Sternoclavicular SC Joint Pain
The sternoclavicular (SC) joint is one of the four joints that make up the shoulder. The joint is located in the spot where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the sternum (breastbone) at the base of the neck. Problems causing SC joint pain can arise from injury and other disorders such as arthritis.
The ligaments surrounding the SC joint are some of the strongest in the body. Therefore, it takes a great deal of force to cause an injury to this joint. Typically, injuries to the SC joint are caused by some type of high-impact event, such as a car accident, a hard fall, or stress from a contact sport like football. SC joint pain can also develop slowly due to a degenerative condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. This type of change in the joint can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced motion in the shoulder and arm. While SC joint pain due to injuries can be very uncomfortable, most will heal well without needing surgery. Let's explore some of the ways this type of SC joint injury is commonly managed.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative "wear and tear" type of arthritis that occurs most often in people over the age of 50, though it can occur in younger people, too. In OA, the smooth cartilage that covers the SC joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in painful bone rubbing on bone. It can also lead to a bony prominence around the joint. OA develops slowly and the pain and stiffness it causes worsens over time.SC Joint Pain Symptoms
The most common symptom of an SC joint disorder is a pain in the area where the clavicle meets the sternum. This pain will be present with a sprain but will be much sharper in the case of a fracture or dislocation, especially when you try to move your arm.
- Swelling, inflammation, or tenderness around the joint
- A grinding sound when you try to move your arm
- Limited range of motion in the arm
- With an inflammatory condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, you may have simultaneous pain in other joints in your body
How Doctors Manage SC Joint Pain
In most cases, disorders of the SC joint are managed without needing surgery. Nonsurgical approaches your doctor may discuss include: Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are often used to address pain and swelling in the joint. However, pain medications can carry side effects such as liver, stomach, and kidney damage. Steroid Injection. Corticosteroids are injected directly into the joint. These can provide short term temporary relief of pain and inflammation. Immobilization. If you have an injury, your doctor may recommend that you wear a shoulder sling to restrict arm movement. The length of time you will need to wear the sling depends upon the severity of the injury. Activity Modification. Your doctor may recommend that patients with SC joint OA avoid the activities that bring on painful symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding activities that make the joint "pop." Joint Care Supplements. Your doctor may also suggest a joint care supplement as part of your daily routine. Over time, the right supplement may help support everyday joint comfort.How Flexcin Supports Everyday Joint Comfort
The right joint supplement may help support a healthy inflammatory response and everyday joint comfort, and over time it may help support cartilage and joint structure. At Flexcin we have been making all-natural joint care supplements since the year 2000, and have helped thousands of people take a more active role in their joint health. Flexcin formulas are designed for the long haul, with all-natural ingredients chosen to cushion and nourish joints and to support cartilage and joint structure. Flexcin contains a proprietary blend of seven all-natural ingredients that work together to support everyday joint comfort and joint structure: Cetyl Myristoleate (CM8), Glucosamine Sulfate Potassium, MSM, Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II, Bromelain, Vitamin C, and Digestive Enzymes. Many of our customers believe Flexcin is the number one joint supplement on the market for lubricating your joints. Flexcin is proudly made in the USA in an FDA regulated facility. The ingredients are chosen to help lubricate joints, support a healthy inflammatory response, and support cartilage and joint structure. And, we offer it at a no-risk 90-day trial. If you try Flexcin and are unsatisfied with the results after taking it for three months, simply return the empty bottles for a full refund less shipping and handling.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.