The sternoclavicular (SC) joint is the pivot on which the shoulder moves on the sternum. It is located at the junction of the collar bone and the breast bone. Injuries at this joint can be from a mild sprain to a dislocation. This is one of the strongest ligaments in the body so when there's an injury, it was due to a high-impact event.
Sternoclavicular Joint Sprain:
Sternoclavicular (SC) Joint sprains results from a compression or tension on the SC ligament. Injuries are rare but can occur from a single episode with a lot of force or from a repetitive overload over time.
Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocation:
When there is a dislocation they can be classified as:
Anterior - This is when the clavicle is pushed out further than the sternum.
Posterior - This is when the clavicle is pushed backwards behind the sternum.
- Requires urgent medical attention
- Damage to important structures located behind the sternoclavicular joint (arteries, veins, nerves, esophagus, trachea) can cause difficulty breathing and swallowing, poor circulation to the arm and hand, and nerve damage.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness of the joint
- Decreased range of motion
Causes
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Collision sports such as football
- Strong blow to the shoulder (rarely)
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
Diagnosis
- Physician Exam
- X-ray
- CT Scan
Treatment
Nonsurgical
- Medications; NSAIDs
- Immobilization in a sling
- Modifying activities
- Closed Reduction
Surgical
- Open reduction
