How long does a broken collarbone take to heal. What are the stages of recovery for a broken collarbone. Can you speed up the healing process of a broken collarbone. What are the best ways to manage pain from a broken collarbone. How does physiotherapy help in recovering from a broken collarbone.

Understanding the Broken Collarbone: Causes and Initial Impact

A broken collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury often resulting from direct impact or falls. The collarbone serves as a crucial connection between the shoulder blade and the breastbone, playing a vital role in shoulder movement and stability. When this bone breaks, it can significantly impact an individual’s daily activities and overall quality of life.

The severity of a broken collarbone can vary, ranging from a small crack to a complete break with displacement of the bone fragments. The most common causes include:

• Falls onto the shoulder or outstretched arm
• Direct blows to the shoulder
• Sports-related injuries
• Vehicle accidents

Immediately after the injury, individuals typically experience intense pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected arm. In some cases, there may be a visible deformity or a grinding sensation when attempting to move the shoulder.

The Healing Timeline: What to Expect During Recovery

The healing process for a broken collarbone varies depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the severity of the fracture. However, a general timeline can be outlined to give patients an idea of what to expect during their recovery journey.

Initial Phase (0-2 weeks)

During the first two weeks after the injury, the focus is on pain management and immobilization. Patients are typically advised to wear a sling or figure-eight brace to keep the shoulder stable and allow the bone to begin the healing process.

Early Healing Phase (2-6 weeks)

As the initial pain and swelling subside, the body begins to form new bone tissue around the fracture site. Patients may start to feel some improvement in comfort and mobility, but it’s crucial to continue following medical advice and avoid strenuous activities.

Mid-Healing Phase (6-12 weeks)

By this stage, the new bone tissue has begun to bridge the fracture site. Depending on the individual case, some patients may be cleared to start gentle exercises and gradually increase their range of motion under the guidance of a physiotherapist.

Late Healing Phase (3-6 months)

The bone continues to strengthen and remodel during this period. Most patients regain full function of their shoulder and can return to normal activities, including sports, by the end of this phase.

Is there a typical duration for complete healing of a broken collarbone. While individual cases may vary, most broken collarbones heal within 6 to 12 weeks. However, it’s important to note that full recovery, including regaining strength and range of motion, can take several months.

Treatment Options: Conservative vs. Surgical Approaches

The treatment of a broken collarbone typically falls into two main categories: conservative (non-surgical) and surgical. The choice between these approaches depends on various factors, including the severity of the fracture, the patient’s age, and their overall health status.

Conservative Treatment

For most simple fractures, conservative treatment is the preferred option. This approach typically involves:

• Immobilization using a sling or figure-eight brace
• Pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications
• Rest and activity modification
• Gradual introduction of exercises as healing progresses

Surgical Treatment

In cases of severe fractures or when conservative treatment fails to produce satisfactory results, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options include:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using plates and screws
• Intramedullary fixation using pins or rods

Can surgery speed up the healing process for a broken collarbone. While surgery can provide more immediate stability to the fracture site, it doesn’t necessarily accelerate the biological process of bone healing. However, it may allow for earlier mobilization and potentially faster return to activities in some cases.

Pain Management Strategies for Broken Collarbone Recovery

Managing pain effectively is crucial for patient comfort and to facilitate the healing process. Various strategies can be employed to alleviate pain associated with a broken collarbone:

Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective for mild to moderate pain. In cases of severe pain, especially in the early stages of recovery, doctors may prescribe stronger medications like codeine-based painkillers. However, it’s important to use these medications judiciously due to potential side effects, including constipation.

Ice Therapy

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain, especially in the first few days after the injury. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, with a thin cloth barrier between the ice and the skin to prevent ice burns.

Positioning and Support

Proper positioning of the arm and shoulder using pillows or specialized cushions can help reduce strain on the broken collarbone and provide comfort, particularly during sleep.

Gentle Movement

As healing progresses and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, gentle movements of the fingers, wrist, and elbow can help improve circulation and prevent stiffness without putting undue stress on the healing collarbone.

Are there any natural remedies that can help with pain management for a broken collarbone. While scientific evidence is limited, some patients report benefits from natural remedies such as arnica gel for bruising, turmeric for inflammation, and controlled breathing exercises for pain management. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any alternative treatments.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Collarbone Fracture Recovery

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process following a broken collarbone. A skilled physiotherapist can guide patients through a tailored program designed to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the affected shoulder and arm.

Early Stage Physiotherapy

In the initial weeks following the injury, physiotherapy may focus on:

• Pain management techniques
• Gentle range of motion exercises for the elbow and wrist
• Education on proper sling use and posture

Mid-Stage Physiotherapy

As healing progresses, the physiotherapy program may advance to include:

• Gradual shoulder mobility exercises
• Isometric strengthening exercises
• Scapular stabilization exercises

Late-Stage Physiotherapy

In the final stages of recovery, physiotherapy aims to:

• Restore full range of motion to the shoulder
• Improve shoulder and arm strength
• Address any residual issues such as postural imbalances
• Prepare patients for return to sports or specific activities

How does physiotherapy contribute to faster recovery from a broken collarbone. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in optimizing the healing process by promoting proper bone alignment, preventing muscle atrophy, improving circulation, and gradually restoring function to the affected area. This structured approach can lead to better outcomes and potentially faster return to normal activities.

Lifestyle Adjustments and Self-Care During Recovery

Recovering from a broken collarbone often requires significant lifestyle adjustments to promote healing and prevent further injury. Here are some key considerations for patients during their recovery period:

Sleep Positioning

Finding a comfortable sleeping position can be challenging with a broken collarbone. Many patients find relief by:

• Sleeping in a semi-upright position using pillows for support
• Using a recliner chair for the first few weeks
• Placing a pillow under the affected arm for support

Clothing Choices

Dressing can be difficult with limited shoulder mobility. Consider:

• Button-up shirts or tops with front closures
• Loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to put on and take off
• Slip-on shoes to avoid bending over

Hygiene Practices

Maintaining proper hygiene can be challenging but is crucial for comfort and preventing complications like skin irritation. Tips include:

• Using a handheld showerhead for bathing
• Employing assistive devices like long-handled sponges
• Regular cleaning and airing out of the sling or brace

Nutrition for Bone Health

A balanced diet rich in nutrients that support bone health can aid in the healing process. Key nutrients include:

• Calcium: found in dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods
• Vitamin D: obtained through sunlight exposure and foods like fatty fish and egg yolks
• Protein: essential for tissue repair and found in lean meats, legumes, and dairy

How can patients maintain their overall fitness while recovering from a broken collarbone. While upper body exercises are limited, patients can engage in lower body workouts and cardiovascular activities like stationary cycling or walking, as approved by their healthcare provider. It’s crucial to avoid activities that risk falls or impacts to the healing collarbone.

Potential Complications and Long-Term Outlook

While most broken collarbones heal without significant issues, it’s important for patients to be aware of potential complications and what to expect in the long term.

Possible Complications

Some complications that may arise during the healing process include:

• Malunion: Improper alignment of the bone as it heals
• Nonunion: Failure of the bone to heal completely
• Shoulder stiffness or frozen shoulder
• Nerve or blood vessel damage

Long-Term Outlook

For most patients, the long-term prognosis following a broken collarbone is positive. However, some individuals may experience:

• A visible bump at the fracture site
• Mild shoulder asymmetry
• Occasional clicking or popping sensations

These residual effects are typically cosmetic and do not significantly impact function. However, if they cause concern or discomfort, patients should consult their healthcare provider.

Can patients expect to regain full strength and range of motion after a broken collarbone. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most patients can expect to regain full or near-full function of their shoulder and arm. However, individual results may vary based on factors such as age, the severity of the fracture, and adherence to the rehabilitation program.

Returning to Activities and Sports After Collarbone Fracture

The journey back to normal activities and sports participation after a broken collarbone requires patience, careful planning, and close collaboration with healthcare providers. Here’s what patients should know about this final phase of recovery:

Gradual Return to Daily Activities

As healing progresses, patients can gradually resume normal daily activities under the guidance of their doctor or physiotherapist. This typically involves:

• Slowly increasing the use of the affected arm for light tasks
• Returning to work, starting with modified duties if necessary
• Gradually resuming household chores and personal care activities

Rehabilitative Exercises

A structured exercise program is crucial for restoring full function and preventing future injuries. This may include:

• Progressive resistance training to rebuild strength
• Flexibility exercises to improve range of motion
• Sport-specific drills for athletes

Return to Sports

The timeline for returning to sports varies depending on the individual and the sport in question. Generally, patients can expect:

• A minimum of 6-8 weeks before considering a return to non-contact sports
• 3-6 months before returning to contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls
• Gradual progression from low-intensity to high-intensity training

Protective Measures

Upon returning to sports or high-risk activities, patients may need to consider protective measures such as:

• Wearing padding or specialized shoulder protection
• Modifying technique or playing style to reduce risk
• Implementing a thorough warm-up routine

How can athletes minimize the risk of re-injury when returning to sports after a broken collarbone. Athletes should follow a gradual return-to-play protocol, ensure they have regained full strength and range of motion, and work closely with their healthcare team to develop sport-specific conditioning programs. Additionally, using proper protective equipment and focusing on technique can help reduce the risk of re-injury.

Recovering from a broken collarbone is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and a collaborative approach between patients and their healthcare providers. By understanding the healing process, following treatment guidelines, and actively participating in rehabilitation, most individuals can expect to regain full function and return to their pre-injury activities. Remember that each case is unique, and it’s essential to consult with medical professionals for personalized advice throughout the recovery process.

Ten (OK, twelve) things about breaking your collarbone – Lifestyle, Mutterings – Muddymoles

The functionality on this website requires Javascript but it appears that either your browser does not support Javascript or you have Javascript disabled.

This will affect your experience of this website and in some cases may prevent key features from working correctly.

Up until this year I’ve been lucky enough never to have broken a single bone in my body. I probably haven’t been trying hard enough which suits me fine, if you’re injured you can’t ride for a start. But this year, as most of you know I collided heavily with a tree and the tree won quite easily, leaving me with a broken collarbone.

What can you expect if you’re unlucky enough to experience the same? Here’s a list of the main points.

1. Breaking a bone hurts, a lot. In my limited experience, not as bad as suffering for an entire weekend with a raging tooth abcess but close. The thing is, although it’s the sort of pain that makes you want to be very good and sit still if it would just stop hurting, when you do sit still it does stop hurting. Until you move of course. But for me, tooth pain is worse because it won’t stop, ever.
2. Like tooth pain, when it stops hurting it’s difficult to remember how bad it was, which is probably a good thing. Until you move.
3. The first week or so is the worst if you are following the traditional ‘strap it up and wait for nature to mend it’ course. The bone starts making new stuff pretty quickly but after a couple of days the sensation of the two ends sticking and then pulling apart as you move still makes me feel nauseous if I think about it.
4. There is a wide range of estimates of how long it takes to heal. I’ve heard of people being back at work the next day (frankly that’s in the borderline insane category) to up to eight or ten weeks. For me, I had five and a half weeks in a sling followed by another couple of weeks to get mobility back enough to drive a car. And it was a simple (but clean) break. My advice is listen to your body first, then doctors. There are no shortcuts.
5. Painkillers are a boon and a curse. Put it this way, codeine based painkillers are known for effective pain relief, followed by ummm, constipation. Calculate your dosage based on need.
6. Most medical advice is offered on a ‘don’t do anything unless necessary (or we’re getting paid for it)’ basis. This gives rise to consultants suggesting pinning the bone whereas NHS doctors say ‘it’ll be fine, just wait’. If you think pinning is worthwhile, insist early on or it’s not worth it as the bone is healing straight away. For me, pinning would have saved time but not necessarily been the best option as it was a simple break and was always going to heal on its own. Pinning involves cutting muscles and invasive surgery, the wait and see approach is longer but does work. I’ve been lucky enough to get a full range of movement back albeit with the odd shoulder click.
7. The medical system is obscure. Not because people don’t want to help (all the medical staff I met were great), but because they see this stuff so often they forget it’s a massive deal for you. My most upsetting moments were from being treated as a statistic or a ‘problem’ rather than a patient. Going private prevents this but even so, make a point of asking questions and pushing for answers.
8. If you break your collarbone and have it strapped for any period of time (the most common treatment), expect the Armpit of Doom. It will happen. A combination of hot material from the sling itself, an immobile shoulder and a difficulty in washing can only lead to one result. It’s unpleasant, especially in high summer and has lead me to boggle at the thought of where all that dead skin normally goes. That’s enough for me to say but do your best to stay clean.
9. The value of a good physiotherapist cannot be over estimated. I’ve been to a few over the years but the one that worked on me after I was out of the sling was the best I’ve had. After that length of time immobile you lose strength dramatically but also flexibility to the point where my elbow wouldn’t straighten and I couldn’t get my arm above my head or behind my back. The physio sorted all that and now I’m fine. And armpit massages (cf. the Armpit of Doom) are odd, painful and embarrassing in equal measure.
10. Fitness. If you are injured, you will lose fitness. There’s nothing you can do about this but don’t be tempted to ‘get back on the horse’ too soon. It may be tempting but the consequences of another injury are both more time off the bike and potentially far worse damage to deal with long term. Wait until the physio says it’s OK to start training and do exactly what they say. When you do get back to riding, the first ride or so will be fine, after which the extended layoff will really sap your strength. Remember you’re still healing from a big injury. For me, I’ve ended up with a couple of colds and general tiredness for quite a while now and pushing harder doesn’t help. As I’ve said, listen to your body and play the long game.
11. Be prepared for depression. Not necessarily the ‘whole world’s against me’ kind (although it might be) but longer term flatness and lack of enthusiasm. For me, not riding the whole summer, missing out on outdoor air and sunshine plus general tiredness and the knowledge that your mates are still riding has taken it’s toll, leaving me ill, unfit and fed up. Again, play the long game, beating it requires keeping a clear idea in your head of where you want to be and not being distracted by relatively small hurdles that get in the way. Don’t allow yourself to do stuff you don’t want but don’t let other easy excuses get in your way. Things like poor weather, wife has got used to you being around on Sundays, bike’s not quite right excuses don’t wash. Just do it.
12. MTB Mojo—this is the hardest part of your recovery. Personally I’m not there yet. There are times when you start riding again that you find yourself just plain scared of hurting yourself again. Once you know what it involves you don’t want to experience it again. Besides, the definition of an idiot is someone who doesn’t learn from past mistakes. This is a tough one, you can’t just pick up where you left off but of course you know deep down that you can do it because you’ve done it before. For me, returning to riding in the autumn when everything is/was covered in slippery leaves and mud made it worse and there have been times when I’ve just wanted take up Tiddlywinks instead. You can’t force things and in my case I can’t shake the thought that my injury was stupendously close to a full on high–speed head–first disaster, in which case I might not be worrying about riding again at all. I’ve been really lucky and in those circumstances it’s best not to tweak the nose of danger again too soon. I know it will return but I’ll let it come to me rather than going looking for it.

So there’s my thoughts. Basically, the injury hurts and the sensation of muscles shortening, withering and cramping up through inactivity can be extremely uncomfortable, but your body will heal.

You can have it pinned or wait for nature and there’s pros and cons with either option which depending on the opinion and employer of who you’re talking to you won’t get. But basically people do want to help, so keep pushing for answers.

Watch out for the Armpit of Doom and accept that it takes time to recover from a big break. I never realised how much blood there is in bones for example which leads to bruising and swelling which can take weeks to dissipate.

Finally, let mountain biking come to you once you’ve recovered, don’t try and prove a point to yourself (or worse, others) but don’t use feeble excuses to stay away either.

For me, after six months, I think I’m starting to enjoy it again…

Share:

About the author

Matt is one of the founding Molefathers of the Muddymoles, and is the designer and main administrator of the website.

Having ridden a 2007 Orange Five for many years then a 2016 YT Industries Jeffsy 29er, he now rocks a Bird Aether 9 and a Pace RC-627.

An early On-One Inbred still lurks in the back of the stable as a reminder of how things have moved on. You can even find him on road bikes – currently a 2019 Cannondale Topstone 105 SE, a much-used 2011 Specialized Secteur and very niche belt drive Trek District 1.

If you’ve ever wondered how we got into mountain biking and how the MuddyMoles started, well wonder no more.

Broken collarbone: what is it, symptoms and treatment

Return

Ms Susan Alexander –

Orthopaedic surgery

What is a clavicle fracture?

A clavicle fracture affects the long, thin bone also known as the collarbone, which is located in the upper chest, between the sternum and the shoulder. Its function is to join the upper limbs with the thorax and keep the shoulders aligned. An injury that causes the clavicle to be broken can also cause the clavicle to be dislocated or the neighbouring acromioclavicular joint to dislocate.

What are the symptoms of a broken collarbone?

If the fracture is mild, the main symptoms are:

• pain in the fractured bone area
• a feeling that the shoulder could be dislocated
• difficulty and pain when moving the shoulder or arm
• bruising, swelling or a bulge in the clavicle
• crunching or creaking noise when lifting the arm

If the fracture is more severe you may notice:

• significant irregularity in the clavicle area
• lack of sensitivity or tingling sensation in the arm or the fingers of the hand

What can cause a broken collarbone?

A clavicle fracture is almost always caused by a violent impact on the arm extended in a fall or by a fall directly on the shoulder itself. It is more frequent in children, since these bones do not harden until adulthood.

When should you seek medical assistance about a broken collarbone?

If you think that you may have fractured your clavicle, you should visit a hospital as soon as possible to receive medical assistance. While waiting to see a doctor, using an ice pack and over the counter pain killers can help to alleviate any discomfort. Remember that children under the age of sixteen should not take aspirin.

Using a sling can also help to make the injury more comfortable while waiting for medical attention. If the injury is causing extreme pain or the injury is very severe, call the emergency services and ask for advice.

How is a broken collarbone diagnosed?

A clavicle fracture requires a physical examination and imaging tests. In the examination, the doctor will ask you how the injury occurred and will examine your shoulder to see if there are any irregularities. An X-ray can determine whether the clavicle has fractured and whether any other damage has taken place.

How is a broken collarbone treated?

In many cases, the clavicle can heal without surgical intervention. Treatment involves:

• medication to reduce pain and swelling
• keeping your arm supported in a sling
• exercises to gradually build up the mobility in your shoulder as it heals

It is important to see the doctor regularly for follow-up scans to check the clavicle is healing in the right way. If the bone does not heal correctly, a large bump can form over the clavicle, and this may take many years to subside.

When is surgery required for a broken collarbone?

Surgery is indicated in fractures that involve a displacement of the fractured bone. There are several surgical techniques, including the use of needles that are placed through the skin, the placement of plates screwed to the bone or the placement of a long screw inside the fractured bone.

After the procedure, the arm must be placed in a sling for at least a few days, and no daily activities or weight lifting can be carried out for four to six weeks.

How long does a broken collarbone take to heal?

Patients usually go back to the hospital’s outpatient department around a week or so after being discharged so a healthcare professional can check that the collarbone is healing as it should. If you are concerned about your injury after being discharged, the pain suddenly worsens or you feel weakness in your arm or hand, you should go back to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency department to seek urgent medical advice.

In adults, it may take between six and eight weeks for a broken collarbone to heal although in some patients, the healing process takes longer. For children, the recovery period is shorter, and usually takes around three to six weeks.

Although a broken collarbone can usually heal over a period of around two months, it can take doubly as long for the shoulder to regain its full strength. If the fracture is not healing with conservative (non-surgical) treatment, surgery may be necessary.

A number of measures can aid recovery from a broken collarbone, including:

• sleeping in a more upright position if uncomfortable in bed, using extra pillows as necessary
• using ice packs and pain killers to alleviate discomfort
• removing the sling for limited periods later in the recovery process, if the injury is not too painful to do so
• maintaining regular movement of the hand, fingers and elbow when you are able to do so

It’s important to avoid weight lifting and contact sports until at least three months after your injury. Follow your doctor’s advice on returning to work, driving and other daily activities.

What type of doctor treats a broken collarbone?

Orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists treat broken collarbones.

Clavicle Fracture: Development, Treatment, Healing Time

Under one 90 037 broken collarbone (Klavikulafraktur) everyone understands the bone injury of the collarbone. The cause is usually a fall onto an outstretched arm or shoulder. Typical symptoms of a clavicle fracture are pain associated with movement. Sometimes the gap is also visible from the outside. In many cases, this can be treated conservatively with a special association. Surgery is rarely needed. Learn more about a broken collarbone here.

ICD codes for this condition: ICD codes are internationally valid medical diagnostic codes. They are found, for example, in medical reports or disability certificates. S42

Product Overview

broken collarbone

Fractured collarbone description

The clavicle (collarbone) is the only bony connection between the arm and the torso skeleton. It runs between the sternum and appendix of the scapula (acromion).

A broken collarbone (collarbone fracture) is one of the most common fractures with three to five percent of all fractures and approximately 45 percent of all shoulder injuries. About 60 out of every 100,000 people suffer from a broken collarbone each year. Due to the change in leisure time behavior that is a trend for risky sports, the incidence of collarbone fractures is also increasing.

The fracture occurs mainly in young people in the first and second decades. Thus, especially the male sex is affected.

Despite its frequency, a clavicle fracture is one of the most harmless fractures. After a radius fracture near the wrist (distal radius fracture), this fracture is the second most common fracture in adults.

Clavicle fracture: symptoms

A typical symptom of a broken collarbone is pain. Any attempt to move the arm or chest is extremely painful. Therefore, suffering people are often restrained. An audible noise of fragment friction during movement is also a sign of a fracture. There is usually bruising and swelling just above the broken collarbone. If the fracture is delayed, it can often be seen in thin people, in the clavicle stage – especially when comparing pages. However, in patients who are obese (fatty) or with multiple trauma (trauma patients), staging is often skipped.

If there is a tear in the outer third of the collarbone, the so-called piano key phenomenon may occur. Here the broken end is up and can be pressed like a piano key.

Very rarely (in one to two percent of all patients) a clavicle fracture occurs, that is, bone fragments stick out of the skin.

Fracture of the collarbone can also occur at birth. In affected children, the above symptoms are often less pronounced.

Clavicle fracture: causes and risk factors

A clavicle fracture is usually caused by indirect trauma. This includes primarily a fall onto an outstretched hand, such as when rollerblading or cycling. In fact, cyclists consider clavicle fractures to be the most common form of bone fracture.

Rarely, direct trauma from a blow or fall to the anterior shoulder causes a broken collarbone. In a motorcycle accident, the collarbone can break when the bottom edge of the motorcycle helmet is pressed against the collarbone.

Clavicle rupture with indirect injury usually in the middle (90 percent) and with direct injury usually in the outer third of the bone.

From time to time, a newborn’s collarbone fracture occurs, namely, when the child’s shoulder girdle narrows as it passes through the mother’s pelvis. This danger exists especially in large children.

Clavicle Fracture: Examination and Diagnosis

If you suspect a clavicle fracture, you should consult an orthopedic and traumatologist. First, you will be asked about the accident and your medical history. Some questions from the doctor might be:

• Did you fall on your shoulder or outstretched arm?
• How did the accident happen?
• Can you still move your shoulder or arm?
• Are you in pain?
• Have you had any complaints such as pain, limitation of movement, or previous shoulder dislocation?

The description of the accident and the symptoms is already frequent enough for a doctor to consider a clavicle fracture. This becomes more difficult if the patient is unconscious due to multiple injuries (polytrauma) and other injuries are a priority.

A more thorough examination is needed to clarify the suspected diagnosis of a clavicle fracture. The doctor examines the Schultereckgelenk (acromio-clavicular joint) and the sternum Schlüsselbeingelenk (sternoclavicular joint). It also examines the major key trabeculae (artery and subclavian vein) and checks for damage to the adjacent nerve plexus (brachial plexus).

It is also important to rule out associated injuries such as pneumothorax (air entering the pleural space) or hematothorax (blood into the pleural space). In addition, circulation, motor skills and sensation are tested on the affected arm.

In infants, the pediatrician recognizes a broken collarbone based on the restriction and scanning the collarbone. X-rays are rarely used in children.

Imaging procedures

This is followed by x-ray examination at different levels. It can be safely clarified whether a clavicle fracture is present and how the fracture occurs. If it is unclear whether other joints are affected, x-rays of the shoulder joint, sternum-Schlüsselbeingelenks and chest are taken. For further clarification, an ultrasound examination of the shoulder and Schultereckgelenks can be performed.

Fractures of the clavicle in the middle range sometimes cannot be assessed by one x-ray. In this case, computed tomography (CT) may be required. In a severely injured patient with polytrauma, CT is usually also performed.

Associated clavicle fracture injuries, such as capsular humeral ligament injuries, can be assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Clavicle fracture treatment

Clavicle fracture treatment aims to relieve pain and restore strong and stable bone at an early stage. Depending on the type of fracture, it can be treated conservatively or surgically.

Clavicle fracture: conservative treatment

About 90 percent of all clavicle fractures can be successfully treated conservatively. The patient is first given pain medication and the affected side is immobilized with a backpack or bandage. This conservative treatment is particularly suitable for non-shortened and displaced or almost non-shortened clavicle fractures. Pain and mobility of the shoulder and arm provide information about the success of the treatment.

Bandage rucksack to be worn over the break in the middle and middle part of the body of the collarbone. It is necessary to regularly check the correctness of the dressing, otherwise there is a risk of fragments moving. As a general rule, adults should wear a backpack for three to four weeks, and children for ten days.

If there is a fracture in the lateral third of the clavicle, a Gilchrist bandage is created.

Clavicle Fracture Surgery

Clavicle fracture surgery may be associated with displaced fractures, interfragmentary fractures (z-shaped switch fragment), polytraumatic patients, open fractures, or additional vascular and nerve injury.

Nails such as Prevot or TEN nails are used in a broken clavicle with two fragments. For more complex fractures with more than two fragments, angular stable or non-angular plate systems are used. If there is a fracture of the clavicle in the outer third of the bone, Kirschner wires (flexible wire) can be used with a cerclage (thread or wire) or, in special cases, with a hook plate.

After a collarbone fracture, the patient usually receives pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. To protect the hand, a hand strap is created.

The shoulder joint should then be carefully repositioned for six weeks to a maximum horizontal plane. Only after X-ray control, if a stable bone has been found, can you play sports that strain the shoulder. However, this should not begin until twelve weeks later.

Clavicle fracture in children

In children, this is usually a closed shaft fracture. It is treated in small children with a sling, and in large children with a backpack. In the event of an injury to the outer third of the clavicle, surgery may be required. The gap is temporarily stabilized with a Kirschner wire.

Collarbone fracture: course of the disease and prognosis

Collarbone fracture generally has a good prognosis. However, patients often underestimate how much movement is limited by the fracture.

Clavicle fracture: complications

The following complications may occur with a clavicle fracture:

• No healing of the bones
• Bone cannot be rebuilt
• Shortening of the collarbone
• pain
• Swelling in the arm

9000 3 Ant walking (tingle of paresthesia)

• Arm and shoulder cannot be moved as originally

Surgery is always associated with certain risks, such as inflammation. However, this rarely happens. The following complications may occur in connection with the operation:

• wound healing
• infection
• Implant not working, breaking or wandering
• scarring
• numbness

Clavicle fracture: healing time

The duration and course of healing for a clavicle fracture varies depending on the type of fracture.

The prognosis is usually very good for conservative treatment of a clavicle fracture. A slight shortening or displacement of the clavicle after the end of treatment usually does not adversely affect the function of the shoulder joint.

After about three weeks, you can raise your arm to a horizontal position. At the earliest, after six weeks, the callus (newly formed bone tissue) is visible during an X-ray examination. At this time, you should have regained almost free mobility and be largely pain-free. Sports that strain the shoulder should resume after the twelfth week.

With surgical treatment, the patient usually recovers completely a little faster. The inserted implant is removed not earlier than after three months. In case of major fractures, it should be maintained for at least six months, even in the case of an uncomplicated healing process.

In the long term, 30 percent of patients with clavicle fractures do not achieve optimal aesthetic or functional results.

In children, a clavicle fracture usually heals in four weeks with a strong callus. The bone then regenerates over the years. broken collarbone occurring at birth usually heals without complications.

Learn more about therapy

• Endoprosthesis
• External Fixator
• Gilchrist Association
• cast
• osteosynthesis

FAQ – 💬

❓ How long does a broken collarbone heal?

👉 Typically, bone regeneration of clavicle takes 3 to 6 weeks for children and 6 to 12 weeks for adults.

❓ How does a person feel when a collarbone is broken?

👉 The main symptoms of fracture of the clavicle : severe pain in the area of ​​injury; displacement or misalignment of the shoulder; crunching and increased pain when trying to raise the arm; inability to fully move the arm and raise it.

❓ How many days are you in the hospital with a broken collarbone?

👉 Inpatient stay lasts 1-2 days. Surgical treatment of fracture of the clavicle is a practically painless and comfortable treatment method for the patient. Functions after it are restored quickly.

❓ How long does it take to walk in a cast with a broken collarbone?

👉 Conservative treatment: after reposition, the shoulder girdle is fixed with a plaster cast or orthosis. The term of immobilization is 4-5 weeks. With conservative treatment, there is a high risk of nonunion or malunion of the fracture.

❓ How does a broken collarbone hurt?

👉 A person with an injured collarbone feels a sudden, sharp, intense pain in the upper body, between the neck and shoulder. The pain gets worse with certain movements, such as raising your arm forward, crossing your arms in front of you, pushing, pulling, or lifting your arm up.

❓ Can a clavicle fracture be avoided without surgery?

👉 Unfortunately, in adults, in most cases, fractures of the clavicle are accompanied by debris displacement. And here without operation is not to do without . Surgical treatment of fracture of the clavicle with displacement is performed by the method of osteosynthesis.

❓ How to sleep properly with a broken collarbone?

👉 It is best to sleep with a broken collarbone half-sitting with pillows under your back. After applying the splint, it is necessary to discuss this issue with your doctor.

❓ How to sleep properly with a broken collarbone?

It is best to sleep in case of fracture of the collarbone half-sitting with pillows under the back. After applying the splint, it is necessary to discuss this issue with your doctor.

❓ How does a broken collarbone heal?

👉 If the treatment started on time, and the patient follows all the recommendations of the doctor, the healing period after a fracture of the collarbone usually does not exceed 10 weeks for adults and 3 weeks for children.

❓ What is the pain of a broken collarbone?

👉 Symptoms Person injured collarbone feels sudden, sharp, intense pain in the upper part of the body, between the neck and shoulder. Pain increases with certain movements, such as raising the arm forward, crossing the arms in front of oneself, pushing, pulling, or raising the arm up.

❓ Can I move my arm when I have a fracture?

👉 In fact, you can sometimes move a broken limb or finger , so it cannot be considered as check for fracture . The three main symptoms of a broken bone are pain, swelling, and deformity.

How serious is the clavicle fracture? Treatment and complications

Medicines and vitamins

• Medical Author: Shazia Allaraha, MD
• Medical Reviewer: Pallavi Suyog Uttekar, MD

• Complications
  • What are the possible complications of a clavicle fracture?
• Causes
  • What are the causes of a clavicle fracture?
• Symptoms
  • What are the symptoms of a clavicle fracture?

A broken collarbone is a common injury. But most clavicle fractures heal completely within a few months without any complications.

In general, a broken collarbone or collarbone usually heals completely within a few months and usually does not cause serious complications.

Even when a broken collarbone is not perfectly aligned, it usually heals well without causing significant deformity. This is because the collarbone is covered by a thick outer layer called the periosteum, which acts as a sleeve to hold the broken bone together while it heals.

However, sometimes surgery may be necessary, especially in cases where there are many misalignments of broken parts that cannot be corrected conservatively. Therefore, it is always important to seek medical attention in the event of a clavicle fracture to ensure proper treatment of the injury.

What are the possible complications of a clavicle fracture?

Although rare, a clavicle fracture can cause the following complications:

• Bleeding (if the broken bone pierces the blood vessel)
• nerve injury (in case of a fracture, the bone damages the nerve)
• Click on the site where the fracture occurred
• Osteoarthritis (if the fracture is associated with the connection between the collarbone and shoulder or between the collarbone and sternum or sternum)
• Infectious disease (if there is an open fracture caused by the sharp part of the broken collarbone pierced in the skin surface)
• non-union (rare, occurs when fragments of the clavicle do not fuse)
• Injury to the lung (rare, occurs when part of the broken collarbone penetrates the top of the lung)

What are the causes of a clavicle fracture?

Broken collarbones or collarbones are very common, with many fractures most commonly occurring in men aged 13 to 20 years.

The clavicle connects the shoulder to the sternum and plays an important role in the stability of the shoulder joint. It also protects the various nerves and blood vessels that run from the neck to the shoulder.

Fractured collarbone usually occurs with direct contact injury to the collarbone or outside of the upper arm:

• Falls on the upper arm or outstretched arm
• Influence from contact sports such as rugby, hockey, wrestling and lacrosse
• Automotive injuries such as car accidents or falls from motorcycles.
• Birth injuries that may occur in newborns when they pass through the birth canal.

What are the symptoms of a clavicle fracture?

Symptoms of a clavicle fracture usually include:

diclofenac 50 mg side effects

• Pain that occurs shortly after an injury to the collarbone or shoulder area
• Swelling or bruising over the collarbone or shoulder area
• Trouble with movement of the arm or shoulder on the side of the injury
• Soreness or bruising over the fracture site
• Grinding feeling when moving the arm or shoulder on the affected area
• Deformity (e.