What causes pain in the clavicle and shoulder area?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Clavicle and shoulder pain is often caused by joint conditions such as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. These conditions occur when cartilage wears down over time, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort in the shoulder and collarbone region.

Because shoulder pain can stem from many causes—ranging from minor strain to serious joint deterioration—understanding your symptoms early is key to getting the right care. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what's behind your pain and confidently plan your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover cause of your clavicle pain Learn if shoulder pain needs care Find out what’s causing clavicle discomfort See OTC options for shoulder pain Find shoulder pain doctor nearby Understand home remedies for clavicle pain Check if collarbone pain needs treatment

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Explanation

Pain in the clavicle and shoulder area is often related to issues with joints, such as the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, which connects the collarbone to the shoulder blade.

Causes of Pain:

Degenerative Joint Disease: This condition, also known as arthritis, can affect the AC joint, leading to pain and discomfort. As the cartilage wears down, bones may rub against each other, causing pain.
Osteoarthritis: This is a common form of arthritis, associated with aging, that can also affect the AC joint. It involves the breakdown of cartilage and can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced movement.

Both conditions can cause pain when moving the shoulder or lifting objects. If you're experiencing these symptoms, you can check your symptoms online to better understand what might be causing your discomfort and help prepare for your healthcare visit.

(References)

Mall NA, Foley E, Chalmers PN, Cole BJ, Romeo AA, & Bach BR Jr. (2013). Degenerative joint disease of the acromioclavicular joint. The American journal of sports medicine, 23649008.
Menge TJ, Boykin RE, Bushnell BD, & Byram IR. (2014). Acromioclavicular osteoarthritis: a common cause of .... Southern medical journal, 24937735.
Murphy RJ, & Carr AJ. (2010). Shoulder pain. BMJ clinical evidence, 21418673.

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