Manipulative reduction and management of anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation

To discuss the management of a patient suffering from an anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation secondary to blunt trauma from a motor vehicle accident.

A 75-yr-old woman suffered from difficulty in swallowing and chest pain after release from a foreign medical facility. Anteroposterior chest X-rays demonstrated an anterior and superior displacement of the right sternoclavicular joint.

Specific joint manipulation for reduction of the dislocation was performed. Immobilization of the joint after reduction was accomplished by a reverse figure-8 bandage. Follow-up radiographic evaluation demonstrated reduction of the dislocation. Resolution of difficulty in swallowing and pain was dramatic and instantaneous after reduction.

Appropriate intervention of chiropractic examination procedures and imaging techniques culminated in successful resolution of this case. When such cases are recognized, appropriate management may occur conservatively with judicious application of joint manipulation and adjunctive procedures.