Your clavicle is an S-shaped structure connecting the breastbone and your shoulders – i.e., sternum. Cartilage securely joins the collarbone from both ends. If you have pain in the collarbone, you may feel it around the neck as well.
Top 10 Reasons Why You Have Pain in Your Collarbone and Neck
Collarbone discomfort is prevalent for many reasons ranging from an infection to an incorrect sleeping posture. Let’s discuss 10 causes of collarbone and neck pain.
Sleeping Posture
Many people do not pay attention to this, but sleeping in the correct position prevents many issues, such as clavicle pain. Try sleeping on both sides; periodically shift. However, if the pain is persistent, do take OTC painkillers.
Dislocated Bone
Sometimes sudden force does not break off the clavicle completely but easily dislocates it. One of the treatments for this issue is moving the bone back into its initial position. This is done via a non-invasive technique, the procedure is known as closed reduction.
Fractured Bones
The collarbone is fragile and prone to breaks or fractures; therefore, even a blunt force can break it into pieces. Mostly, people who undergo an accident while driving or during sports injure their collarbone.
A sharp stabbing pain in your collarbone that radiates towards the neck is likely an indicator of a fracture. However, there may be other reasons associated, such as tenderness, swelling, stiffed arms, bruises, etc.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis – is a common inflammatory disorder caused due wear and tear of the bone with time. This issue hits any bone, so it naturally also affects the clavicle as well. Stiffness and swelling are the 2 most common signs noticed when it involves pain in the collarbone and neck.
Initial treatment is via medicines such as NSAIDs- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g., ibuprofen or even corticosteroids. But, lifestyle changes are a must as well.
Nerve Pain
The nerves are in the form of meshwork throughout our bodies, so they are naturally found near the clavicle and beneath it too. If the ones present under the collarbone are compressed for any specific reason, they send sharp zaps of pain to it and around the neck area.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Your thoracic cavity lies between the clavicles- your collarbone and the topmost rib. The cavity between them is not empty contains nerves, blood vessels, and muscles. In such a condition – thoracic outlet syndrome, weak shoulder muscles make the collarbone slide down.
Frozen Shoulder
This condition is also called shoulder adhesive capsulitis. The capsule contains a meshwork of connective tissues and blood vessels which is holding the upper arm ball joint to the socket. The shoulders become stiff and immovable in case of adhesion formation.
Shoulder Strains
The shoulder muscle stretches extensively in this condition, resulting in damage that causes pain around the neck and in the collarbone area.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is an infection because of bacteria reaching inside the bone. Some leading factors include open wounds or fractures. If this infection goes towards the collarbone, it causes
swelling, stiffness, and pain
Joint Injury
This joint where the collar bone meets the shoulders commonly suffers from injuries resulting in stiffness, overall discomfort, and pain. The doctors recommend surgery in case of severe injury. However, if the issue is minor, then icing and adequate will suffice.
When To Contact Your Doctor
You should contact the local healthcare setup for immediate medical assistance since a fracture is a state of emergency. If you live in Houston, Texas, reach out to Aqeeq Internal Medicine, call 832 786 8195 for help.