What are the common causes of clavicle fractures. How can you identify the symptoms of a broken collarbone. What treatment options are available for clavicle fractures. How long does it take for a broken collarbone to heal completely. What steps can you take to ensure proper recovery from a clavicle fracture.

The Anatomy and Function of the Clavicle

The clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone, is a long, slender bone that plays a crucial role in shoulder function and upper body mechanics. It extends from the breastbone (sternum) to the shoulder blade (scapula), forming a bridge between the trunk and the arm. This unique S-shaped bone serves several important purposes:

• Provides attachment points for muscles of the neck, chest, and upper arm
• Acts as a strut to support the shoulder and allow arm movement
• Protects important blood vessels and nerves that run beneath it
• Transmits force from the arm to the axial skeleton

Given its exposed position and the forces it endures, the clavicle is particularly susceptible to fractures. Understanding its anatomy and function is crucial for comprehending the impact of clavicle fractures and their treatment.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Clavicle Fractures

Clavicle fractures are among the most frequent bone injuries, accounting for about 5% of all adult fractures. They can occur in people of all ages, but are particularly common in young adults and children. The most frequent causes of clavicle fractures include:

1. Falls onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder
2. Sports injuries, especially in contact sports like football, rugby, or hockey
3. Motor vehicle accidents
4. Birth trauma in newborns

Certain factors may increase the risk of sustaining a clavicle fracture:

• Participation in high-impact or contact sports
• Osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken bone density
• Age (both the very young and the elderly are at higher risk)
• Previous clavicle fractures

Do certain occupations increase the risk of clavicle fractures? Jobs that involve heavy lifting, repetitive overhead movements, or a high risk of falls (such as construction work or certain military roles) may put individuals at a higher risk of clavicle injuries.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone

Identifying a clavicle fracture promptly is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. The symptoms of a broken collarbone are often quite distinct and may include:

• Severe pain in the shoulder area, which worsens with movement
• Difficulty moving the arm on the affected side
• A grinding sensation when attempting to raise the arm
• Swelling and tenderness over the collarbone
• Bruising around the injury site
• A visible deformity or “step off” in the collarbone
• A cracking or popping sound at the time of injury

In some cases, more severe symptoms may occur:

• Numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers (indicating possible nerve damage)
• Shortness of breath (if the broken bone has injured the lung)
• In rare cases, the bone may protrude through the skin (open fracture)

Can a clavicle fracture be mistaken for other injuries? Yes, in some cases, a clavicle fracture might be confused with other shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder dislocations. This is why proper medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnostic Procedures for Clavicle Fractures

When a clavicle fracture is suspected, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools to confirm the injury and assess its severity. The diagnostic process typically involves:

Physical Examination

The doctor will carefully inspect and palpate the affected area, looking for signs of deformity, swelling, and tenderness. They will also assess arm movement and check for any signs of nerve or blood vessel damage.

Imaging Studies

Several imaging techniques may be used to visualize the fracture:

• X-rays: The primary diagnostic tool for clavicle fractures, providing clear images of the bone’s alignment and any displacement
• CT scans: May be used in complex cases to provide more detailed 3D images of the fracture and surrounding structures
• MRI: Rarely needed but can be useful if soft tissue damage is suspected

How do doctors classify clavicle fractures? Clavicle fractures are typically classified based on their location along the bone:

1. Middle third fractures (most common, accounting for about 80% of cases)
2. Distal third fractures (occurring near the shoulder joint)
3. Proximal third fractures (occurring near the sternum)

This classification helps guide treatment decisions and predict healing outcomes.

Treatment Options for Clavicle Fractures

The treatment of clavicle fractures depends on several factors, including the location and severity of the fracture, the patient’s age and activity level, and the presence of any complications. Treatment options generally fall into two categories: non-surgical and surgical.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many clavicle fractures can be treated non-surgically, especially those that are minimally displaced. Non-surgical treatment typically involves:

• Immobilization: Using a sling or figure-of-eight brace to keep the arm and shoulder still
• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications
• Ice therapy: To reduce swelling and discomfort
• Gradual rehabilitation: Controlled exercises to restore strength and range of motion

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended for fractures that are significantly displaced, comminuted (broken into several pieces), or open (protruding through the skin). Surgical options include:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): The bone fragments are realigned and held in place with plates and screws
• Intramedullary fixation: A rod is inserted through the center of the bone to maintain alignment

What factors influence the decision between surgical and non-surgical treatment? The choice between surgical and non-surgical treatment depends on factors such as the degree of bone displacement, the risk of non-union (failure to heal), the patient’s occupation and lifestyle, and the potential for complications.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Clavicle Fracture

Recovery from a clavicle fracture is a gradual process that requires patience and adherence to medical advice. The typical recovery timeline includes:

1. Immediate post-injury phase (0-2 weeks): Focus on pain management and protecting the fracture site
2. Early healing phase (2-6 weeks): Gentle range of motion exercises may begin, as directed by the healthcare provider
3. Mid-healing phase (6-12 weeks): Progressively increased activity and strengthening exercises
4. Late healing phase (3-6 months): Return to normal activities and sports, with caution

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery and typically involves:

• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength
• Gradual return to daily activities and work
• Sport-specific training for athletes

How long does it take for a clavicle fracture to heal completely? While the bone itself may heal in 6-8 weeks for adults (3-6 weeks for children), full recovery of strength and function can take several months. The exact timeline varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s overall health and adherence to the recovery plan.

Potential Complications and Long-Term Outlook

While most clavicle fractures heal without significant problems, complications can occur. Potential complications include:

• Nonunion: Failure of the bone to heal properly
• Malunion: Healing in an incorrect position, potentially causing shoulder dysfunction
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Persistent pain or stiffness
• Shoulder weakness
• In rare cases, complications from surgery such as infection or hardware problems

The long-term outlook for most patients with clavicle fractures is generally good, with many returning to their pre-injury level of function. However, some patients may experience:

• Mild residual pain or discomfort
• A visible bump at the fracture site
• Slightly limited range of motion in extreme positions

Can clavicle fractures lead to chronic shoulder problems? While most people recover fully, some may develop chronic issues such as shoulder instability or impingement syndrome, particularly if the fracture heals with significant shortening or malposition of the bone.

Prevention Strategies and Future Directions in Clavicle Fracture Management

While not all clavicle fractures can be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce the risk:

• Wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and high-risk activities
• Maintaining good bone health through proper nutrition and exercise
• Fall prevention measures, especially for older adults
• Proper technique and training in activities involving overhead movements

Research in clavicle fracture management continues to evolve, with focus areas including:

• Improved surgical techniques and materials
• Better understanding of fracture healing biology
• Development of more effective rehabilitation protocols
• Exploration of biological augmentation methods to enhance healing

What new treatments are on the horizon for clavicle fractures? Emerging technologies such as 3D-printed custom implants, growth factor therapies, and minimally invasive surgical techniques show promise in improving outcomes and reducing recovery times for clavicle fracture patients.

Understanding clavicle fractures, from their causes and symptoms to treatment options and recovery processes, is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. With proper management and care, most individuals can expect a full recovery and return to their normal activities. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to even better outcomes and more personalized treatment approaches for this common injury.

Broken collarbone – NHS

A broken collarbone, or fractured clavicle, is a common injury. It usually happens after a fall or a blow to the shoulder.

It takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal in adults, and 3 to 6 weeks in children.

The collarbone is a long, slender bone that runs from the breastbone to each shoulder.

You can feel it at the top of your chest, just below your neck. Tough bands of tissue (ligaments) connect the collarbone to the breastbone and shoulder blades.

When to get medical help

If you think you have injured your collarbone go to your nearest urgent treatment centre or call NHS 111 for advice.

If the the injury is severe – for example, the bone is poking through the skin or the pain is unbearable –  immediately call 999 or go straight to your nearest A&E department.

What you should do

While waiting to see a doctor, stabilise your arm using a towel as a sling – this goes under the forearm and then around the neck. Try to move your arm as little as possible.

Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help reduce the pain. Do not give aspirin to children under the age of 16.

Holding an ice pack to the injured area can also help reduce the pain and swelling. A bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel works well. But do not put ice directly onto your skin because it can burn.

Symptoms of a broken collarbone

A cracked or broken collarbone will be very painful. There may also be:

• swelling or tenderness around the injured area
• bruising to the skin
• bleeding if the bone has damaged the tissue and skin (this is rare)
• numbness or pins and needles if nerves in the arm are injured

Your shoulder may be slumped downwards and forwards under the weight of the arm, as the broken collarbone is no longer providing support.

There may have been a snapping or grinding noise when your collarbone broke. In severe cases, one end of the bone may poke through the skin.

Treating a broken collarbone

Most broken collarbones are left to heal naturally using a simple triangular sling to support the arm and hold the bones together in their normal position.

The sling is usually fitted in hospital after an X-ray has confirmed the collarbone is broken. You’ll be given painkillers to relieve the pain.  

Surgery under a general anaesthetic is only needed if the injury is severe – for example, where the bone has broken through the skin – or if the bones have failed to line up and are overlapping significantly.

Several techniques can be used to repair the collarbone. Fixing the break with a plate and screws is the most common method. Your surgeon will explain the technique they’re going to use and its advantages and disadvantages.

Being discharged

You may need to stay in hospital overnight, depending on the extent of the injury.

Before you’re discharged, you may see a physiotherapist, who can show you some gentle arm and shoulder exercises to do at home with your arm out of its sling. These will help reduce stiffness, relieve some of the pain, and strengthen your shoulder muscles.

Follow-up

You’ll probably need to go back to the hospital outpatient department about a week after being discharged to check your collarbone is healing properly. See your GP if you have any concerns before this appointment.

Go back to the A&E department if you notice any weakness developing in your arm or hand, or the pain suddenly gets worse.

How long does it take to heal?

In adults, it usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks for a broken collarbone to heal, although it can take longer. In children, it usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks to heal.

However, it will take at least the same period again to restore full strength to your shoulder.

While the fracture heals, a lump may develop along your collarbone. This is normal, and often improves over the following months.

Occasionally, the fracture does not heal and you may need surgery. This should be discussed with your surgeon.

Recovery advice

While recovering from a broken collarbone you may find it helpful to:

• use extra pillows at night to keep yourself more upright if you find sleeping uncomfortable
• use ice packs and painkillers if pain and swelling continues while your arm is in a sling
• move your elbow, hand and fingers regularly as soon as it’s comfortable to do so
• remove the sling for short periods of time if it is not too painful (when you think the fracture has started to heal)
• do not play contact sports for at least 10 to 12 weeks after the injury – your doctor will tell you when you can go back to work and resume normal activities

Page last reviewed: 20 March 2020
Next review due: 20 March 2023

Clavicle Fractures | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Where is the clavicle?

The clavicle is the bone that connects the breastplate (sternum) to the shoulder. It is a very solid bone that has a slight S-shape and can be easily seen in many people. It connects to the sternum at a joint with cartilage called the sternoclavicular joint. At the other end, the bone meets the shoulder area at a part of the shoulder blade (scapula) called the acromion. The joint at that end of the bone containing cartilage is called the acromioclavicular joint.

The collarbone acts as a strut to connect the sternum to the shoulder blade. Because of the critical location of the clavicle, any severe force on the shoulder, such as falling directly onto the shoulder or falling on an outstretched arm, transfers force to the clavicle. As a result, the collarbone is one of the most commonly broken bones in the body.

How do you know if you have a clavicle fracture?

When bones break, there is swelling due to bleeding from the blood vessels in and around the bone. There is also pain from the broken bone due to damage of microscopic nerve endings around the bone. Sometimes the bone is broken enough to create an angle between the broken ends, which causes a deformity along the bone. Usually with a broken collarbone the pain and swelling are severe and there may be a visible deformity. Often there is pain at the site of the fracture with any attempt to move the arm. The only way to verify if there is a fracture is to get an X-ray of the area.

What should be done if you think your clavicle is fractured?

If you think that the clavicle is broken, it is best to seek medical treatment right away. The best way to treat the injury until you can reach a physician or emergency facility is to immobilize the arm and shoulder by holding the arm close to the body with the other arm or in a sling. You should put ice on the injured area for 20 to 30 minutes at a time, making sure not to freeze the skin. Pain medication such as Tylenol or over-the-counter nonsteroidal agents such as ibuprofen or naproxen (Advil or Aleve, for example) are acceptable. The only time you should not take medication is if there is a break in the skin over the fracture, which indicates that the ends of the bones may have punctured the skin. In that case, the fracture may need surgery to clean out any dirt or debris. Other indications of more severe injury include tingling, numbness or weakness in the hand or arm. If the injury is near the sternum and you have shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing you should seek immediate medical attention.

What is the treatment for a clavicle fracture?

The first thing the physician will do is take an X-ray to determine if the clavicle is broken, where the fracture is located and how many pieces it is broken into. Clavicle fractures are basically divided into three types based upon location. Fractures near the sternum are the least common (less than 5 percent of all clavicle fractures). Fractures near the AC joint are the second most common and can come in many different patterns. The most common fractures of the clavicle are in the middle of the shaft of the bone, approximately halfway between the sternum and the AC joint.

The most common way to treat the fractures in the middle is with immobilization with either a sling or a special bandage called a figure-of-8 splint. Studies have shown that these fractures heal just as quickly and as well with a sling as with the figure-of-8 splint, so we recommend a sling in a majority of cases. The figure-of-8 splint is generally uncomfortable, difficult to wear nonstop for six or eight weeks and can result in skin problems and a smelly patient because it should not be removed to wash the armpit. Figure-of-8 splints are not indicated or useful in fractures of the clavicle near the AC joint. However, some orthopaedic doctors have strong opinions about the use of this figure-of-8 device, and it can produce an acceptable result.

The second thing that helps in the treatment of clavicle fractures is pain relief with cold therapy and pain medication. It is recommended that you ice the fractured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two hours for as long as necessary to decrease the pain and swelling. Heat is not recommended. Pain medication in the form of narcotics is the best for relief of pain from a fractured clavicle, and you may need it for several weeks, especially to help you sleep. Many patients with this injury have to sleep sitting up to be comfortable. Other pain-relieving medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal medications may be used, but they generally will not be adequate by themselves until the pain and swelling start to subside.

How long does a clavicle fracture take to heal?

How long it takes the fracture to heal depends upon many factors, such as age, the location of the fracture and how many pieces it is broken into. Clavicle fractures in children (younger than 8 years old) may heal in four or five weeks, and clavicle fractures in adolescents may take six to eight weeks. However, fractures in adults or teenagers who have stopped growing take 10 to 12 weeks to heal and may take longer. Most clavicle fractures will heal completely by four months in an adult. There are some indications that clavicle fractures broken into more pieces take longer than ones with a fewer fragments.

What can be done while waiting for a clavicle fracture to heal?

Within a few days of the fracture you should be able to move your fingers, wrist and elbow without too much discomfort. As the pain in the clavicle area improves you should be able to begin moving the shoulder joint a little to prevent the joint from tightening up too much. If the shoulder joint gets stiff, it is a condition known as a frozen shoulder. Usually as the pain in the fracture begins to subside, it is acceptable to begin moving the shoulder. Your physician may show you the motions or send you to a physical therapist for instructions. Generally motion of the shoulder does not prevent clavicle fractures from healing once the fracture has begun to heal.

Once the fracture has healed, motion is generally not restricted. It may take months before the fracture has healed enough to withstand contact such as in sports. Strengthening of the shoulder and arm should wait until the fracture has healed. Exercises should not be done until directed by your physician. Also, individuals who want to stay aerobically fit can usually begin light exercise such as walking or exercise biking after a few weeks, with the permission of their physician.

What result can be expected once a clavicle fracture heals?

Usually there are no limitations once the fracture heals. Most patients have full range of motion and can return to activities with no limitations. Some fractures can take six to nine months to heal. If the fracture does not heal, surgery may be necessary. Some fractures of the clavicle that do not heal completely are not painful and may not need surgery. Many factors determine whether a clavicle fracture will need surgery, and they should be discussed with your doctor. Generally, if surgery is necessary it is done with an incision followed by implanting a plate and screws. Sometimes a bone graft may be needed to help stimulate healing. Treatment after surgery depends upon many factors, such as how fast the fracture heals. Fortunately surgery is needed in few cases and is successful in cases where it is needed. Surgery can reduce a visible deformity of the fracture but results in a scar. Occasionally surgery may be indicated in a high-caliber athlete but this too is controversial and studies are mixed on when exactly surgery should be done.

Are fractures near the AC joint any different?

Fractures near the AC joint also can usually be treated without surgery. If there are torn ligaments associated with the fracture, then surgery may be indicated, although it is controversial. The pluses and minuses of surgery should be discussed with your doctor. Fortunately fractures of the clavicle near the AC joint need surgery only a small percentage of the time (less than 10 percent overall).

How Long Does It Take For A Broken Collarbone To Heal? Treatment For Clavicle Fractures

Signs of a broken bridge

Clavicles get fractured relatively frequently. If someone falls on the shoulder, the force can create a break at either the sternum, joint, or midpoint. Signs of a collarbone fracture include pain, stiffness, and swelling. Persons will also get tenderness, bruising, and bulging on or near the shoulder. Snapping or cracking in the shoulder area is another indicator of a fracture. More importantly, someone with a broken clavicle will have difficulty raising the arm or moving the shoulder.

The surprising way to treat clavicle fractures

Anyone suspecting a broken collarbone should see a doctor right away. Doctors can treat most cases non-surgically, especially mid shaft breaks. Healing of a fractured collarbone requires immobilization. The length of the immobilization period depends on the gravity of the injury. Doctors will outfit a sling or figure-of-eight bandage, depending on the location of the break. Cold therapy using ice packs can help reduce swelling. Furthermore, over-the-counter medication and NSAIDs can be used for pain management.

Going under the knife

Physical therapy generally occurs soon after the initial treatment to minimize long-term stiffness and discomfort during the healing process. After the removal of a sling, additional rehabilitation can restore flexibility and muscle strength. For more severe breaks, like bones broken through the skin, or severe displacement, surgery is required. The surgeon will need to put the damaged bone back in place. The surgeon then uses a combination of screws, plates, and rods to hold the bone in place. Based on the injury, the surgeon will advise on which type of surgery will be best. There will be a follow-up session to remove the material.

Bridging the collarbone gap

Once the patient gets the proper treatment, the healing process can start. Complications are rare and may include infection or improper healing. On the bright side, collarbone breaks heal quite quickly. Age and the extent of damage determine the speed of healing. Typically, children heal in 3-6 weeks. Adults, however, range from 4-12 weeks. With the right care, medication, and physical therapy, persons should be back to normal in no time.

Act quickly for quick healing

Doctors can treat most clavicle fractures without surgery. The most significant goals would be to keep the bone in place and to manage pain. If done right, collarbones don’t take long to heal, compared to other fractures. In as little as 4 weeks, the splint can be removed. Anyone experiencing a fall, injury, or collision and suspecting a fractured collarbone should see a doctor immediately.

Broken Collarbone (Clavicle Fracture): Symptoms, Treatment, Healing

Overview

What is a clavicle fracture?

A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone. You have two clavicles — long, slender, S-shaped bones connecting the shoulders to the upper chest. Broken collarbones are common, making up about 5% of all adult bone fractures.

Are there different kinds of clavicle fractures?

A collarbone can crack in one place or break into several pieces (comminuted fracture). The broken pieces may still line up or may end up out of place (displaced fracture).

Symptoms and Causes

How do people break their collarbones?

A clavicle breaks when force or pressure causes it to snap. Common causes are:

• Collisions (trauma) when an arm is outstretched, like during skiing, hockey, football and other sports.
• Direct hits to the clavicle, such as in a car accident.
• Falls onto the clavicle or an extended arm.
• Passing through the birth canal for a baby.

What are the symptoms of a broken collarbone?

If you break your collarbone, you may experience:

• Snapping or grinding noise when the bone breaks.
• Sharp pain, which gets worse when you move that area.
• Shoulder slumping down or forward because the bone no longer supports it.
• Difficulty moving or lifting the arm, with a possible grinding feeling when you do.
• Bruising, swelling or tenderness in the area.
• Bump that you can see through the skin.
• Numbness or “pins and needles” (less often).
• Bone poking through the skin, with bleeding (rarely).

Diagnosis and Tests

How is a clavicle fracture diagnosed?

If you think you’ve broken your clavicle, seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare provider will:

• Ask you to describe what happened.
• Examine the area.
• Take X-rays of the injured area to confirm a broken bone. X-rays can also show exactly where the break is, how bad it is and whether any other bones broke.

If the healthcare provider thinks there’s damage to a joint or artery, you may get more tests:

• Arteriography/arteriogram, which uses X-rays and dye to see inside the arteries.
• CT scans, which provide more detailed pictures than X-rays.
• Ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create pictures of what’s happening in the body.

Management and Treatment

What should I do if I break my clavicle?

If you think you broke your collarbone, take these steps immediately:

• Put your arm in a sling to stop it from moving. You can create a sling from a piece of cloth like a towel or shirt. Wrap it around your arm and fasten it to the back of your neck to hold up your arm.
• Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Examples include ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen, (Aleve®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) if it doesn’t interfere with your other medications or health issues.
• Call a healthcare provider or go to the emergency room.

What does a healthcare provider do to treat a broken collarbone?

Most clavicle fractures don’t need surgery. If the broken parts of the bone are in a good position to heal, healthcare providers may recommend:

• Arm support: A sling can help you feel more comfortable as you heal. It can also prevent broken parts of bone from moving around.
• Medication: Over-the-counter medications can relieve pain as the bone heals. Some healthcare providers may prescribe stronger drugs, such as opioids, for a very short period of time. Those come with risk of drug addiction, though, and should be used only if really necessary
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you special exercises. These exercises can improve motion in your arm, strengthen your shoulder and prevent stiffness. You may do the exercises in a physical therapist’s office, at home or both.

What if I need surgery?

Sometimes you need surgery to treat a broken collarbone, like when:

• Blood vessels or nerves get injured.
• Fractures break through the skin.
• Pieces of broken collarbone are not in a good position to heal.

Surgery to treat a clavicle fracture is called open reduction and internal fixation. The operation puts broken pieces of collarbone back where they belong (reduction). It then uses metal devices to keep the pieces in place (fixation). An orthopaedic surgeon (specialist in bone and muscle injuries) may perform the procedure using:

• Plates and screws attached to the outer surfaces of the bone. The hardware usually isn’t removed after the bone heals, unless it causes discomfort (this usually happens a year or more after the surgery).
• Pins or screws through the bone. They are usually removed once the fracture has healed.

Prevention

How can I prevent a clavicle fracture?

Clavicle fractures happen suddenly and are difficult to prevent. But certain things can help keep your bones safer:

• Drive safely and wear a seatbelt when riding in a vehicle.
• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of calcium to keep your bones strong.
• Use good technique and body positioning for any sports you play or activities you do (such as bike riding).
• Wear protective gear when playing sports or participating in hobbies.

Outlook / Prognosis

What is the outlook for a broken clavicle without surgery?

Most collarbone fractures heal in six to eight weeks, without surgery or complications. Most people are able to start getting back to normal activities by three months or so, but full recovery may take up to six to 12 months.

You may feel a bump where the fracture healed. The bump may get smaller on its own over time, but it might never go away completely. You may also have less strength in your shoulder and arm. But unless you have other injuries, you can often return to normal activities within a few weeks.

What is the outlook for a broken clavicle with surgery?

If you have surgery, you may feel the plate or other hardware inside your body. You’ll also have limited use of your arm for six to eight weeks. After that, you can start using it for normal daily activities such as bathing, dressing and eating. You should wait for your healthcare provider’s permission before doing things that involve lifting, pulling or pushing. You should also wait to play sports. In general, recovery is similar to treating a broken clavicle without surgery with return to normal activity around three months or so and full recovery up to six to 12 months after surgery.

While your break heals, you should follow-up with your surgeon or other healthcare provider to make sure you don’t have complications. Complications after surgery may include:

• Malunion: If the pieces of bone move out of place and heal in the wrong position, healthcare providers call it a malunion. It may need surgery.
• Pain and stiffness: Sometimes the shoulder can get very stiff or painful after surgery. Your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy or remove any irritating pieces of hardware.
• Wound problems: The place where the surgeon cut your skin may have trouble healing, get infected or bleed.

Living With

What can I do to make sure I heal after a broken collarbone?

Whether you have surgery or not, you should go to all your follow-up appointments. At those checkups, your healthcare provider will:

• Check the motion in your shoulder.
• Talk to you about how you feel and whether you still have pain.
• Take more X-rays if needed.

You should also follow all exercise advice from your healthcare provider and physical therapist. Physical therapy can be slow and uncomfortable, but it’s important if you want to return to your normal activities.

In the first few weeks of physical therapy, you will do gentle exercises to help prevent stiffness and pain. You will eventually start exercises with light weights and stretchy bands. Once the bone fragments rejoin, you will do more aggressive strength training.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone that’s often painful. Most people don’t need surgery, but some require an operation to put the pieces of bone back in place. Physical therapy is important to get you back to daily activities. Talk to your healthcare provider about exercises to reduce pain and stiffness and regain strength.

Three Stages of the Broken Collarbone Treatment for Mountain Bikers

Broken Collarbones Can Set You Back. Here’s What to Expect from Treatment.

The physical debilitation that follows a break of the collarbone is painfully frustrating for patients of all kinds. This frustration is especially high among mountain bikers, however, who are longing to be liberated from the impairments of their injury and the restrictions that come with broken collarbone treatment. And it certainly doesn’t help when summer has arrived and mountain biking season is at its prime peak.

Unfortunately, mountain bikers are, in fact, among the most likely persons to have to suffer a broken collarbone. Mountain bikers experience an average of 16.8 injuries per athletic exposure. Of these mountain biking accidents, broken collarbones represent one of the most frequently experienced serious orthopaedic injuries.

If you’ve experienced a collarbone injury while biking, effective treatment, a speedy recovery, and a return to mountain biking activity are likely your top priorities. You likely also have questions and concerns about the treatment and recovery process ahead.

The Treatment and Recovery Process

At Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, our Sports Medicine specialists can provide you with the most effective care available. Our advanced treatments and clinical expertise ensures that you will have the fastest recovery possible and the lasting results needed to restore your active lifestyle. Before treatment even begins, however, we can offer you the clarification and reassurance you’re looking for regarding the broken collarbone treatment process.

Learn about the three major stages of the treatment process and the broken collarbone recovery time you can anticipate below.

Stage One: Diagnosis and Consultation

The first stage of treatment is the diagnostic stage. Broken collarbones, or clavicle fractures, vary greatly, and the nature of the break will determine the type of treatment needed.

Diagnostic procedures will begin with a physical examination performed by your doctor, an assessment of symptoms, and a conversation about how the injury occurred. Imaging tests will also be performed, including a broken collarbone X-ray and, in some cases, a CT scan.

Most clavicle fractures experienced by mountain bikers occur due to a fall from the bike with outstretched hands, which sends impactful shock up the arm to the shoulder and collarbone. This usually causes the bone to fracture along the middle portion of the shaft; breaks at the point of attachment to the ribcage may also occur.

The treatment that is recommended in your particular case will depend upon where and how the clavicle is fractured. If the bone fragments have stayed relatively aligned, non-surgical treatment may be sufficient. If a displaced fracture (bone fragments out of alignment) or comminuted fracture (many small bone fragments) has occurred, surgery will likely be necessary.

Stage Two: Treatment (Surgical or Non-Operative)

The treatment proper stage will be the shortest; but it will also be the most impactful.

If you are a candidate for non-surgical care, you will likely be prescribed a combination of the following treatments:

• Supportive Devices: A broken collarbone cast, broken collarbone sling, or broken collarbone brace to hold the fractured bone in place and enable healing.

• Physical Therapy: Patients will be prescribed a personalized physical therapy plan to build musculoskeletal strength and prevent immobility.

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory pain medication will often be prescribed.

Patients with displaced or severely fractured collar bones require surgery to restore the structure of the clavicle. Surgery is also frequently recommended for active patients, such as mountain bikers. The most common surgical procedure for clavicle fractures is an operation known as open reduction and internal fixation.

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation: During this surgical procedure, bone fragments are repositioned into proper alignment; then, plates and screws are installed to hold the bone fragments in place.

Stage Three: Recovery and Restoration

After your treatment has concluded, you will transition into the recovery stage.

Recovery will involve immobilization while your collarbone recovers. As healing occurs, physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises will be used to restore strength and function. As needed, pain will be managed with medication. Follow-up meetings with your orthopaedic specialist will likewise be an important component of recovery, both to ensure that healing is progressing properly and to monitor for any possible complications.

It takes several months for full healing of a broken collarbone to occur. Most patients will be able to return to normal activity within three months. Consult with your physician before resuming high-impact mountain biking activity.

Broken Collarbone Treatment at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute

Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is proud to offer injured mountain bikers the most effective broken collarbone treatments available. To learn more about treatment options at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute or to schedule an appointment, please visit us here or contact us at 1-800-321-9999.

Collarbone Fracture Sydney | Osteoporosis Randwick

What is a Collarbone?

The clavicle, which is commonly known as the collarbone, is the bone found on both sides of the chest that connects the sternum or breastbone to both shoulders. It is the strut providing shoulder offset.

The clavicle sits above several important nerves and blood vessels.

What is a Collarbone Fracture?

A fractured clavicle is the medical term used when the collarbone is broken.

The clavicle is the most commonly fractured bone in the body. The principal cause of a broken collarbone is trauma (sports injuries, car accidents, falls). Rare causes include diseases that weaken the collarbone such as osteoporosis or cancer.

Collarbone fracture symptoms

Fractured collarbone sufferers have the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Sagging shoulder (down and forward)
• Inability to lift the arm because of pain
• A grinding sensation if an attempt is made to raise the arm
• A deformity or “bump” over the break
• Bruising, swelling, and tenderness over the collarbone

Diagnosis of Collarbone Fracture

Diagnosis is made with a consultation – During the consultation Dr Harper will:

• take a medical history : specifically assessing the amount of energy absorbed in the trauma. Commonly associated injuries such as scapula, rib fractures and/or haemothorax will be explored.
• perform a physical examination: looking for clavicular deformity, scapula asymmetry and bruising. Range of motion is limited and may be associated with crunching at the fracture site.
• Imaging tests -X-rays – an x-ray will define the break: the number of pieces and the degree of separation of the fragments. X-rays of the shoulder will be done to check for additional injuries (eg. scapula fracture).

While not all of these approaches or tests are required to confirm the diagnosis, this diagnostic process will also allow Dr Harper to review any possible risks or existing conditions that could interfere with the fracture management or its outcome.

Treatment for Collarbone Fracture.

If the broken ends of the bones have not shifted out of place and line up correctly, the patient is treated non-operatively. Broken collarbones have a high healing rate without surgery. If the patient’s bones are displaced, surgery may be appropriate to align the bones and hold them in position while they heal. This can improve shoulder function after recovery.

Non Surgical Treatment can include:

• Arm support
• Medication
• Physical Therapy

The patient will need to see your doctor until the fracture heals. The fracture can move out of place before it heals. If the bone heals in the wrong position, called a “malunion”, it can affect the patient’s shoulder function..

Collarbone Fracture Surgery

Plates and screws can be used to reposition and hold the bones into their normal alignment. The anatomic S shaped metal plates are applied to the upper surface of the bone.

Non-Operative treatment of Collarbone Fracture Risks

A Collarbone Fracture is not life threatening but can impact a patient’s quality of life and function.

Collarbone Fractures can lead in the

• Short Term – to pain, sleep disturbance and disability.
• Long Term – to malunion or non-union, that can result in ongoing pain and loss of function .

CT scan showing non-union of the clavicle.

Surgery Risks

As with any major surgery there are potential risks involved. The decision to proceed with the surgery is made because the advantages of surgery outweigh the potential disadvantages.

It is important that the patient is informed of these risks before the surgery takes place.

Complications can be general or specific to collarbone fracture surgery.

General complications include those of the anesthetic and your general well being. Almost any medical condition can occur so this list is not complete. Complications include:

• Allergic reactions to medications or anaesthetic.
• Complications from nerve blocks are rare but can include nerve damage that usually resolves.
• Blood Clots (Deep Venous Thrombosis) – occur very rarely after shoulder surgery. Blood clots can form in the arm or leg muscles and can travel to the lung (Pulmonary embolism). These can occasionally be serious and even life threatening. If the patient suffers arm pain, redness or swelling, or have shortness of breath at any stage, contact Dr Harper, your GP or your local hospital.

Serious medical problems can lead to ongoing health concerns, prolonged hospitalisation or rarely death.

Specific complications for surgery are rare but may include:

• Infection – Infections can occur superficially at the incision or deep and involve the plate. Infection rates for clavicle surgery are
• Shoulder Stiffness – Shoulder stiffness with loss of range of motion is a common complication that can be minimized with adequate analgesia and adherence to your therapy program prescribed by your surgeon.
• Damage to nerves of Blood Vessels – The surgical incision required to insert a plate divides some small skin nerves over the front of the shoulder causing a numb patch that improves over 18 months but may never reach the same sensitivity as the non-operated side. It is very rare to injure a nerve that can lead to weakness or loss of movement in part of the arm. Damage to blood vessels may require further surgery if bleeding is ongoing.

Preparation for Collar Bone Surgery

If surgery is selected as the treatment of choice, preparation is necessary to achieve the best results and recovery.

Preparing mentally and physically for surgery is an important step toward a successful result.

• Dr Harper will outline the treatment plan and
• patients will need to understand the process and their participation.

Dr Harper will also discuss:

• any medications being taken, to see which ones should be stopped before surgery
• fasting times: do not eat or drink anything, including water, for 6 hours before surgery
• stop taking aspirin, warfarin, anti-inflammatory medications or drugs that increase the risk of bleeding one week before surgery to minimise bleeding
• stop or cut down smoking to reduce your surgery risks and improve your recovery

Report any infections (dental, skin, chest, urinary) to Dr Harper prior to surgery as the procedure cannot be performed until all infections have cleared up.

Post Surgery

The patient will wake up in the recovery room and then be transferred back to their hospital room after about 45minutes.

• Pain medication will be provided to keep the patient comfortable.
• A bandage will be around the operated shoulder and the arm will be in a sling or brace.
• The sling will be worn for comfort only.

Dr Harper will see the patient prior to discharge and explain the findings of the operation and what was done during surgery.

• The bandage will usually be removed before discharge and waterproof dressings applied.
• It is normal for the shoulder to swell after the surgery. Placing Ice-Packs on the shoulder will help to reduce swelling. Ice packs should be applied to the area for 20 min 3-4 times a day until swelling has reduced.

The patient should keep a pillow under their elbow while lying in bed.

• The patient will not be allowed to lift anything over your head or anything greater than 1 kilo for the first 6 weeks.
• 10- 14 days after surgery Dr Harper will see the patient to monitor their progress and remove the sutures.

It is recommended that the patient not drive while wearing a sling due to safety reasons.

The patient will be given specific instructions regarding activity and a rehabilitation program of exercise and strengthening.

Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing.

Rehabilitation and Recovery After Clavicle Fracture Surgery

Surgery for a clavicle fracture (broken collarbone) is typically done on an outpatient basis, so patients will go home the same day as surgery and will need to arrange for someone to take them home.

See Clavicle Fractures: Types and Symptoms

A sling is worn for 2 to 3 weeks after surgery for comfort and to help patients avoid movements that may impede healing. After surgery there are some movement restrictions—particularly for weight-bearing activities—but patients will be encouraged to continue to move the elbow, wrist and hand to prevent stiffness.

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Patients will also be encouraged to do an exercise known as the pendulum exercise, which is done as follows:

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Pendulum exercise.

• Remove the arm sling and stand beside a table.
• Lean forward and rest the hand of the non-affected arm on the table.
• Allow the affected arm to straighten and dangle freely.
• Gently swing the affected arm forward, backward, and in a circle for 2 to 3 minutes.

In This Article:

Once physicians confirm during follow-up visits that the bone is healing properly, the sling can be discontinued and normal range-of-motion activity can be resumed. Patients will also begin a course of physical therapy, which is a critical part of the recovery process to help regain strength and stability.

Removing surgical hardware
Depending on the type of surgery used to fix the bone in place, patients may also need a follow-up procedure to remove hardware.

Plate fixations usually stay in place, with intramedullary fixations sometimes involving removal of the pin once the bone is healed.

Typically patients are placed into a sling for a week or two to allow for healing of the incision, and then allowed gradual activity.

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Return to normal activities
Most clavicle fractures heal after about 6 to 12 weeks. Generally, normal activity can be resumed after 6 weeks, and participation in contact sports being permitted after healing is observed. Athletes can work with their physicians to confirm when they are cleared to resume play.

90,000 Symptoms and Treatment for a Broken Clavicle – Health

The clavicle, also called the collarbone, is the bone above the upper chest, between the sternum (sternum) and the scapula (shoulder blade). The collarbone is easy to feel, because, unlike other bones covered in mouse

Contents

The clavicle, also called the collarbone, is the bone above the upper chest, between the sternum (sternum) and the shoulder blade (shoulder blade). The collarbone is easy to feel because, unlike other bones covered with muscle, only the skin covers most of the bone.

Clavicle fractures are extremely common. Broken collarbones occur in babies (usually during childbirth), children and adolescents (since the collarbone does not complete its development until late adolescence), in athletes (due to the risk of being hit or dropped), or in many types of accidents and falls. Clavicle fractures account for 2 to 5% of all fractures.

Symptoms of a fracture of the clavicle

Most often, patients with a fracture of the clavicle complain of pain in the shoulder and difficulty moving the arm.Common symptoms of this injury include:

• Pain over the clavicle
• Deformation of the clavicle
• Swelling and bruising around the shoulder. Over time, the bruise can spread to the chest and armpits.
• Difficulty raising the arm from the side
• Numbness and tingling may occur in the arm.

An x-ray will be taken at the doctor’s office or emergency room to determine the specific type of collarbone fracture. Your doctor will also do a physical exam to make sure the nerves and blood vessels surrounding the collarbone are intact.Nerves and blood vessels are rarely damaged by a fracture of the clavicle, but in severe cases, associated injuries can occur.

Types of clavicle fractures

Usually, clavicle fractures are divided into three types of injuries, depending on the location of the fracture:

• Clavicle fractures of the middle part of the diaphysis (75%)
• The most common type of clavicle fracture is the central third of the bone. These injuries can be simple fractures in the bone or severely displaced.Particular concerns arise with multiple bone fractures (segmental fractures), significant displacement (dissection), or reduction in the length of the bone.
• Fractures of the distal clavicle (20%)
• Fractures of the distal clavicle occur in the immediate vicinity of the end of the clavicle in the shoulder joint. This part of the shoulder is called the acromioclavicular (AK) joint, and fractures of the distal clavicle often require treatment similar to an injury to the AK joint.
• Fractures of the medial clavicle (5%)
• Fractures of the medial clavicle are much less common and are often associated with damage to the sternoclavicular joint.One of the last growth plates that closes in the body is at the medial end of the clavicle, and therefore clavicle growth plate fractures can be seen in late adolescence and early twenties.

Treating clavicle fractures

Treating a fractured clavicle is either by healing the bone or by performing a surgical procedure to restore the bone to its correct position and hold it in place. Unlike many other fractures, some common bone fracture treatments are not suitable for clavicle fractures.A casting fracture of the clavicle is not performed. In addition, bone repair (called closed reduction) is not performed because it is impossible to keep the bone in alignment without surgery.

When deciding on surgery, the doctor may take into account some of the following factors:

• Location of the fracture and the degree of bone displacement (fractures without displacement or with minimal displacement, should be treated without surgery)
• Shortening of the fracture fragment (even fractures can heal displaced, but with significant shortening of the clavicle, this may not be so well tolerated)
• Other injuries that may have occurred (patients with head injuries or multiple fractures can be treated without surgery)
• Patient age (younger patients recover better from fractures without surgical intervention)
• Patient expectations (when the injury touches an athlete, a heavy worker or a dominant limb, there may be more reasons for surgery)
• Hand dominance (when fractures occur in the dominant hand, this can be noticeable with a strong displacement of the eloma)

Your doctor can discuss the pros and cons of surgery with you.Although the vast majority of clavicle fractures can be healed without surgery, surgery can provide better results in some situations.

Several types of supports are used for the non-surgical treatment of clavicle fractures. These include a sling or a figure-of-eight shackle. A figure-of-eight has not been shown to affect fracture alignment, and many patients generally find a sling more comfortable.

Heal a broken clavicle

Clavicle fractures should heal completely within 12-16 weeks, but pain usually resolves within a few weeks.Often, patients return to full activity before 12 weeks, especially in younger patients. Immobilization rarely takes longer than a few weeks, at which point light activity and light movement can usually begin.

As a general rule, nothing should make the pain worse to return to work. If wearing the dressing is painful, wear it. If driving damages the fracture site, do not drive. If it hurts to throw the ball, don’t throw.If an action does not cause significant pain, you can try to return to it gradually.

Restoration is usually complete, full refund expected. Patients may notice a persistent lump at the site of the fracture (often over months or longer), but this should not be a concern.

A word from Verywell

Clavicle fractures are very common orthopedic injuries and can occur in almost any age group. The vast majority of clavicle fractures can be treated with non-surgical methods, usually a simple bandage is sufficient.Sometimes, when the fractures of the clavicle are very misaligned, surgery can help. There are usually treatment options, and start by discussing the pros and cons of different treatments with your orthopedic surgeon.

90,000 3 ways to heal a collar bone fracture

The clavicle, also called the clavicle, is a long, thin bone at the base of the front of the neck that connects the sternum (sternum) and the shoulder girdle. A person has two collarbones: right and left.A broken collarbone is a fairly common injury, especially in children and young adults, because the bone does not fully harden until adulthood (about 20 years). Common causes of collarbone fractures include falls, sports injuries, and road traffic injuries. A broken collarbone requires immediate medical attention to determine the severity and any associated complications, although in most cases it heals well after rest, dressing, cold therapy, pain relief, and physical therapy.

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Steps

Method One of 3: Seek Emergency Medicine

1. One See your doctor as soon as possible. If you are seriously injured in a fall or car accident and experience severe pain – especially when combined with a banging sound – go to the nearest hospital or clinic for a medical examination. A broken collarbone causes severe pain in the shoulder and upper chest area and interferes with most movements of the forearm, especially those involving raising and reaching the arm.Other signs and symptoms include bruising, swelling and / or a bulge over the fracture site, grinding and pain when moving the arm, and sometimes numbness and / or tingling in the arm.

   • X-rays, bone scans, and MRI scans are tools that doctors use to diagnose the location and severity of fractures – small clavicle fractures along the hairline may not show up on an X-ray until the inflammation subsides (up to a week or so) …
   • If the broken collarbone is considered difficult – there are many fragments, the overlying skin is damaged and / or the parts are severely displaced – then surgery will be required.Only 5 to 10% of clavicle fractures require surgery.
   • The clavicle usually breaks right in the middle and much less often at the attachments to the sternum or shoulder blades.

2. 2 Buy an arm band or support. Broken clavicles cannot be removed due to their anatomical position – it is impossible to immobilize the bone or the general area with a plaster cast. Instead, a simple arm band, or figure-of-eight, or splint is usually used for support and comfort immediately after a collarbone fracture.A figure-of-eight splint wraps around and both shoulders and base of neck to support the injured side and keep it up and back. Sometimes a larger strip is wound around the sling to keep it closer to the body. You will need to wear a bandage or support all the time until the pain on movement is gone – this usually takes two to four weeks for children and four to eight weeks for adults.

   • You will get a bandage or support if you go to a hospital or emergency clinic, although these are also available at most pharmacies and health care stores.
   • Slings come in all sizes, including those suitable for small children, as the collarbone is the most commonly broken bone in children – usually from falling onto an outstretched arm.

3. 3 Take pain relievers briefly. Your doctor will likely recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin as a short-term solution to help you manage the pain and inflammation associated with your broken collarbone.Alternatively, you may be given pain relievers such as paracetamol (Tylenol) or opioids (such as Vicodin). Be aware that these medications can be hard on the stomach, kidneys, and liver, so it is best not to take them continuously for longer than a couple of weeks. Opioids can be addictive, so use them exactly as your doctor tells you to.

   • Children under the age of 18 should not take or give aspirin as it is associated with life-threatening Reye’s syndrome.
   • For more severe fractures that cause severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications during your hospital stay, such as morphine-like opiates, but be aware that they can be addictive and addictive if abused.

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Method 2 of 3: Treating a Clavicle Fracture at Home

1. One Press on the injured collarbone and apply ice. After you are discharged from the hospital or clinic, you will be asked to rest your arm and apply ice to the injury while you have a bandage or splint on your arm to reduce swelling and relieve pain. On the first day after the fracture, apply ice or cold therapy for 20 minutes every hour while you are awake.For the next two to four days, examine the sore and painful area every three to four hours for 20 minutes at a time. When using cold therapy and taking NSAIDs, inflammation should go away in a week.

   • Depending on your job and if you have injured your dominant arm, you may need to take a few weeks off to recuperate. In general, healing takes four to six weeks in young people and up to 12 weeks in older people.
   • Young athletes are often able to resume sports up to eight weeks after a collarbone fracture, but this depends on the severity of the fracture, the type of sport, and many other factors.Consult your doctor when you can resume full activity, including sports.
   • If you don’t have ice on hand, you can use frozen gel bags or flexible freezer vegetable bags — corn or peas are best. Never apply cold therapy directly to your skin, as it can cause ice burns or frostbite – wrap a thin towel over it first.

2. 2 When the pain subsides, slightly move your hand. After a few weeks, when the inflammation has disappeared and the pain has largely disappeared, remove the bandage for a short time and slightly mobilize the arm and shoulder. Do not aggravate it so that the pulsation begins again, but carefully return various movements to the affected joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Gain slowly, perhaps starting with a cup of coffee and gradually increasing your weight to 5 pounds, and start wearing less sling. Your collarbone should move slightly in the early stages of injury to stimulate bone healing.

   • Inactivity and complete immobilization of the shoulder / arm in proportion to the time taken to heal will result in a loss of minerals in the bone, which is counterproductive for a broken bone trying to regain its strength. Certain movements and weight bearing seem to attract more minerals to the bones, making them stronger and less likely to break in the future.
   • Bone healing is divided into three stages: the reactive stage (a blood clot forms between the two ends of the fracture), the repair stage (specialized cells begin to form a callus covering the fracture) and the remodeling stage (the bone is created and the injury slowly recovers to its original shape).

3. 3 Eat especially well during the recovery phase. Your bones, like any other tissue in your body, need all the nutrients they need to heal properly and quickly. A balanced diet high in minerals and vitamins has been shown to help heal broken collarbones and other bones. So try to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and drink plenty of purified water and milk to give your body the building blocks it needs to repair your collarbone.

   • On the other hand, avoid foods that can impair your healing, such as alcohol, soda, fast food, and foods made with a lot of refined sugar.
   • Minerals and protein are important for strong and healthy bones. Excellent food sources include: dairy, tofu, beans, broccoli, nuts and seeds, sardines, and salmon.

4. 4 Consider taking a supplement during your recovery. While it is always beneficial to get the nutrients you need from a well-balanced diet, adding key minerals and vitamins that promote bone healing will ensure that your higher needs are met without increasing your calorie intake. Eating more calories combined with less physical activity often leads to weight gain, which is undesirable after the collarbone or any injury has healed. Remember to buy quality supplements with minimal or no binders and fillers, as your body absorbs them better.

   • Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are the main minerals found in bones, so look for a supplement that contains all three. Adults need 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day (depending on their age and gender), but you may need more for the collarbone to heal – ask your doctor or dietitian.
   • Important trace minerals to consider include zinc, iron, boron, copper and silicon. A good multi-mineral supplement should include all of these.
   • Important vitamins that promote bone healing include vitamins C, D and K.Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Vitamin D is critical for the absorption of minerals in the intestines, and as a bonus, your skin produces it in response to intense sunlight. Vitamin K binds calcium to bones and stimulates collagen formation.

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Method 3 of 3: Seeking Clavicle Rehabilitation

1. One Get a referral to a physiotherapist. After you permanently remove the bandage or splint, you may notice that the muscles around your shoulder and upper chest look slightly smaller and / or appear weaker.If so, then you need to consider some form of physical rehabilitation. Rehabilitation can begin when you are free of pain and are able to perform virtually all arm / shoulder movements. A physical therapist can show you specific rehabilitation exercises to restore muscle strength, joint mobility, and flexibility.

   • Physical therapy is usually required two to three times a week for at least four weeks to significantly strengthen the affected area.
   • A physical therapist can also stimulate and strengthen your weaker shoulder and chest muscles with electrotherapy, such as electronic muscle stimulation.
   • Most people return to their normal activities within three months of an uncomplicated collarbone fracture, although age and previous health conditions are important factors.

2. 2 Make an appointment with a chiropractor or osteopath. Chiropractors and osteopaths are physicians who specialize in musculoskeletal injury and focus on creating normal movement and function within joints, bones, and muscles.After the clavicle and shoulder girdle has healed, the associated joints may become stiff or slightly deformed. A chiropractor or osteopath may use manual joint manipulation, also called adjustments, to reposition joints that are misaligned due to injury that damaged the collarbone. Healthy, movable joints allow bones and muscles to function properly and reduce the risk of developing degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) in the future.

   • It is common to hear a “popping” sound when adjusting a joint that has nothing to do with the “crackling” sound associated with a bone fracture.
   • Although a single manual adjustment can sometimes restore full joint mobility and eliminate stiffness, it is more than likely that it will take three to five treatments to achieve significant results.

3. 3 Try acupuncture. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice of inserting fine needles at specific energy points on the skin to relieve pain and inflammation, which is initially beneficial for a broken collarbone, and potentially stimulate healing.Acupuncture is generally not recommended for the treatment of bone fractures and should only be considered as a second priority, but anecdotal reports suggest that it may stimulate the healing of fractures and other types of injuries. Acupuncture has a very good safety record and is worth trying if your budget allows.

   • Acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation by releasing various compounds in the body, in particular endorphins and serotonin.
   • Acupuncture stimulates the flow of energy, which practitioners often refer to as qi, which may be the key to stimulating the healing of bones and other tissues.
   • Acupuncture is practiced by many healthcare professionals, including some doctors, chiropractors, naturopaths, physical therapists and massage therapists – whoever you choose must be NCCAOM certified.

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Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question How do I know if the collarbone is broken or is it just growing pains? A broken collarbone will make you practically scream in pain.
• Question How do I know if my collarbone is broken? It will hurt a lot, and you may have heard a crackling sound when you fell.See your doctor for an X-ray of your collarbone to check if it is broken.
• Question Can I peel potatoes, peel vegetables and cook dinner? Probably. You must maintain good functionality of the affected arm while it is in a very narrow range of motion.
• Question: If I need to wear a bandage and a bandage because of a broken bone, can I remove the bandage at night? No, night is the most important time to keep your collarbone from moving.

Unanswered Questions

• Is there a way to permanently prevent re-dislocations after a shoulder dislocation? Answer

Ask a question 200 characters left Please include your email address to receive a message when this question is answered.Place
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Tips

• Osteoporosis (fragile bones) increases the risk of fractures of the entire skeleton, including the bones of the upper limbs.
• Most broken collarbones are diagnosed as “stress” or “hair” fractures, which means a small superficial fracture that is not severe enough to dislodge bones or break the surface of the skin.
• Refrain from smoking tobacco because smokers have been shown to have a harder time treating broken bones.
• The clavicle is also the most common bone fractured during difficult labor, often as a result of an awkward position in the womb or a condition called shoulder dystocia.

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Warning

• Doing not Use this article as a substitute for medical care! Always seek medical advice.

Power healing – what is it and why does it bomb everyone so much from its use in Episode IX? | Yesterday’s news

The ninth episode of Star Wars showed us a variety of ways and methods of controlling the Force – from pulling objects and tactical clairvoyance to storms of the Force and healing it. From the last skill, the fans of the Far, Far Galaxy flared especially strongly, in many reviews they wrote that it completely breaks the balance in the universe, about why Obi-Wan Kenobi did not save Qui-Gon so, and Anakin did not save Padmé.

Imagine Obi-Wan treating Qui-Gon like this. Quite in trend of the 2010s =)

Imagine Obi-Wan treating Qui-Gon like that. Quite in trend of the 2010s =)

Today we will try to figure out how healing worked in the old canon, what we saw in the new one, and why the indignation about it is unfair.

More about the mysteries of the Force:

What’s wrong with the balance of the Force?

What was the healing of the Force in the old canon?

You might be surprised, but Force healing first appeared back in 1977 in the original Star Wars.At least Wookieepedia claims that it was with the Force that Obi-Wan Kenobi removed the effects of the injuries inflicted on Luke by the Tusken. True, this moment is not obvious, so really the first appearance of this ability can be credited to the game Star Wars: Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II. Purely gameplay, it was an excellent replacement for first aid kits, which were not found everywhere, but were required constantly. Exactly on the same principle, the healing of the Force was used in another cult game in the universe – Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

In Jedi Knight there were three levels of ability – on the third one could heal right on the run, if only the points of Strength were enough

In Jedi Knight there were three levels of ability – on the third one could be healed right on the run, if only points of Strength were enough

Po the general lore of the healing of the Force had to be studied diligently. Initially, the ability required meditation in order to heal minor injuries. Subsequently, a Jedi with this ability could heal the most serious injuries in a short time and even completely restore the destroyed internal organs.

This is not to say that the ability was rare or unavailable. The only limitation was that only a Jedi could own it. In addition to the heroes of the games – Kyle Katarn, Mara Jade, Jaden Korr, as well as the knights of the Old Republic (here, depending on the choice of the player, but in the first part the game automatically pumped the corresponding skill Bastille Shan), Ki-Adi-Mundi was shown who owned this technique , who was healing his broken collarbone, and also, as mentioned, possessed by Obi-Wan.

At the same time, no one was outraged why Obi-Wan did not heal Qui-Gon in the first episode.

What do we see now?

The new canon, as we know, has a very weak elaboration of the main things. The new expanded universe does not so much bring something new as it fills in the gaps in the plot of new episodes. However, the healing of the Force appeared there as well. In Episode IX, Rey first heals an earthworm and then a lightsaber wound inflicted on Kylo Ren. Subsequently, Kylo Ren himself brings Rey back to life, dying after that himself. And in the Mandalorian, the Child resorts to this ability.

Yes, smallYoda can do this too

Yes, smallYoda can do this too

The mechanics of this ability, by the way, is explained – you just need to breathe a part of your Power into the wound (or the victim’s body) – and the Power will heal it. Through this, in fact, Kylo Ren died – weakened by the confrontation with Palpatine and giving the remnants of the Force to Rey.

Why is it bombing like that?

You guys just don’t like Rei, because the use of the Force healing with shallow Yoda does not bother anyone and does not cause such a bombardment =) In fact, of course, those who do not accept new films and their characters will not accept their abilities, which arise spontaneously and then spontaneously disappear somewhere.

This is, of course, the fault of the Star Wars script group. Instead of carefully processing the entire meta of the universe, choosing from there those elements that will not contradict the films, and then carefully introducing them, the guys chopped off a huge chunk of information in one fell swoop, and now they are trying to sew it to the bleeding place again.

Rey in this case, we get a real Mary Sue, who can do everything, has an incredible potential, a great pedigree, a yellow sword, Bright Power, booty with a hole. Hence the claim to this point in the film.

Hooray, I am a hero, butt with a hole!

Hurray, I am a hero, butt with a hole!

And Obi-Wan did not save Qui-Gon, because he was a Padawan and did not know how to heal. And Anakin became a victim of a self-fulfilling prophecy, and when it was necessary to save Padmé, he was already on the dark side, although being a Jedi, he did not particularly delve into the use of the Force, relying mainly on a lightsaber.

What do you think about this? Write your opinion in the comments!

Draw yourself – Newspaper Kommersant № 54 (5086) from 29.03.2013

The girl is five years old. She has osteogenesis imperfecta – increased fragility of bones. To enable the girl to walk, metal pins were inserted into the bones of her legs and thighs. But they inserted it unsuccessfully. One of the pins fell off and pierced Lyuba’s knee joint. Now – all over again. The pins need to be rearranged. It is more difficult than implanting them for the first time, but after the operation the girl will be able to walk again.

At first, Lyuba did not want to walk at all. She simply could not get it into her head – to walk.She had fractures since infancy. She never went. And until she was four years old, she did not ask my mother questions about why other kids were walking, but Lyuba did not. Most likely, Lyuba did not see or barely saw the other children. And if she saw, then she considered them some other biological species. After all, no one is surprised that birds fly, fish swim under water, and people do not fly and do not swim under water without special devices. So Lyuba was not surprised that she didn’t walk, while other children did.

But then she had an operation.Moreover, like many small children, Lyuba did not really understand what happened to her. They brought me to the clinic, fell asleep, woke up. And a few days later the doctor suddenly came and said: “Get up!” Lyuba was surprised and frightened: how is it – get up? Who? I? can I?

They put on orthoses on their legs, put them in a verticalizer and began to teach them to walk a little. Lyuba was crying. She said that standing upright is very scary. She saw other people standing and walking on two legs. But to Lyuba herself, the vertical position seemed to be the height of some balancing act.

Then it began to work. Just stand there. Take a step, two steps, five steps. Do you know this special feeling of delight that you experience while studying any extreme sports? Horseback riding, downhill skiing, sailing on the waves. And at the age of four, Lyuba experienced this very feeling when she learned to walk only. Lyubina’s mother says that there was delight in the girl’s eyes. She took four steps and shouted with burning eyes: “Wow, you! Great!” – how you would shout, for the first time in your life jumping from a springboard or with a parachute.

And she already walked pretty well, but still did not believe that she could walk. This becomes obvious if you go through Lubina’s drawings.

She draws a lot. In her drawings, there are boys, girls, cats, dogs, horses, whom Lyuba especially loves … Mom and Dad … But never, not in a single drawing is Lyuba herself. She just doesn’t seem to know how to draw herself – standing or lying, vertical or horizontal, whole or broken, healthy or sick. She doesn’t even really know if she is human.There was a day when Lyuba seriously believed that she was a doll, a porcelain doll that was easy to break.

Yes, of course, fractures are now less common. Not a dozen in a row, as was the case with Lyuba in early childhood, but only at a break in a year, or even less often. But quite recently Lyuba suddenly broke her arm and collarbone for almost no reason – she caught herself on the corner of the table. And so the girl looked at her broken arm, touched the displaced clavicle bone, cried in pain, and then suddenly said to her mother:

– I am probably not a human being.I’m probably a doll. A person cannot be broken, you can only break a doll.

And for a full hour my mother told Lyuba that a doll differs from a person not in that it is easy to break it, but in that it is easy, unlike a person, to glue it together. And also by the fact that the doll does not feel anything, but the person is in pain.

I don’t know what happens in a person with bones. What processes are going on there inside. Why do children with osteogenesis imperfecta have rather long periods without fractures, and then suddenly there are several fractures in a row?I only know that from the day when the ill-fated pin pierced Lyuba’s knee joint, until the day of the fracture of the arm and collarbone, not much time had passed.

At the time it was time to despair and finally write himself into dolls, but, fortunately, at about the same time Lyuba’s cat fell ill. Cat’s conjunctivitis, cat’s high fever, cat’s dry and hot nose distracted the girl. Lyuba coddled the cat more than her broken arm. The cat’s illness and the cat’s healing finally confirmed Lyuba in the idea that she needed to walk.

You need to walk, firstly, because in kindergarten it is much better to play with children if you walk. If you don’t walk, children start playing with you and then run away. This is how Lyuba explained to me.

Secondly, you need to walk, because it is very inconvenient to crawl on the floor on your butt and at the same time carry a teddy horse. But what about without a horse?

Third, you need to walk in order to find a job.

– What will you do after the operation? – I ask Lyuba.

“I’ll learn to walk and find myself a job right away,” he answers without hesitation.

– Yes? What kind of job?

Answers without hesitation:

– I’ll go where everyone goes to be veterinarians and treat animals.

Valery Panyushkin

Flying with a broken collarbone – Exercise 2021

Acting as a spacer connecting the sternum to the scapula, the clavicle or collarbone, it is one of the most common bones prone to fracture.Johns Hopkins sports medicine notes that clavicle fractures usually occur when force is transferred to the bone, as a result of a fall on an outstretched arm or a hard blow to the shoulder. 5 to 10 percent of all fractures occur in the collarbone. Men under the age of 25 are in the most vulnerable group, especially when they play contact sports such as football and hockey, and compete in extreme sports such as cycling and motocross.

symptoms

To make sure that your collarbone is broken, you should immediately see a doctor who will take an x-ray.Dr. Jason Wilcox, an orthopedic surgeon at the Orthopedic Physician Associates in Seattle, specializes in sports medicine and arthroscopy. His descriptions of a broken collarbone include the initial symptoms of pain and shoulder immobilization. “Pain and deformity at the site of the fracture is the most common, with bruising that follows,” he says. “Sometimes there might be a tent where one of the fragments is pressing against the skin, or worse, a real wound where the fragment pierces the skin.”

Flight considerations

Sometimes a sports injury occurs when athletes are on the road and the doctor determines that it is best for the patient to fly home with the team.During the flight, Dr. Wilcox views comfort as the biggest variable with a broken collarbone. “At this early stage, even subtle movements would be painful, much less a blow from a fellow traveler,” he says. Your doctor may ask you to wear a regular arm band or figure-of-eight wrapper so that you can sit comfortably both immediately after the break and during the flight. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to further relieve pain and reduce swelling before flying.Arrive at the airport as early as possible and check your luggage so you don’t have to transport it. Tell the guard in advance to request early boarding. The assignment of the site is important. For example, if your right collarbone is fractured, sitting in the right seat by the airplane window will best protect your injury from being hit by another passenger. If you have access to a pillow, use it to find the most comfortable position.

treatment

Broken clavicle bones are unlikely to be easy to install.If not severely damaged or with open wounds, broken collarbones are repaired and heal without surgery. Dr. Wilcox notes that some treatments can be controversial, but for more serious clavicle fractures, the bones are treated with some type of fixation – either with plates and screws or other supportive devices. He recalls that “historically, surgical intervention has led to complications, but more recent evidence suggests that complications in wounds have become less common.”

recovery

The exercises suggested by your doctor may be started a week or two after the injury, after which the doctor should clean the sling once he has completely healed. Special exercises or physical therapy may be required to restore flexibility and muscle wasting. Broken bones in adults heal in 6-12 weeks, and Dr. Wilcox argues that there may be variables along the way. “Recovery is based on the patient’s pain and evidence of healing as seen on serial X-rays,” he says.”Once the fragments begin to heal, they become more stable and the flight will certainly be more comfortable.”

90,000 Treatment of improperly fused fractures – Surgery Center CM-Clinic St. Petersburg

Insufficient fixation of the fracture, early removal of the plaster cast, excessive loads when the bone has not yet healed can lead to improper healing of the fracture. Because of this, limb shortening, impaired motor function, muscle atrophy can occur. In order to restore the normal functions of the damaged area of ​​the body, it is necessary to begin treatment of the incorrect healed fracture as early as possible.

Operation

Before prescribing treatment for improperly healed fractures, in order to accurately establish the type of deformity, the doctor will examine the patient, and also prescribe a robe of studies:

• roentgen;
• examination of blood vessels;
• Study of nerve conduction.

Routine preoperative tests will also be ordered to provide a complete picture of the patient’s health. Elimination of bone deformation is carried out exclusively by an operative method.

During the procedure, the doctor re-separates the bones and then fixes them in the correct position. During the intervention, the patient is under anesthesia without experiencing any pain. In some cases (with strong displacement), in addition to eliminating the deformity, bone grafting (bone grafting to replace the damaged area) is indicated.

Recovery

The first day or two, the patient is shown being in the hospital. In total, recovery takes an average of 1.5 months.During this time, the patient must regularly come to the doctor’s examinations to monitor the process of restoring the integrity of the bone.

To avoid re-deformation, it is extremely important to minimize the stress on the injured limb until it is fully restored.

Abnormal bone fusion is a fairly common complication of fractures. Treatment of incorrectly fused fractures requires high professionalism from doctors, since it is necessary to exclude the likelihood of re-deformity.

If your bones have not grown properly after a fracture, then contact the specialists of the medical center “CM-Clinic” for help by phone in St. Petersburg: +7 (812) 435-55-55

Author of the article: Nikitin Alexander Vladimirovich operating traumatologist at the “SM-Clinic”

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90,000 new trauma and surgery / RACING.RU

He can be as tough as a pilot, but at the same time he remains a man of flesh, bones and tendons. Marc Marquez is forced to undergo a new operation after falling on the first day of IRTA MotoGP tests at Circuito de Jerez – a similar problem he barely cured exactly a year ago.

MOTOGONKI.RU, 26 November 2019 – A fall in the last corner of the Circuito de Jerez at the beginning of Monday led Mark to honey.the center of the racetrack, from where he emerged darker than the night. Left shoulder contusion is nonsense compared to recurrent right shoulder dislocation!

As in 2018, this injury is a relapse, that is, not the first. He got his first dislocation during a highside in Sepang, when he was trying to keep up with Fabio Cuartararo in qualifying for the Malaysian Grand Prix. The next time the medics had to adjust the joint was for tests in Valencia – remember the big highside at turn 13, which completely destroyed the 2020 RC213V prototype? After that fall, Mark also ended up at the Mobile Clinic, but quickly returned to duty.

This crash in the Malaysian Grand Prix qualifying set off a destructive chain

Since Sepang, he has acted through pain, including at the Valencia Grand Prix. And now, the fall that should bring him to the operating table – for the second time in 12 months: the right shoulder bag must be repaired as soon as possible in order to have time to recover by February!

“I would certainly like to have a pleasant weekend, enjoy a relaxing break at the end of such a glorious season, but it looks like it’s time for surgery on my right shoulder,” said Marc Marquez after completing tests in Jerez.”Last winter was not easy for me – after surgery on my left, which was very, very badly damaged.”

“I want to avoid this situation with my right shoulder, so I talked to the doctors and tomorrow we will meet in Barcelona to present me with options. The problems started in Motegi after my fall in Malaysia: there I had a subluxation. ”

Marc Marquez is blacker than a cloud at the exit from the Circuito de Jerez Medical Center: he knows that everything is bad

“It seems that yesterday I again got a subluxation – similar, which could not bother the doctors.Two similar subluxations in a short period of time is a serious trend, and in order to avoid the consequences – as with the left shoulder – they recommended surgery to me. We will work as planned to get back to Malaysia in the best possible shape. ”

In the recent history of MotoGP, there have already been cases when the strongest pilots of the championship were forced to end their careers due to recurrent injuries.

The two most notorious cases are the resignations of James Tozland and Ben Spies .The Briton and the American suffered a series of injuries that followed one after the other – and superimposed one on the other, which ultimately led them to the physical inability for a long period (up to two years) to control the prototypes of MotoGP. Tozland’s left hand was critically damaged; Spies’ acromioclavicular joint was damaged twice in a row (fracture and subsequent complete rupture). After lengthy rehabilitation treatment, both made the decision to retire.

Ben Spies, retired in 2013

The case of Mark Marquez, fortunately, curable , moreover, in a fairly short period: a year ago, the “overhaul” of the left shoulder bag, from which the shoulder began to fall out, was carried out by the Dexius Institute surgeons for 4.5 hours, it took the Catalan 9 weeks to recover. In Sepang, for the IRTA tests, he arrived “in 50% form.” But we managed to start the season in Qatar “with almost 90%”. Later, Marquez noted that he came up to 100% after the Argentine Grand Prix.

However, there is another side of the coin in the person of Dani Pedrosa and his sudden illness. Dani broke his right collarbone six times in his career, six times it was fixed to him, and then six times the iron was removed from the bone. Exactly a year ago, during a regular training session in the gym, he suddenly felt pain.X-rays showed that the right collarbone … was broken in half – with little or no stress! A detailed study revealed that as a result of numerous operations, the bone tissue ceased to recover – blood circulation was impaired, which led to aseptic necrosis of the bone tissue. The collarbone simply dried out and lost its elasticity. To restore the tissue, Dani Pedrosa had to undergo a long-term operation using stem cells; before the operation, he waited 3 weeks for permission from a special commission of the Spanish Ministry of Health, which approved the allocation of the necessary amount of valuable biomaterial to the famous motorcycle racer from the Ministry’s reserves.