1. Dislocation of the Sternoclavicular Joint
Ligaments connect the clavicle, or the collar bone, to the sternum, or the breastbone. This connection makes up the only attachment for the arm bones to the main part of the skeleton. Only a small portion of the clavicle contacts the sternum, yet sternoclavicular (SC) injuries occur infrequently. Dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint causes serious pain that intensifies anytime the arms move. If the clavicle moves forward of the sternum, a bump shows in that area of the chest. If it moves behind the sternum, you can experience shortness of breath or have a difficult time breathing. You may also experience difficulty swallowing or tightness in your throat.
2. Levels of Sternoclavicular Joint Sprains
A sprain of the sternoclavicular joint causes no instability in the joint if the sprain is mild. In a moderate sprain, the SC joint becomes unstable. Sprains of the SC joint fall in to one of three categories. The first results from small tears in the ligaments in the joint and causes minimal swelling and tenderness at the outermost point of the collarbone. The second level of an SC joint sprain results in torn ligaments but stays attached by ligaments running from the clavicle to the ribs, and causes pain during arm movement. In the third level of an SC joint sprain, the joint separates and causes displacement of the clavicle. This sprain causes severe pain during arm movement or physical examination.
3. Ligament Injury Is Painful
Injury to the ligaments surrounding the sternoclavicular joint causes pain associated with a popping, grating or clicking feeling. The intra-articular disc ligament divides the joint in two pieces and attaches to the first rib. Damage to this ligament causes difficulty in movement of the SC joint and pain in the area. Three other ligaments help hold the SC joint securely in place. These include the capsular ligament, the interclavicular ligament and the costoclavicular ligament. The capsular ligament prevents the end of the clavicle that attaches to the sternum from lifting when the outside end of the clavicle moves. The interclavicular ligament attaches the two clavicles to each other, and the costoclavicular ligament helps keep the SC joint steady.
4. Take Note of Joint Pain
Breakdown of the cartilage between the clavicle and the sternum results in osteoarthritis in the sternoclavicular joint after an injury. Joint stiffness and pain accompany osteoarthritis and it tends to worsen with age.
