Broken collarbone rehab. Collarbone Fracture Rehabilitation: Comprehensive Guide to Exercises and Recovery

26.09.202303.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are effective exercises for collarbone fracture rehabilitation. How long does recovery from a broken collarbone typically take. What precautions should be taken during collarbone fracture rehab.

Содержание

Understanding Collarbone Fractures and the Importance of Rehabilitation

A collarbone fracture, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury that can significantly impact shoulder function and mobility. Proper rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery and to prevent long-term complications. This comprehensive guide explores various exercises and techniques to help you regain strength and flexibility after a collarbone fracture.

Essential Exercises for Collarbone Fracture Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation exercises play a vital role in the recovery process following a collarbone fracture. These exercises are designed to improve range of motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, and promote proper healing. Here are some key exercises recommended by healthcare professionals:

1. Shoulder Blade Squeeze

This exercise helps improve posture and strengthen the muscles between your shoulder blades:

Stand with your arms at your sides
Squeeze your shoulder blades together
Hold for 6 seconds
Repeat 8 to 12 times

Can shoulder blade squeezes help improve overall shoulder stability? Yes, these exercises strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder joint, promoting better posture and reducing the risk of future injuries.

2. Wall Angels

Wall angels are excellent for improving shoulder mobility and strength:

Stand with your back against a wall
Raise your hands above your head
Bend your elbows and lower your arms while squeezing your shoulder blades together
Repeat 8 to 12 times

Do wall angels help improve shoulder flexibility? Indeed, this exercise targets multiple muscle groups in the shoulders and upper back, promoting increased range of motion and flexibility.

3. Shoulder Flexion (Lying Down)

This exercise helps improve shoulder mobility using a wand or similar object:

Lie on your back, holding a wand with both hands
Keep elbows straight and slowly raise your arms over your head
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds
Repeat 2 to 4 times

Is it normal to feel a stretch during shoulder flexion exercises? Yes, a mild stretch in the shoulders, upper back, and chest is normal and beneficial for improving flexibility.

4. Chest Stretch (Lying Down)

This stretch targets the chest muscles and improves shoulder mobility:

Lie on your back with elbows bent and arms out to your sides
Raise your hands above your head until you feel a stretch in your chest
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds
Repeat 2 to 4 times

Advanced Rehabilitation Exercises for Collarbone Fractures

As your recovery progresses, your healthcare provider may recommend more advanced exercises to further improve strength and mobility:

1. Wand Exercise – Flexion

This exercise helps improve shoulder flexion:

Stand upright and hold a stick in both hands, palms down
Lift your arms over your head, keeping them straight
Hold for 5 seconds and return to the starting position
Repeat 10 times

2. Wand Exercise – Extension

This exercise targets the posterior shoulder muscles:

Stand upright and hold a stick behind your back with both hands
Move the stick away from your back
Hold for 5 seconds and return to the starting position
Repeat 10 times

3. Wand Exercise – External Rotation

This exercise improves external rotation of the shoulder:

Lie on your back, holding a stick in both hands with palms up
Keep upper arms on the floor with elbows bent at 90 degrees
Use your uninjured arm to push the injured arm away from your body
Hold the stretch for 5 seconds
Repeat 10 times

The Role of Physical Therapy in Collarbone Fracture Rehabilitation

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after a collarbone fracture. A skilled physical therapist can provide personalized guidance and monitor your progress throughout rehabilitation. They may use various techniques, including:

Manual therapy to improve joint mobility
Targeted exercises to address specific weaknesses
Pain management techniques
Education on proper posture and body mechanics

How often should you attend physical therapy sessions during collarbone fracture rehabilitation? The frequency of sessions can vary depending on individual needs and the stage of recovery, but typically, patients may attend 2-3 sessions per week initially, gradually decreasing as they progress.

Precautions and Safety Measures During Collarbone Fracture Rehabilitation

While rehabilitation exercises are essential for recovery, it’s crucial to take proper precautions to avoid re-injury or complications:

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions
Start exercises slowly and gradually increase intensity
Stop if you experience sharp pain or discomfort
Avoid lifting heavy objects until cleared by your doctor
Wear appropriate support or bracing as recommended

When is it safe to return to normal activities after a collarbone fracture? The timeline for returning to normal activities varies depending on the severity of the fracture and individual healing rates. Generally, it may take 6-12 weeks for the bone to heal, with full recovery potentially taking several months.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Factors in Collarbone Fracture Recovery

Proper nutrition and lifestyle choices can significantly impact the healing process after a collarbone fracture. Consider the following factors:

1. Calcium and Vitamin D

Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is crucial for bone healing:

Consume calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods
Ensure sufficient vitamin D through sunlight exposure or supplements as recommended by your doctor

2. Protein Intake

Protein is essential for tissue repair and muscle maintenance during recovery:

Include lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based protein sources in your diet
Consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations

3. Smoking Cessation

Smoking can negatively impact bone healing:

If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing consumption during recovery
Seek support from your healthcare provider for smoking cessation strategies

Managing Pain and Discomfort During Collarbone Fracture Rehabilitation

Pain management is an important aspect of the rehabilitation process. Here are some strategies to help manage pain and discomfort:

1. Ice Therapy

Applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling:

Apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day
Use a cloth barrier between the ice and skin to prevent tissue damage

2. Pain Medication

Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be recommended:

Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency
Be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications

3. Proper Positioning

Maintaining proper positioning can help alleviate discomfort:

Use pillows to support your arm while sleeping or resting
Avoid positions that put unnecessary stress on the injured area

Is it normal to experience some discomfort during rehabilitation exercises? Mild discomfort during exercises is common, but sharp or severe pain should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting the Rehabilitation Plan

Regular assessment of your progress is crucial for a successful recovery. Your healthcare provider or physical therapist will monitor your progress and may adjust your rehabilitation plan accordingly. Factors they may consider include:

Range of motion improvements
Pain levels and management
Strength gains
Functional ability in daily activities

How often should progress be assessed during collarbone fracture rehabilitation? Progress should be assessed regularly, typically every few weeks or as recommended by your healthcare provider. These assessments help ensure that your rehabilitation plan remains appropriate and effective throughout your recovery.

Long-Term Considerations and Preventing Future Injuries

As you near the end of your rehabilitation journey, it’s important to consider long-term strategies for maintaining shoulder health and preventing future injuries:

1. Ongoing Exercise Routine

Continuing with a modified exercise routine can help maintain strength and flexibility:

Incorporate shoulder-strengthening exercises into your regular workout routine
Focus on maintaining good posture and shoulder alignment

2. Ergonomic Considerations

Proper ergonomics can help prevent future shoulder issues:

Ensure your workspace is ergonomically optimized
Be mindful of posture during daily activities

3. Regular Check-ups

Periodic assessments can help identify and address any lingering issues:

Schedule follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider as recommended
Seek medical attention promptly if you experience any new or worsening symptoms

Can collarbone fractures lead to long-term complications if not properly rehabilitated? Yes, inadequate rehabilitation can potentially lead to chronic pain, limited range of motion, and increased risk of future injuries. This underscores the importance of following a comprehensive rehabilitation program under professional guidance.

In conclusion, recovering from a collarbone fracture requires patience, dedication, and a well-structured rehabilitation program. By following the exercises and guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, and working closely with your healthcare team, you can optimize your recovery and regain full shoulder function. Remember to listen to your body, progress gradually, and maintain open communication with your healthcare providers throughout the rehabilitation process.

Collarbone Fracture: Rehab Exercises | Kaiser Permanente

Skip Navigation

Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Shoulder blade squeeze

slide 1 of 4

slide 1 of 4, Shoulder blade squeeze,

While standing with your arms at your sides, squeeze your shoulder blades together. Do not raise your shoulders up as you are squeezing.
Hold 6 seconds.
Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Wall angels

slide 2 of 4

slide 2 of 4, Wall angels,

Start this exercise with your back against a wall and your hands raised above your head.
Keeping your arms against the wall, bend your elbows and slowly lower your arms while squeezing your shoulder blades together.
Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Shoulder flexion (lying down)

slide 3 of 4

slide 3 of 4, Shoulder flexion (lying down),

To make a wand for this exercise, use a piece of PVC pipe or a broom handle with the broom removed. Make the wand about a foot wider than your shoulders.

Lie on your back, holding a wand with both hands. Your palms should face down as you hold the wand.
Keep your elbows straight, and slowly raise your arms over your head until you feel a stretch in your shoulders, upper back, and chest.
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Chest stretch (lying down)

slide 4 of 4

slide 4 of 4, Chest stretch (lying down),

Lie on your back with your elbows bent. Your arms should be out to your sides, and your arms and elbows should be resting on the surface you are lying on, such as the floor.
Raise your hands above your head until you feel a stretch in your chest.
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Collarbone Fracture Exercises – Tufts Medical Center Community Care

Health Advisors

Acute Care
Adult
Medication
Pediatric

Your healthcare provider may recommend exercises to help you heal. Talk to your healthcare provider or physical therapist about which exercises will best help you and how to do them correctly and safely.

Wand exercise, flexion: Stand upright and hold a stick in both hands, palms down. Stretch your arms by lifting them over your head, keeping your arms straight. Hold for 5 seconds and return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Wand exercise, extension: Stand upright and hold a stick in both hands behind your back. Move the stick away from your back. Hold this position for 5 seconds. Relax and return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Wand exercise, external rotation: Lie on your back and hold a stick in both hands, palms up. Your upper arms should be resting on the floor with your elbows at your sides and bent 90 degrees. Use your uninjured arm to push your injured arm out away from your body. Keep the elbow of your injured arm at your side while it is being pushed. Hold the stretch for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
Wand exercise, internal rotation: Stand with your uninjured arm behind your head holding the end of a stick. Put your injured arm behind your back at your waist and grab the stick. Pull the stick up behind your back by straightening the elbow of your uninjured arm and bending the elbow of your injured arm. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then go back to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Wand exercise, shoulder abduction and adduction: Stand and hold a stick with both hands, palms facing away from your body. Rest the stick against the front of your thighs. Use your uninjured arm to push your injured arm out to the side and up as high as possible. Keep your arms straight. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
Wand exercise, horizontal abduction and adduction: Stand and hold a stick in both hands. Stretch your arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height. Keeping your arms straight, swing the stick to one side. Feel the stretch and hold for 5 seconds. Then swing the stick to the other side, feel the stretch, and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
Shoulder flexion: Stand with your arms hanging down at your sides. Keep your arms straight and lift them in front of you and up over your head as far as you can reach. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then bring your arms back down in front of you and to your sides. Do 2 sets of 15.
Shoulder abduction: Stand with your arms at your sides. Bring your arms up, out to the side, and toward the ceiling. Hold for 5 seconds. Return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Horizontal shoulder abduction: Stand with your arms held straight out in front of you at shoulder height. Pull your arms apart and out to the sides as far as possible. Hold your arms back for 5 seconds, then bring them back together in front of you. Repeat 10 times. Remember to keep your arms at shoulder height throughout the exercise.
Shoulder extension: Stand with your arms at your sides. Move the arm on your injured side back, keeping the arm straight. Hold this position for 5 seconds. Return to the starting position and repeat 10 times.
Scapular active range of motion: Stand and shrug your shoulders up and hold for 5 seconds. Then squeeze your shoulder blades back and together and hold 5 seconds. Next, pull your shoulder blades downward as if putting them in your back pocket. Relax. Repeat this sequence 10 times.
Side-lying horizontal abduction: Lie on your uninjured side with the arm on your injured side relaxed across your chest. Slowly bring this arm up off the floor so that your hand is pointing toward the ceiling. Keep your arm straight as you do this. Do 2 sets of 15. Hold a weight in your hand as the exercise becomes easier.
Prone shoulder extension: Lie on your stomach on a table or the edge of a bed with the arm on your injured side hanging down over the edge. Slowly lift your arm straight back and toward the ceiling. Do not bend your elbow. Return to the starting position. Do 2 sets of 15. As this becomes easier, hold a weight in your hand.
Single-arm shoulder abduction: Stand with your arms at your sides, your palms resting against your sides. Lift the arm on your injured side out to the side and toward the ceiling. Keep your arm straight. Hold the position for 5 seconds and then bring your arm back to your side. Repeat 10 times. Add a weight to your hand as the exercise gets easier.
Resisted shoulder internal rotation: Stand sideways next to a door with your injured arm closest to the door. Tie a knot in the end of the tubing and shut the knot in the door at waist level. Hold the other end of the tubing with the hand of your injured arm. Bend the elbow of your injured arm 90 degrees. Keeping your elbow in at your side, rotate your forearm across your body and then slowly back to the starting position. Make sure you keep your forearm parallel to the floor. Do 2 sets of 8 to 12.
Resisted shoulder flexion: Holding tubing connected to a door knob at waist level, face away from the door, keep your elbow straight and pull your arm forward. Do 2 sets of 15.
Resisted shoulder extension: Stand facing a door. Tie a knot in the end of the tubing and shut the knot in the door at shoulder height. Use the hand on your injured side to hold the tubing at shoulder height. Pull your arm back, keeping your arm straight. Do 2 sets of 15.
Resisted shoulder external rotation: Stand sideways next to a door with your injured arm farther from the door. Tie a knot in the end of the tubing and shut the knot in the door at waist level. Hold the other end of the tubing with the hand of your injured arm. Rest the hand of your injured arm across your stomach. Keeping your elbow in at your side, rotate your arm outward and away from your waist. Slowly return your arm to the starting position. Make sure you keep your elbow bent 90 degrees and your forearm parallel to the floor. Repeat 10 times. Build up to 2 sets of 15.

Developed by RelayHealth.

Adult Advisor 2015.1 published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2014-06-09
Last reviewed: 2014-05-07

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

Rehabilitation after fractures in children

Features of the children’s skeletal system such as good bone elasticity, periosteum elasticity, developed soft tissues help reduce the likelihood of fractures. However, these factors can be contrasted with the high activity of children, participation in outdoor games and the desire to explore everything around.

It is for this reason that fractures in children are quite common. According to statistics, the most common damage to the bones of the forearm, lower leg and collarbone.

Initial consultation with a rehabilitation specialist

Peculiarities of fractures in children

It is known that in children there are those types of fractures that are not typical for adults. This fact is due to certain features of the anatomy and physiology of the children’s skeletal system. In particular, compared with adults, children have more water and organic substances in the bone tissue, but at the same time, the content of mineral salts is reduced. In addition, children have so-called bone growth zones, which are located between the epiphyses and diaphyses of tubular bones. The periosteum, which is thick and elastic, takes part in the transverse growth of bones.

Among the fractures that are typical for childhood, we can note:

Fracture of the “green line” type. In this case, the bone is not completely damaged, and one of its sides remains intact and is “held” by the intact periosteum;
Epiphysiolysis – separation along the growth zone of the extra-articular “protrusion” of the bone – the apophysis, to which the muscles are attached;
A subperiosteal fracture is characterized by a break in the integrity of the bones, but the periosteum remains intact and covers the broken bone;
Tears along the cartilage growth line. Depending on the localization, epiphysiolysis, osteoepizeolisis and metaepiphyseolysis are distinguished.

Another feature of the children’s skeletal system is a faster metabolism, due to which the processes of bone tissue renewal are accelerated and, as a result, the healing of fractures is accelerated. Also, this feature eliminates the formation of false joints and allows you to perform reposition (recovery) of bones without surgical intervention.

How is recovery after fractures in children

The duration and volume of rehabilitation measures depend on many factors, of which the severity of the injury is of primary importance. For example, with an uncomplicated fracture of the radius, the rehabilitation process will be relatively simple, but with a serious injury to the spine, a lot of effort will have to be made to restore lost skills and functions. Difficulties can arise with injuries such as fractures, dislocations and intra-articular fractures, since in this case joint fusion may develop with subsequent limitation of its mobility.

The child’s age, general health, nutritional habits, etc. have a certain influence on the rehabilitation process. In general, three main periods are distinguished in the recovery period – the immobilization period, post-immobilization and recovery period.

Ergotherapy

Bobath therapy

Thermoplastic orthoses

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Amplipulse (SMT therapy)

electrophoresis

Myostimulation (electrostimulation)

Features of rehabilitation during the immobilization period

This period begins from the moment the operation is completed and continues until the fracture is consolidated or a scar is formed. During this time, it is necessary to create optimal conditions that will help the recovery process to proceed correctly. One of the main methods of rehabilitation in the period of immobilization is physical therapy, which involves the use of the following exercises:

Ideomotor exercises. Their essence lies in the mental representation of movements in the area of the damaged limb;
Exercises for those muscle groups that are not involved in immobilization;
Static exercises of the immobilized limb.

Therapeutic exercise helps reduce the risk of developing secondary disorders, maintain muscle tone and strength, achieve proper positioning, and improve tissue nutrition.

How rehabilitation is carried out in the post-immobilization period

The post-immobilization period begins from the moment immobilization of the fracture is terminated and continues until muscle strength and range of motion are restored. Among the most frequent complications that develop during this period are joint contractures, muscle atrophy, and joint deformity. To prevent these disorders, the following rehabilitation methods are used:

Special exercises that help increase muscle strength, endurance and general condition of other muscles;
Manual therapy, physiotherapy and massage – these methods allow you to eliminate swelling, relieve pain, improve joint mobility;
Correct positioning to prevent contractures.

Peculiarities of the course of the recovery period

This period is the final one and the main task facing the rehabilitation specialist at this moment is to restore lost motor functions, movement accuracy and fine motor skills. For this, various gaming techniques and exercises are actively used to help develop balance and train the vestibular apparatus.

Get a consultation with a rehabilitation specialist or make an appointment

In addition, throughout the entire period of rehabilitation, from the first to the last day, it is important to pay attention to such moments as the child’s nutrition and his psychological state, as they can also affect the process convalescence. The diet should contain the required amount of protein, vitamins and minerals and other important nutrients. An exact nutrition plan is drawn up individually with the participation of a pediatrician.

Psychological problems arise as a result of restriction of physical activity and isolation from society. In order to smooth out these negative aspects as much as possible, joint efforts of parents and specialists who work with the child are needed. Creating a calm, friendly and active environment will help to avoid many psychological problems that negatively affect the rehabilitation process.

Our prices

You can see all the prices for our services on the “Price list” page .

Author-physician:

Polyakov Denis Vladimirovich

Chief Physician, Rehabilitologist, Physiotherapist.

The purpose of my work is to develop a unique rehabilitation program for each patient. It should be effective and efficient, understandable not only to doctors, but also to the patient himself and his relatives.

Work experience:

16 years

recovery period, treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, consequences

04/27/2020

The clavicle is an S-shaped tubular bone. Thanks to her, the chest is connected to the scapula. It helps move the shoulder joint. Therefore, if a person injures her, then he will not be able to move his arms freely. Displaced clavicle fractures are a very common injury. Athletes, children, young people under the age of 20 usually injure this area.

Symptoms of injury

When the collarbone is injured, the following typical symptoms appear in a person. He has:

there are sharp pains that increase when trying to move the injured limb;
there is severe swelling at the site of injury;
bruises appear. But usually they appear in the event that bone fragments have violated the integrity of a vessel;
changes the position of the shoulder. It can drop a lot or come forward;
hangs heavily, the injured arm goes numb. This usually occurs if the injury has damaged the integrity of the nerve bundle;
impaired motor activity in the injured limb;
the scapula protrudes forward, but only from the injured side;
there is a crunch when trying to touch the limb;
uncharacteristic mobility appears in the injured arm;
blood flows strongly and bone fragments from the wound are visible.

Remember: with a strong displacement, the injured limb injures the dome of the pleura. In this case, the victim feels severe pain, he has breathing problems. And this phenomenon is very dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.

Clavicle fracture

Types of fractures

Conventionally, doctors divide the injury of the collarbone into several main types. According to the location of the connector, a person can be injured:

Inner third of the bone. Doctors call it a fracture of the sternal end of the clavicle.
Middle third of bone or diaphyseal fracture.
Outer third of the bone. Physicians call it a fracture of the acromial end of the clavicle.

Remember: most patients are injured in the middle third of the bone. In addition:

Transverse, where a fracture breaks the bone across and divides it into two blunt pieces.
Longitudinal. Here the fracture runs along the entire bone.
Oblique. The patient receives an oblique fracture that divides the bone into two pointed parts.
Helical or spiral fracture.
Comminuted fracture of the clavicle with displacement, where the bone is divided into several large and small pieces.

The victim may also receive:

Complete fracture in which the periosteum is torn. And if part of the periosteum remains, and it is she who holds parts of the bone, then such damage is called “incomplete”.
Displaced fracture. With it, the anatomically correct position of the parts of the bone is violated. Moreover, such an injury is visible even to the patient himself. And if the broken bone fragments have not changed their position, then such an injury is called a “fracture without displacement”. Moreover, it is quite difficult to identify such an injury on your own.

Displaced clavicle fractures can also be closed or open. In the first injury, the integrity of the skin is not violated, and in the second injury, the integrity of the skin is violated and the displacement of bone fragments is noticeable.

Which doctor to contact

A person who has injured his collarbone should definitely see a traumatologist and an orthopedist. He will lead the patient to a visual examination, direct him to instrumental diagnostics.

Diagnosis

During the diagnosis, the patient is required to take an x-ray in two projections. It can be used to determine the condition of bone fragments, the presence of complications. For example, ruptures in the nerves, blood vessels, pleural dome. In addition, the victim needs to take an x-ray of the upper chest. Moreover, if he has a pathological deformation of the bone, then he will need to pass a general blood test, urine, venous blood, part of the tissues of the collarbone for a biopsy.

First aid

Initially, the victim should be placed in such a position that the bone fragments will not move. Next, the relatives should call a doctor. Then they need:

Place a small piece of cloth or a rolled bandage under the armpit.
Place injured limb in optimum position. It usually needs to be bent to 90 degrees.
Bandage the limb completely to the body.
Make a bandage around the neck, put a hand into it. You can also use a non-tight tire.

Remember: the patient can be transported in a sitting or semi-sitting position. He should not rely on the side with a damaged limb. At home, you can give the victim an anesthetic. And also he can put a cold compress, ice on the limb. Remember: you cannot set a bone, a joint, put pressure on it, straighten a joint. It is also prohibited to transport it lying down or standing

Methods of treatment

There are two ways to treat a broken bone. Patient assigned:

Conservative treatment.
Surgical operation.

Conservative treatments are used if the patient has received:

Non-comminuted subperiosteal fracture with slight displacement of bone fragments;
Injury without displacement of bone fragments.

Surgical treatment

It is carried out only for medical reasons. For example, it is done to patients with:

many bone fragments;
large bone displacement;
open fracture.

During the procedure, the doctor compares bone fragments (performs reposition) to a patient with an open or closed fracture of the clavicle with displacement, fixes them in the desired position. The last procedure is called osteosynthesis. Fragments are fixed with an intraosseous pin, an external plate, and knitting needles.

Remember: if the collarbone is damaged, the Ilizarov apparatus is not placed on the patient. Moreover, in case of a comminuted injury of the clavicle with a displacement, the victim is operated on with the introduction of pins.

But do not forget that this is a rather complicated operation, after which the patient may experience complications. During the procedure, the specialist makes a channel, inserts a metal pin into it. This pin runs along the line of bone fracture and connects the two fragments to each other.

Operation with a plate on a patient with a displaced clavicle fracture is very simple and less traumatic. During the procedure, the doctor places a flat metal plate with holes on the fracture site and nearby tissues. The plate is held in place by bone screws. After such an operation, the victim rarely has complications, but the connection between the bone fragments will not be so strong.

Osteosynthesis

This procedure is performed on the patient very quickly, i. until the moment when the process of healing of the clavicle began after its fracture with displacement, a false joint did not form. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. During her doctor:

cuts the skin;
combines bone fragments, fastens them, fixes them;
installs drainage.

Next, the wound is sutured. The injured limb is immobilized with a soft bandage. Allocations from the drainage control 2 days.

Remember: if the patient does not have pus, blood, then the drains are removed.

Next, a plaster cast of the sternum-shoulder type is applied to the injured limb. If the patient has pus, then the wound is opened, cleaned, treated with an antibiotic solution. Then it is sutured a second time, and the treatment for a patient with a displaced clavicle fracture is changed. Remember: the patient can move his arm after 3-4 weeks. After complete fusion of the clavicle after its fracture with displacement, the patient undergoes complete rehabilitation, he is removed the pins and plates installed during the operation. This usually happens six months after the operation. Remember: the patient will be able to fully move his arm and lift heavy objects only after 8-12 months.

Medical treatment support

After the operation, the victim will also have to take medication. If the victim underwent osteosynthesis, then he is prescribed medications that accelerate the process of bone fusion. These are Chondroitin, Teraflex, medicines with calcium. The composition of the preparations includes building material for bone and cartilage tissue. Also, patients are prescribed:

bone-penetrating antibiotics. These are Lincomycin, Tetracycline, Vibramycin;
pain medications. These are Ketorol, Analgin;
vitamins;
drugs that prevent the occurrence of thrombosis “Aspirin-cardio”, “Cardiomagnyl”.

Remember: if the patient is not bleeding, then the last group of medicines should be used. And if a patient after a fracture of the clavicle with a displacement was treated conservatively, then he can be treated with all the medicines described above, except for antibiotics.

Types of dressings and their uses

Patients who have been prescribed conservative methods of treatment, or have undergone surgery, are required to apply plaster casts. They fix and support the injured limb, immobilize it, and prevent the displacement of bone fragments. Use:

Delbe rings. The patient around the shoulder girdle makes two rings from a towel, a fabric strip. These rings are connected with a rope at a level at which pain disappears in the patient. Typically, such rings are used when transporting a patient to a medical facility.
Figure-of-eight bandage. It is applied to the back and shoulder girdle. From the front, it is very similar to the Delbe rings, but, unlike them, it forms a cross behind the back. It is also used during the transportation of the patient to a medical facility. she does not raise her shoulder girdle, but only spreads them to the side.
Deso bandage. It is made from an elastic or simple bandage. It fixes the injured limb in a horizontal or vertical plane, but does not spread the forearms to the sides. It is difficult to do it on your own, so only an experienced specialist imposes it.
Velpo bandage. Here, the damaged limb is fixed on a healthy shoulder girdle, the palm looks down. The limb is bent at an angle of 45 degrees. The bandage is fixed along the body in the vertical and horizontal plane. It helps to completely immobilize the limb, but does not take the forearms to the sides.
Bandage. It is made from a square piece of fabric. The piece is folded into a triangle, the damaged limb is placed on a wide part of the tissue, and the long ends are fixed on the victim’s neck. It is incredibly simple to make such a bandage, but it will not be able to rigidly fix the limb.
Plaster cast. It is imposed only in a medical institution, because. it fixes the injured limb for a long period of time. Now, instead of plaster bandages, bandages made of composite materials are used. They also fix an injured limb, but are smaller and easier to use.

Please note: only a specialist can select the fixing device. But if a patient with a fracture of the clavicle with a displacement after the treatment needs to fix the injured limb for a long time, then a plaster cast or a bandage made of composite materials is used.

Rehabilitation after fracture of the clavicle with displacement

The patient’s recovery period after a displaced clavicle fracture begins immediately after surgery. Already while wearing a plaster cast, the victim can go to physiotherapy. Usually, mobility in the injured limb is restored after 8 weeks. After removing the plaster cast, the patient can develop the damaged limb. The load should be increased gradually. At the same time, he is prescribed a therapeutic massage. He:

improves blood circulation in a broken limb;
accelerates the healing process of tissues.

Massage is done 2 times a day for 10 minutes. After complete healing of the wound, the patient can:

exercise therapy;
do the exercises recommended by your doctor.

Usually, at the beginning, classes are carried out with special gymnastic sticks. So the patient returns the ability to abduct and bring the limb to the body, bend, unbend the shoulder joint. Later, the victim can perform weight-bearing exercises. Thanks to them, the former muscle strength will return to the patient after a fracture of the clavicle with a displacement, the former motor activity will be restored, the recovery period after the operation. But such activities can only be done with a specialist. He will talk in detail about the timing of recovery.

Massage

During rehabilitation, the patient may experience massage sessions. Moreover, they massage the back and chest from the damaged area. You can start the massage on the second day. Do it for 15 minutes. During the procedure doctor:

rubs the skin;
stretches the muscles.

All this increases blood circulation. Remember: the victim should not have pain and discomfort.

Therapeutic exercise

Physical education is not the last place in the process of rehabilitation of the patient. Such gymnastics:

strengthens weakened muscles;
improves joint mobility, blood circulation.

Initially, the victim can do the exercises together with the doctor. Movements should be smooth, slow. Affected Can:

squeeze, unclench fingers, spread them in different directions;
connect the pads of all fingers to the pad of the thumb;
tense the muscles in bent fingers;
twist with each finger, and then with the whole hand clockwise, and then counterclockwise;
raise, lower the brush;
make finger snaps;
put the hands on the shoulders, elbows, alternately raise and lower. He can also perform elbow rotations;
straighten your arms, raise them and lower them;
bend your elbows, take your hands back;
do the exercise “scissors” with your hands, swing your arms.

After such exercises, usually a callus forms in the patient faster, the bone grows together. Remember: if during the session the patient felt tired, then they should be stopped.

Physiotherapy

After removing the cast, the patient is prescribed physiotherapy. She:

improves blood circulation in the injured limb;
accelerates the process of bone tissue repair.

A patient recovering from a displaced clavicle fracture would need to look like:

warm baths;
sessions with electrophoresis, phonophoresis;
magnetotherapy.

Consequences and complications

Conventionally, physicians divide all complications that appear in a patient with a hip fracture with displacement into several main types. They are:

early;
late.

Early complications and atypical syndromes appear in the patient at the time of injury or in the first days after the operation.