Distal Clavicle Osteolysis

Distal clavicle osteolysis occurs when the bones of the distal clavicle wear down. Distal clavicle osteolysis was first described in 1936 as a condition secondary to acute shoulder trauma. Today, it is described as a sequela of trauma associated with contact sports, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.

CAUSES

This condition can result from trauma or repetitive usage of ligaments, often associated with heavy weight lifting. This condition is common among weightlifters.

SYMPTOMS

Feeling of excruciating pain in the front of your shoulder -aka, the acromioclavicular joint.
Palpation or pressing of the acromioclavicular joint is painful.
The front of the shoulder has general weakness.
Inability to move shoulder well.
Unable to use the strength of your shoulder, as in lifting weights.
Pain, especially when lying on the affected shoulder.

TREATMENT

As part of the conservative management for this condition, your specialist may also advise you to do a course of physiotherapy. Your physiotherapist will help you properly do your exercises. They teach you good strengthening and conditioning exercises as well.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Steroid/cortisone injection – this treatment will help alleviate shoulder pain and discomfort, although injections are usually avoided if possible. We treat this as our second to the last option before deciding on surgery.
Surgery – As a last option, if all of the above doesn’t seem to help you with your symptoms, then we may proceed with surgery. This surgery is called Distal Clavicle Resection. This procedure may be done arthroscopically to repair and stabilize the affected shoulder.

PREVENTION

Stretching and strengthening are going to be your best defence against frozen shoulder. Even if you don’t have a shoulder problem now, the following stretching and strengthening exercises could save you from a major headache in the future.