eOrthopod

Patient Information Resources

Orthopedic Services
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 409-8000

INFORMATION ABOUT:

Ankle

Elbow

Foot

Fractures

General

Hand

Hip

Knee

Pain Management

Shoulder

Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

Of all things, I've come down with arthritis of the collarbone (where it attaches to the chest). I've never heard of this before. Most of my friends have arthritis of the shoulders, hips, or hands. Am I a rare case?
Not too rare. The most common problem affecting this joint (called the sternoclavicular joint or SCJ) is osteoarthritis. Degenerative changes from aging make this a disease of the older adult. Studies show more than half of all adults age 60 or older have moderate to severe arthritic changes in the SCJ. Part of this may be due to the fact that the SCJ is the only place where the bones attach the arms to the main skeleton. Anyone with a history of manual labor or overuse of the arms is at risk for this condition. Some have painful symptoms, while others do not. Treatment is only needed when pain and loss of motion occur. Surgery is rarely needed. Most patients do well with rest, antiinflammatory drugs, or local steroid injection.
References:

« Back

*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.
	All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.