the acromioclavicular joint. A sprain or separation of one of the joints may occur with an injury and is often caused by heavy impact to the chest in sports such as martial arts or falling onto the outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder.
Symptoms & Diagnosis: There will be immediate pain, swelling and possibly a lump over the joint involved. The pain can be severe which can restrict shoulder range of movement and the difficulty of raising the arm unassisted. An X-ray may be indicated to investigate the level of the injury and to exclude a clavicle fracture.
Causes: Direct force to the chest and falls onto the shoulder or the outstretched arm can lead to sprains of the associated clavicular joints or bone fracture.
Management: A skilled physiotherapist will assist in the recovery of the injury and return to full function. Physiotherapy will help to reduce the symptoms and alleviate pain.