How long does it take for a broken collarbone to heal. What are the common causes of collarbone fractures. What treatment options are available for a fractured clavicle. How can you manage pain and promote healing at home. When is surgery necessary for a broken collarbone.

Understanding Collarbone Fractures: Causes and Risk Factors

A broken collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury that can occur due to various reasons. The collarbone serves as a crucial connection between the shoulder blade and the breastbone, making it vulnerable to fractures during certain activities and accidents.

What are the most common causes of collarbone fractures? The primary causes include:

• Falls onto the shoulder or outstretched arm
• Sports-related injuries, particularly from direct blows to the shoulder
• Traffic accidents involving cars, motorcycles, or bicycles
• Birth injuries during difficult vaginal deliveries

Who is at higher risk of experiencing a broken collarbone? Teenagers and children are more susceptible to this type of injury compared to adults. The risk tends to decrease after age 20 but rises again in older adults due to age-related bone density loss.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Fractured Collarbone

Identifying a broken collarbone is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. What are the telltale signs of a clavicle fracture? Key symptoms include:

• Increased pain when moving the shoulder
• Swelling, tenderness, and bruising around the affected area
• A visible bump or deformity near the shoulder
• A grinding or crackling sound when attempting to move the shoulder
• Stiffness or inability to move the shoulder
• Skin tenting over the fracture site when gently pinched

In newborns with a broken collarbone, parents may notice that the baby doesn’t move their arm for several days and cries when the arm is moved.

When to Seek Medical Attention

How soon should you see a doctor for a suspected collarbone fracture? It’s essential to seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of a broken collarbone or if pain prevents normal arm use. Delaying treatment can lead to poor healing outcomes and potential complications.

Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation of Collarbone Fractures

How do healthcare providers diagnose a broken collarbone? The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Physical examination: A healthcare provider will inspect the area for tenderness, swelling, and any open wounds.
2. X-rays: These imaging tests reveal the location and severity of the fracture, as well as any joint involvement.
3. CT scans: In some cases, more detailed images may be necessary to assess the extent of the injury.

What information can be gathered from these diagnostic tools? X-rays and CT scans help determine the fracture’s location, severity, and whether any joints are affected. This information is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options for a Broken Collarbone

How are collarbone fractures typically treated? The treatment approach depends on the severity of the break and the patient’s age. Common treatment options include:

Non-Surgical Treatment

What is the primary non-surgical treatment for a broken collarbone? Most collarbone fractures can be treated with conservative measures, including:

• Wearing a sling to immobilize the affected arm
• Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling
• Taking pain medications, either over-the-counter or prescription
• Engaging in gentle exercises and physical therapy to restore movement and strength

Surgical Intervention

When is surgery necessary for a broken collarbone? Surgical treatment may be required in cases where:

• The bone has broken through the skin (open fracture)
• The collarbone is significantly displaced or in multiple pieces
• Conservative treatment has failed to promote proper healing

What does collarbone surgery typically involve? The procedure usually includes the use of plates, screws, or rods to hold the bone in place during the healing process. It’s important to note that surgical complications are rare but can include infection.

Fractured Collarbone Healing Time: What to Expect

How long does it take for a broken collarbone to heal? The healing timeline varies depending on several factors:

• For children: Bone healing typically takes 3 to 6 weeks
• For adults: The healing process usually spans 6 to 12 weeks
• For newborns with birth-related fractures: Healing often occurs within about two weeks

What factors can influence the healing time? Age, overall health, the severity of the fracture, and adherence to treatment guidelines all play a role in determining the recovery period.

Promoting Optimal Healing at Home

How can you support the healing process at home? Follow these tips to promote optimal recovery:

• Apply ice to the affected area for 20 to 30 minutes every few hours during the first 2 to 3 days
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding sling use and activity restrictions
• Engage in prescribed exercises and physical therapy to maintain flexibility and strength
• Take medications as directed to manage pain and inflammation

Potential Complications of Collarbone Fractures

While most broken collarbones heal without significant issues, what complications can arise? Potential problems include:

• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
• Delayed or incomplete healing
• Formation of a bony lump at the fracture site
• Increased risk of osteoarthritis in cases involving joint damage

How can these complications be addressed? Prompt medical attention and following the prescribed treatment plan can help minimize the risk of complications. In cases of severe or persistent issues, additional interventions may be necessary.

Rehabilitation and Recovery After a Collarbone Fracture

What does the rehabilitation process involve following a broken collarbone? Rehabilitation typically includes:

1. Early mobilization: Gentle exercises to prevent stiffness often begin soon after treatment starts
2. Progressive strengthening: As healing progresses, exercises focus on building muscle strength
3. Range of motion exercises: These help restore full shoulder mobility
4. Physical therapy: Professional guidance to ensure proper technique and progression

How long does the rehabilitation process take? The duration of rehabilitation varies depending on the severity of the fracture and individual healing rates. Most patients can expect to engage in some form of therapy for several weeks to months following the initial healing period.

Returning to Normal Activities

When can patients resume their regular activities after a collarbone fracture? The timeline for returning to normal activities depends on several factors:

• Type and severity of the fracture
• Treatment method (surgical vs. non-surgical)
• Individual healing progress
• Nature of the activity (e.g., non-contact vs. contact sports)

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance regarding activity restrictions and gradual return to normal functions. Most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks, but full recovery and return to high-impact activities may take several months.

Prevention Strategies for Collarbone Fractures

While not all collarbone fractures can be prevented, what measures can be taken to reduce the risk? Consider the following strategies:

• Wear appropriate protective gear during sports and high-risk activities
• Practice proper fall prevention techniques, especially for older adults
• Maintain bone health through a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones
• Use caution when participating in activities with a high risk of falls or collisions

How effective are these prevention strategies? While they cannot guarantee complete protection, these measures can significantly reduce the risk of collarbone fractures and other bone injuries.

Special Considerations for Pediatric Collarbone Fractures

How do collarbone fractures in children differ from those in adults? Pediatric clavicle fractures have some unique characteristics:

• Faster healing: Children’s bones typically heal more quickly than adult bones
• Greater remodeling potential: Young bones have a better ability to reshape and correct minor deformities
• Reduced need for surgery: Surgical intervention is rarely required in patients under 16 years old

What special care is needed for newborns with birth-related collarbone fractures? In most cases, newborns with clavicle fractures from difficult deliveries require only pain management and careful handling. These fractures typically heal within about two weeks without long-term complications.

Long-Term Outlook for Pediatric Patients

What is the prognosis for children who experience collarbone fractures? Generally, the long-term outlook is excellent. Most children recover fully without lasting effects on shoulder function or growth. However, regular follow-ups may be recommended to ensure proper healing and development.

Advancements in Collarbone Fracture Treatment

How has the treatment of collarbone fractures evolved in recent years? Several advancements have improved outcomes for patients with clavicle fractures:

• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Improved fixation devices for better stability during healing
• Enhanced imaging technologies for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
• Personalized rehabilitation protocols based on individual patient factors

What impact have these advancements had on patient outcomes? These developments have led to faster recovery times, reduced complications, and improved functional results for many patients with collarbone fractures.

Future Directions in Collarbone Fracture Management

What emerging technologies and treatments show promise for collarbone fracture care? Ongoing research focuses on:

• Biologic therapies to enhance bone healing
• Advanced 3D printing techniques for customized fixation devices
• Virtual reality applications for rehabilitation and pain management
• Improved predictive models for identifying high-risk fractures

How might these innovations shape the future of collarbone fracture treatment? As these technologies continue to develop, patients may benefit from more personalized, effective, and less invasive treatment options, potentially leading to faster recovery times and better long-term outcomes.

Living with a Healing Collarbone: Practical Tips and Lifestyle Adjustments

What daily challenges might patients face while recovering from a collarbone fracture? Common difficulties include:

• Sleeping comfortably
• Dressing and personal hygiene
• Performing work or school-related tasks
• Maintaining physical fitness

How can patients adapt to these challenges? Consider the following tips:

1. Use extra pillows for support while sleeping
2. Opt for loose-fitting, button-up shirts to ease dressing
3. Explore adaptive tools for personal care tasks
4. Discuss workplace or school accommodations with supervisors or administrators
5. Engage in low-impact exercises approved by your healthcare provider

What role does nutrition play in collarbone fracture recovery? A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein can support bone healing and overall recovery. Consider incorporating foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, fish, and lean meats into your diet.

Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Recovery

How can a collarbone fracture impact a patient’s mental health? The recovery process may lead to:

• Frustration with physical limitations
• Anxiety about returning to normal activities
• Depression related to prolonged recovery or complications

What strategies can help patients cope with these emotional challenges? Consider the following approaches:

• Set realistic expectations for recovery
• Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation or gentle yoga
• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Consult with a mental health professional if needed

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery, patients can work towards a more comprehensive and satisfying healing process.

Broken collarbone // Middlesex Health

Overview

A broken collarbone is a common injury. The collarbone, also known as the clavicle, connects the shoulder blade to the breastbone. Common causes of a broken collarbone include falls, sports and traffic accidents. Infants sometimes break their collarbones while being born.

Seek medical help quickly for a broken collarbone. Most heal well with ice, pain relievers, a sling, physical therapy and time. Some breaks might require surgery to put plates, screws or rods into the bone to hold the pieces in place during healing.

The collarbone connects the breastbone to the shoulder blade. A broken collarbone is a common injury that causes pain and swelling at the break.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a broken collarbone include:

• Pain that increases when moving the shoulder.
• Swelling, tenderness or bruising.
• Skin over the break might look like a tent when gently pinched.
• A bump on or near the shoulder.
• A grinding or crackling sound when moving the shoulder.
• Stiffness or not being able to move the shoulder.

Newborns often will not move their arm for days after breaking the collarbone during birth and will cry if someone moves the arm.

When to see a doctor

If you notice symptoms of a broken collarbone or enough pain to prevent using the arm as usual, see a health care provider right away. Waiting to be treated can lead to poor healing.

Causes

Common causes of a broken collarbone include:

• Falls, such as falling onto the shoulder or onto an outstretched arm.
• Sports injuries, such as a direct blow to the shoulder on the field, rink or court.
• Traffic accidents, from a car, motorcycle or bike crash.
• Birth injury, usually from a difficult vaginal birth.

Risk factors

Teenagers and children are at higher risk of a broken collarbone than are adults. The risk goes down after age 20. Then it rises again in older people as they lose bone strength with age.

Complications

Most broken collarbones heal without difficulty. Complications, when they occur, might include:

• Nerve or blood vessel injury. Rarely, the jagged ends of a broken collarbone may injure nearby nerves and blood vessels. Seek immediate medical attention for numbness or coldness in an arm or hand.
• Poor or slow healing. A badly broken collarbone might heal slowly or not all the way. Poor joining of the bones during healing can shorten the bone.
• A lump in the bone. As part of the healing process, the place where the bone knits together forms a bony lump. The lump is easy to see because it’s close to the skin. Most lumps disappear over time, but not all.
• Osteoarthritis. A fracture that involves the joints that connect the collarbone to the shoulder blade or the breastbone might increase the risk of later developing arthritis in that joint.

Diagnosis

During the physical exam, a health care provider inspects the area for tenderness, swelling or an open wound. X-rays show where the break is, how bad it is and whether the joints are injured. A CT scan might give more-detailed images.

Treatment

For healing, any broken bone must be kept still. People who have a broken collarbone usually need to wear a sling. Bone healing usually takes 3 to 6 weeks for children and 6 to 12 weeks for adults.

A newborn’s collarbone that breaks during delivery typically heals in about two weeks with only pain control and careful handling of the baby.

Medicines

A pain medicine that you can buy without a prescription might be all that’s needed to ease pain. Some people might need a prescription medicine with a narcotic for a few days. Because narcotics can be habit-forming, it’s important to use them for only a short time and only as directed by a health care provider.

Therapy

Exercises to restore movement begin soon after treatment starts. It’s usually important to begin moving to lessen stiffness. Later, other exercises or physical therapy can help the joint move better and build muscle strength.

Surgery

Surgery might be needed if the collarbone has broken through the skin, is out of place or is in several pieces. Broken collarbone surgery usually includes using plates, screws or rods to hold the bone in place while it heals. Surgical complications are rare but can include infection.

Children and teenagers younger than 16 rarely need surgery because they heal more quickly than adults do.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Applying ice to the area for 20 to 30 minutes every few hours during the first 2 to 3 days after a collarbone break can help control pain and swelling.

Preparing for an appointment

Depending on how bad the break is, your health care provider or a provider in the emergency room might recommend a surgeon who treats bone injuries, also called an orthopedic surgeon.

What you can do

It might be helpful to write a list that includes:

• Details about symptoms, what caused the injury and when it happened.
• Information about past medical problems.
• All medicines, vitamins and dietary supplements you take, including doses.
• Questions to ask the health care provider.

What to expect from your doctor

Your provider might ask:

• Have you broken a bone before?
• Have you been told you have weakened bones?

© 2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use

Clavicle Fracture

Your child has two clavicles (collarbones). Each clavicle extends from the top of the sternum (breastbone) to the shoulders (Picture 1).

A clavicle fracture is common in children after a collision or fall onto the shoulder. Most clavicle fractures that occur in children can be treated without surgery.  

Treatment

Depending on the type, place and severity of the fracture, the medical practitioner (doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) will decide the proper treatment.

Clavicle fractures do not need to line up perfectly to heal properly. On many fractures, the ends overlap (are shortened) and/or the pieces are displaced (not touching) (Picture 2). A ball of bone (callus) will form around the fracture to heal it. That ball of bone will smooth out (remodel) over time (Picture 3). Please ask your child’s provider for further information on fracture healing and bone remodeling.  

Your child may always have a bump where the fracture was, but this should not affect their ability to participate in all activities. Most clavicle fractures do not need surgery. If the clavicle can be treated without surgery, the practitioner may use a clavicle strap or a sling (with or without a chest strap), or both. This helps protect the fracture and provides comfort.

The strap helps keep the two parts of the bone lined up to reduce painful movements of the parts of the bone. Your child may need it for 3 or more weeks.

When to Call the Medical Practitioner

For the first 24 to 48 hours, your child may have some swelling in the arm. Swelling happens if the arm hangs at the side too long. Gravity pulls fluid into the hand and fingers. This leads to swelling, discomfort, numbness, tingling, coolness and color changes.

If the medical practitioner does not limit your child’s activity, the child should do the following movements 5 to 6 times a day. The movements prevent swelling and stiffness and help circulation.

Elbow:

1. Straighten and bend the elbow 10 to 15 times.

Wrist:

1. Wave the hand up and down 10 to 15 times.
2. Make 10 circles starting to the right, then 10 circles starting to the left.

Fingers:

1. Wiggle fingers for 20 seconds.
2. Make a fist, then spread fingers wide apart; repeat 10 times.

If your child’s symptoms do not improve using the arm movements, contact their practitioner. The practitioner may need to see your child to evaluate them.

If Your Child Wears a Clavicle Strap

• Tighten the strap so that the shoulders are pulled back and down (Pictures 4 and 5). Check the strap several times during the first day to be sure the closures are fastened securely.
• Starting on the second day, tighten the straps every other day for 7 to 10 days. Do this because the straps will stretch. Make sure your child’s shoulders are pulled back when you tighten the straps
• Depending on the severity of the fracture you may be instructed not to remove the strap. If that is the case, your child should sponge bathe until allowed to remove the strap.
• Your practitioner will tell you when you may remove the strap for bathing. Put the clavicle strap back on right after bathing.  

Clothing

• Your child should wear clothing that closes in the front or back – not pullover shirts.
• When helping your child get dressed, put the arm with the broken collar bone into the sleeve first. When helping them undress, take the good arm out of the sleeve first.

Skin Care

• Look for signs of skin irritation from the strap every day.
• If there is redness and pain or the skin becomes raw, call your child’s clinic or practitioner.

Activity

• Your child should not play any sports and should not lift or pull anything with the injured arm.
• Your child should be lifted by the chest or waist only, not by the arms and not under the arms.
• When holding your child’s hand, hold the hand on the uninjured side.

Follow-up Appointments

Make an appointment with your child’s practitioner or clinic now, for 1 to 2 weeks after the injury.

If your child needs to see an Orthopedic practitioner, call the Orthopedic clinic in Columbus at (614) 722-5175 or in Toledo at (419) 251-2061.

If you have any questions, be sure to ask your medical provider.

Clavicle Fracture (PDF)

HH-I-65 ©1996, Revised 2020, Nationwide Children’s Hospital

404 Page not found

• University
  • Manual
  • Rectorate
  • Appeal to the rector
  • Academic Council
  • University 90 years old
  • Telephone directory
  • Documents
  • Structure
  • University media
  • Symbols of BSMU
  • Electronic Trust Box
  • Comprehensive program for the development of BSMU
  • Antiterror
  • Information about the educational organization
  • Applicant
  • Appeal of citizens
  • Photo gallery
  • Site map
  • Video Gallery
  • Payment by bank card
  • University reorganization
  • Calendar of events
• Education
  • Educational and Methodological Department
  • Practical Skills Center
  • Faculties
  • Chairs
  • Institute of Additional Professional Education
  • Admissions Committee
  • College of Medicine
  • Dean’s office for work with foreign students
  • International Affairs Department
  • Residency department
  • Schedule
  • Quality management
  • Federal Accreditation Center
  • Nizhnevolzhsky Scientific and Educational Medical Cluster
  • State final certification
  • Primary accreditation
  • Primary specialized accreditation
  • Internal assessment of the quality of education
  • Information for the disabled and persons with disabilities
  • Information for students
  • I am a professional
  • All-Russian Student Olympiad in Surgery with international participation
  • Medical inspector
  • Online learning
  • Social work in the health system
  • New educational programs
  • Electronic educational library
  • Periodic accreditation
  • Independent assessment of the quality of education
  • Vocational training
• Science and innovation
  • Science and universities
  • Structure and documents
  • Decree of the President of the Russian Federation “On the strategy of scientific and technological development of the Russian Federation”
  • Strategy for the development of medical science until 2025
  • Research units
  • Clinical research and testing, IEC
  • Dissertation councils
  • Doctorate
  • Postgraduate
  • BSMU grant policy
  • Current grants, scholarships, competitions
  • Conferences and forums
  • Grants, awards, competitions, conferences for young scientists
  • Useful Internet links
  • Scientific publications
  • Problem scientific committees
  • Patent activities
  • BSMU in university rankings
  • Publication activity
  • Research Institute of Cardiology
  • Institute of Urology and Clinical Oncology
  • BSMU repository
  • Eurasian REC
• Medical work
  • Clinic of BSMU
  • All-Russian Center for Eye and Plastic Surgery
  • UV NII GB
  • Clinical dental clinic
  • Clinical bases
  • Medical reports
  • Contractual work with clinical bases
  • Departments of the BSMU Clinic
  • Licenses
  • Sanatorium BSMU
• Life of BSMU
  • Educational and social work
  • Department for cultural work
  • Public Relations Department
  • Public associations and self-government bodies
  • Educational and social work department
  • Creative life
  • Sports life
  • Trade union of students of BSMU
  • Trade Union Committee
  • Board of curators
  • Student Council
  • Alumni Association
  • The work of museums in the departments
  • Graduates of BSMU – veterans of the Great Patriotic War
  • Gold fund of BSMU
  • Media center
  • BSMU – University of Healthy Lifestyle
  • Anniversaries
  • Life of foreign students of BSMU
  • University 90 years old
  • University 85 years old
  • Celebrating the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War
• Scientific Library
• Priority 2030
  • About the program
  • Project office
  • Strategic projects
  • Mission and strategy
  • Digital Pulpit
  • Competitions for students
  • Reporting
  • Media publications
  • Development program
  • Scientific seminars for students and scientists of BSMU
  • News

Clavicle fracture (fracture): causes, symptoms, signs, treatment, diagnosis, prevention

03/28/2016

Symptoms

• Joint pain
• Pain or discomfort
• Visible deformation
• Neck tension
• Bone fracture (one fracture)
• Swelling

Show more

Overview

Clavicle fractures are predominantly the result of a blow to the shoulder. They are often associated with traffic accidents involving motorcycles. In most cases, a clavicle fracture heals on its own. Serious fractures may need surgery to restore the connection between the broken parts of the bones. Most people recover from such an injury completely.

What to expect

Some clavicle fractures heal on their own. Others need surgery to repair the connection between the broken parts of the bone. In any case, the clavicle must be fixed in a stationary state. It may take several months for the collarbone to recover and be able to return to normal life. A small lump may remain at the site of the former fracture of the clavicle. The prognosis for full recovery is high for most people.

May be worsened by

Smoking or diabetes.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask the patient about the injury and examine the shoulder. He may apply some pressure to the area of ​​injury to check for pain. X-rays and, in some cases, CT scans are done to check for any damage you may have experienced.

Treatment

— In most cases, a clavicle fissure needs to be fixed with a sling bandage. The sling bandage should be worn continuously until the pain subsides, preferably for 2 to 4 weeks in the case of children and 4 to 8 weeks for trauma in the adult.

– Over-the-counter pain medications are usually enough to relieve pain. If these do not help with pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications.

— If the fracture occurs in the area of ​​the collarbone near the edge of the shoulder, surgery may be necessary.

– Once the bone begins to heal, your doctor will likely advise you to begin light shoulder and elbow exercises. These exercises will help prevent the development of real estate in the joints and muscle weakness. More intense physical exercises can be started after the fissure has completely healed.

Self-medication

If you think you may have broken your collarbone, it is important to get qualified medical help.