Collarbone Pain, Acne

Dear Ms. G.,

Sounds like you have had some complex health challenges. Definitely finding a doctor that you have good rapport with and that will follow your case closely is absolutely essential.

It is interesting that there is some growing evidence that low hormones in particular in women can increase the risk of frozen shoulder. So, you may wish to visit with your physician about bio-identical hormones depending on your own personal and family history of hormone related diseases. The muscle twitching accompanied by the urge to squeeze your shoulder may also be related to the collar bone discomfort. Yet, getting some good diagnostic work up is prudent and essential. 

Though there are more tests to be performed than I am mentioning here, these are some basic starting points to consider. First, Salivary Hormone Testing for estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and Cortisol. Also it is essential to get a TSH, Free T4 and Free T3 levels measured and depending on the results and your symptom picture also possibly a reverse T3. Because of your thyroid history, getting an ultrasound of your thyroid because of the discomfort between your collar bones is also important. Also, having the physician examine your thyroid, collar bone region and neck in general is very important. I would also ask if they might measure your vitamin D levels as well.

In terms of the acne, some individuals can get a flare-up of acne when taking excess amounts of iodine relative to their individual body’s need and ability to detoxify bromides and other halides from the body, although this effect is not real common. So, lowering your dose or stopping it with your physician’s guidance to see if the acne clears up is also a consideration. Of course all of these points of discussions, potential tests and wellness matters need to be reviewed by your physician. The tests above are just some potential starting points and are not exhaustive by any means.

We wish you the best in finding a healthy and proactive doctor-patient relationship that will help you sustain the level of wellness you deserve.

The information shared here is educational and is not intended as either diagnosis or treatment. As always, working closely with your personal physician is important.