My right collarbone came out of the joint last year. It moves around inside and seems to be "snapping" against other bones inside. Very uncomfortable. It is sore, rather than huriing, and will have an audible "click, click, click" as it goes into another position. I'm unable to play golf or do any lifting of any weight. Doctor said it's too dangerous to operate on it as it's over the aorta that could be nicked causing bleed out. I've had pain shots, but it's not helping. I am senior, but very healthy. What can be done? I'm finding it depressing to think of the rest of my life being like this. Any suggestions of how this can be addressed
Hello, guest.
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent discomfort and limited mobility due to your collarbone issue. While it's important to consult with a doctor for personalized advice, here are a few suggestions:
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Seek a second opinion: If you're not satisfied with your current doctor's recommendation, consider seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist. They may have a different perspective or treatment approach that could be beneficial.
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Physical therapy: Consult with a physical therapist who specializes in musculoskeletal conditions. They can assess your collarbone issue, provide exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles, and suggest techniques to improve your range of motion and reduce discomfort. Physical therapy may help stabilize the collarbone and alleviate some of the snapping sensations.
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Supportive measures: Explore options to provide support and stability to the affected area. This may include wearing a shoulder brace or utilizing other assistive devices recommended by your healthcare provider. These measures may help reduce discomfort and prevent further movement of the collarbone.
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Pain management techniques: Work with a pain management specialist or a healthcare provider who can suggest alternative pain management techniques. These may include medications, injections, or non-pharmacological approaches such as acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or heat/cold therapy.
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Lifestyle modifications: Modify your activities to avoid movements or actions that exacerbate your symptoms. This may involve temporarily avoiding certain exercises or movements that strain the affected area. Engage in low-impact activities that are less likely to put stress on your collarbone while you seek treatment options.
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Psychological support: Dealing with chronic pain and limitations can be emotionally challenging. Consider seeking support from a mental health professional or joining a support group to address any feelings of depression, frustration, or anxiety related to your condition. They can provide guidance and strategies to help you cope with these emotions effectively.