Repetitive heavy lifting causing compressive forces to the distal end of the clavicle is the MOI for which condition?

Repetitive heavy lifting causing compressive forces to the distal end of the clavicle is the MOI for which condition?

• A. Adhesive capsulitis
• B. AC joint separation
• C. Osteolysis of the clavicle
• D. Anterior impingement

Answer: (C)

Distal clavicular osteolysis is driven by repetitive microtrauma from heavy lifting that subjects the distal end of the clavicle to compressive stress. Over time, this stress causes bone resorption at the distal clavicle near the AC joint, producing focal pain and tenderness at that site, especially with shoulder use. This pattern fits the described MOI best. Adhesive capsulitis involves diffuse shoulder stiffness from capsular tightening rather than a focal distal clavicle issue. An AC joint separation results from acute trauma tearing the AC ligaments with clavicle displacement, not a repetitive compressive loading. Anterior impingement comes from repetitive overhead motion compressing the rotator cuff and subacromial tissues under the acromion, again not specifically due to distal clavicle compression.

Distal clavicular osteolysis is driven by repetitive microtrauma from heavy lifting that subjects the distal end of the clavicle to compressive stress. Over time, this stress causes bone resorption at the distal clavicle near the AC joint, producing focal pain and tenderness at that site, especially with shoulder use. This pattern fits the described MOI best.

Adhesive capsulitis involves diffuse shoulder stiffness from capsular tightening rather than a focal distal clavicle issue. An AC joint separation results from acute trauma tearing the AC ligaments with clavicle displacement, not a repetitive compressive loading. Anterior impingement comes from repetitive overhead motion compressing the rotator cuff and subacromial tissues under the acromion, again not specifically due to distal clavicle compression.