Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 8/17/2007

Question
Hi! I don't have any injuries or pain within my shoulders but i have a big cosmetic problem. My shoulders are very narrow and they form a slope downside. I'm actually not a very small man my body height is 180cm but somehow my shoulder bones are underdeveloped. I tried bodybuilding and swimming to make shoulders broader with no succes since the problem is caused by bone structure. I'm 22 years old male so it is impossible to make my bones grow naturally. My question is: Is it possible to enlarge clavicles with a bone growing method(like ilizarov) or is there any hormone treatment, or any other solution for this case? I'm ready to try anything no matter it is risky or expensive.This problem has ruined my self confidence since 2 years. I'm very happy if you inform me. Thank you

Answer
Hi Vincent,
I happen to know intimately what an ilizarov fixator feels like, I had to wear one for a year from a horrendous left tibial fracture. Once the growth plates are fused, there is no drug or procedure to enlarge them except chronic stress. Loading the bone with repetitive weight lifting will not only enlarge bone but hide deficiencies in size. I recommend OTC hormone supplements, creatine and heavy lifting and short reps for bulk. Combining this with high protein diet should mask any frailties perceived or otherwise.

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Thank you for your question Vincent and good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com