The collarbone or clavicle travels in a horizontal manner across the top region of the chest right beneath the neck and out to the shoulder area. You can easily feel it with your fingers. Due to the position of the collarbone and its prominence, it endures substantial pressure while weightlifting. If the individual experiences collarbone pain after lifting weights, it indicates damage to the bone. In case the pain is intense, it is vital to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
What is weightlifter’s shoulder?
The condition is oftentimes known as weightlifter’s shoulder or medically called as distal clavicular osteolysis. This develops over time in which the collarbone develops miniature stress fracture through regular lifting of heavy weights.
Always bear in mind that osteolysis occurs once the small-sized pieces of bone are absorbed into the body which causes the region to degenerate. The indications include an excruciating pain that is felt close to the shoulder after carrying weights or throughout the course of the day.
Strain
Strains on the muscles or ligaments in the neck or shoulder area can trigger pain in and around the collarbone. Muscle strains occur after placing a lot of pressure on the area such as through lifting heavy weights.
It is vital to rest for a few days. This is enough to alleviate the pain and repair the affected muscle. As for ligament strains, they take a longer time to heal with small-sized tears in the tissue that makes it painful to move freely or even lift weights.
Collarbone pain from sternoclavicular joint separation
If the individual lifts heavy weights or abruptly increases the load, he/she can suffer from sternoclavicular joint separation. This occurs when the ligaments attaching the collarbone to the sternum are separated or torn.
Even though this is often linked with direct impact or falls, excessive pressure on the collarbone can trigger the development of the condition. In most cases, there is piercing pain at the upper part of the chest in the region where the collarbone encounters the breastbone. A doctor should be consulted so that pain medications are prescribed along with cold therapy, rest and a sling to be used for several weeks.
Collarbone fracture
A serious cause for collarbone pain after weightlifting is a fracture. There is a lasting, piercing pain around the damaged area of the collarbone if a fracture is present. It is unlikely to break a bone after lifting normal weights with proper technique. Nevertheless, if the individual drops a barbell, falls while lifting or lifts a weight beyond his/her capabilities, the collarbone might break. The damaged region is sore to the touch and might even stick out evidently below the skin. Once a fracture is suspected, bring the individual to the nearest emergency department right away so that an X-ray can be performed.