Although generally found in active young men, this condition becomes increasingly common in women, as the popularity of bodybuilding and extreme athletics rises (DeFroda et al., 2017).
Function:
Osteolysis of the distal clavicle (ODC), a condition in which the collarbone slowly breaks down and dissolves, causing pain, instability, and reduced mobility and strength.
Common reasons:
ODC occurs in over one-quarter of competitive weightlifters. Current research is showing that the condition is very common in both serious amateur and competitive weightlifters; other reasons described are sequel of trauma associated with contact sports and repetitive overhead activity (DeFroda et al., 2017).
Treatment:
Aside from thorough physical examination, radiographic evaluation is essential in differentiating isolated distal clavicle osteolysis from acromioclavicular joint pathology (DeFroda et al., 2017).
Conservative treatment includes activity regulation and modification of activity level; non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections.
Surgery includes either arthroscopic or open surgery.
References:
DeFroda S.F. et al., 2017, Diagnosis and Management of Distal Clavicle Osteolysis, Orthopedics, 40(2); pp: 119-124
