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Updated: Mar 17, 2026
Measuring 3D In-vivo Shoulder Kinematics using Biplanar Videoradiography
Published on: March 12, 2021
The biomechanical effect of clavicular shortening on shoulder muscle function, a simulation study
Robert J Hillen1, Bart Bolsterlee2, Dirkjan H E J Veeger3
1Waterland Ziekenhuis Purmerend, Waterlandlaan 250, 1441 RN Purmerend, The Netherlands.
Background:
Malunion of the clavicle with shortening after mid shaft fractures can give rise to long-term residual complaints. The cause of these complaints is as yet unclear.
Methods:
In this study we analysed data of an earlier experimental cadaveric study on changes of shoulder biomechanics with progressive shortening of the clavicle. The data was used in a musculoskeletal computer model to examine the effect of clavicle shortening on muscle function, expressed as maximal muscle moments for abduction and internal rotation.
Findings:
Clavicle shortening results in changes of maximal muscle moments around the shoulder girdle. The mean values at 3.6cm of shortening of maximal muscle moment changes are 16% decreased around the sterno-clavicular joint decreased for both ab- and adduction, 37% increased around the acromion-clavicular joint for adduction and 32% decrease for internal rotation around the gleno-humeral joint in resting position.
Interpretation:
Shortening of the clavicle affects muscle function in the shoulder in a computer model. This may explain for the residual complaints after short malunion with shortening.
Level Of Evidence:
Basic Science Study. Biomechanics. Cadaveric data and computer model.
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