Have you ever noticed a small bump where your collarbone meets the center of your chest? That bump is your sternoclavicular (SC) joint — a tiny but mighty joint that plays a huge role in how your shoulder moves.
The SC joint sits right where your clavicle (collarbone) connects with your sternum. It’s a saddle-type synovial joint, which means it allows a small but important range of motion in multiple directions. Without it, your shoulders wouldn’t have the freedom to lift, rotate, and move the way they do.
Why Does the SC Joint Hurt?
Pain in this joint isn’t uncommon. A sudden fall, a blow to the shoulder, or repetitive stress (like heavy lifting or certain sports) can strain or injure the ligaments that hold the SC joint in place. These ligaments include:
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Anterior Sternoclavicular Ligament — keeps the clavicle stable in the front.
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Posterior Sternoclavicular Ligament — stabilizes the back of the joint.
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Interclavicular Ligament — connects both collarbones across the top of the sternum.
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Costoclavicular Ligament — anchors the clavicle down to the first rib and its cartilage.
When these ligaments get irritated or overstretched, you might feel pain, tenderness, or notice swelling at the joint. Sometimes, the collarbone can shift slightly forward — causing the bump to look more prominent.
Arthritis and the SC Joint
Over time, arthritic changes can also affect the SC joint. Just like your knees or hips, this joint can develop osteoarthritis, leading to extra bony growths that make the bump appear larger. Arthritis here can cause pain, stiffness, and limited shoulder movement if left unaddressed.
How a Chiropractor Can Help
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or a visible bump at your SC joint, don’t ignore it. A trusted Chiropractor in Jupiter, FL, trained in Sports Chiropractic, can help identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan. Many athletes and active patients in Palm Beach seek Sports Chiropractic care to keep their shoulders moving properly and avoid long-term problems.
Early care, proper joint alignment, and targeted exercises can make all the difference. Keeping the muscles around your shoulder and upper chest strong and flexible helps your SC joint stay healthy for the long run.
Looking for expert help in Jupiter, FL or the Palm Beach area? Follow along and connect with a Sports Chiropractor who can guide you through simple, effective exercises to keep your SC joint and shoulders moving pain-free!
Dr. Steve Muscari
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