How long does a broken collarbone take to heal. What are the causes of clavicle fractures in children and newborns. How is a collarbone fracture diagnosed and treated. What are the symptoms of a broken clavicle.

Understanding the Anatomy and Function of the Collarbone

The collarbone, also known as the clavicle, is a crucial component of the human skeletal system. This S-shaped bone connects the breastbone (sternum) to the shoulder blade (scapula), playing a vital role in shoulder movement and stability. Collarbone fractures are particularly common in children, often resulting from everyday activities or sports-related incidents.

The Importance of the Clavicle in Body Mechanics

Why is the collarbone so significant in our body’s structure? The clavicle serves as a strut between the shoulder blade and the sternum, allowing for a wide range of arm movements. It also protects important blood vessels and nerves that run beneath it, supplying the upper limb. Understanding this anatomical importance helps in appreciating the impact of a clavicle fracture on overall shoulder function and mobility.

Common Causes of Collarbone Fractures in Children

Collarbone fractures in children can occur due to various reasons, with some being more prevalent than others. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and prompt recognition of potential injuries.

• Falls on the side of the shoulder
• Direct blows to the collarbone
• Sports-related injuries (football, soccer, hockey)
• Bicycle accidents
• Rare cases of falls on outstretched arms

Are certain activities more likely to result in clavicle fractures? Indeed, sports with a high risk of falling or direct impact to the shoulder area pose a greater threat. Football, soccer, and hockey are particularly notorious for such injuries. Additionally, activities like cycling, where falls are common, can lead to collarbone fractures.

Preventing Collarbone Injuries in Children

How can parents and caregivers reduce the risk of collarbone fractures in children? Implementing proper safety measures is crucial:

1. Ensure children wear appropriate protective gear during sports activities
2. Teach proper falling techniques in sports like cycling and skateboarding
3. Supervise young children during play, especially on playground equipment
4. Encourage strength training to improve overall bone density and muscle support
5. Maintain safe home environments to prevent accidental falls

Collarbone Fractures in Newborns: A Unique Concern

Surprisingly, broken collarbones are the most common injury sustained by newborns during birth. This occurrence, while alarming, is often a result of the birthing process itself.

Factors Increasing the Risk of Clavicle Fractures During Birth

What conditions during delivery can lead to a newborn’s collarbone fracture? Several factors contribute to this risk:

• Large size of the newborn
• Narrow birth canal
• Shoulder dystocia (when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck)
• Use of forceps or vacuum extraction during delivery

How do these factors contribute to clavicle fractures? The pressure exerted on the baby’s shoulder during passage through the birth canal can cause the collarbone to break. In cases of shoulder dystocia or when assistive devices are used, the risk increases due to the additional force applied to the baby’s upper body.

Diagnosing a Broken Collarbone: Signs and Medical Procedures

Recognizing the signs of a broken collarbone is crucial for timely medical intervention. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the symptoms that may indicate a clavicle fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone in Children

What are the telltale signs of a clavicle fracture in children? Look out for the following symptoms:

• Pain at the top of the shoulder or along the collarbone
• Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
• Bruising or swelling in the affected area
• A visible lump or deformity along the collarbone
• Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the shoulder or arm
• The child supporting the affected arm with their other hand

Diagnostic Procedures for Collarbone Fractures

When a collarbone fracture is suspected, medical professionals employ various diagnostic techniques to confirm and assess the injury. What steps does a doctor take to diagnose a broken collarbone?

1. Physical examination of the affected area
2. X-rays to confirm the fracture and determine its severity
3. Additional tests in case of suspected joint or artery damage:
   • Arteriogram/Arteriography
   • CT scans
   • Ultrasound

Why are these additional tests sometimes necessary? While X-rays are usually sufficient, more complex fractures or those involving surrounding structures may require advanced imaging. These tests help doctors assess any potential damage to blood vessels or nearby joints, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Broken Collarbones

The treatment of a broken collarbone varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the age of the patient. In most cases, conservative treatment is sufficient, especially for children whose bones heal quickly.

Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches

What are the primary non-surgical methods for treating a broken collarbone?

• Immobilization with an arm sling
• Pain management through over-the-counter or prescription medications
• Gradual physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength

How long does a child typically need to wear a sling? The duration varies based on the fracture’s severity but generally ranges from three to six weeks. During this time, the bone begins to heal, forming a callus around the fracture site.

Surgical Interventions for Severe Cases

In some instances, surgery may be necessary to treat a broken collarbone. When is surgical intervention required for a clavicle fracture?

• When nerves or blood vessels are injured
• If the broken bones pierce through the skin (open fracture)
• When bone fragments are severely displaced
• In cases where non-surgical methods have failed to heal the fracture

The surgical procedure for collarbone fractures is known as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This involves realigning the bone fragments and securing them with plates, screws, or pins to facilitate proper healing.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Collarbone Fracture

The healing process following a collarbone fracture is crucial for regaining full shoulder function. Understanding the recovery timeline and rehabilitation steps can help patients and caregivers manage expectations and ensure optimal healing.

Typical Healing Timeline for Clavicle Fractures

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

• Age of the patient (children generally heal faster than adults)
• Severity of the fracture
• Overall health and nutrition status
• Adherence to treatment and rehabilitation protocols

On average, bone union in children takes about three to six weeks. However, complete recovery, including regaining full strength and range of motion, may take several months.

Rehabilitation Exercises and Physical Therapy

What role does physical therapy play in collarbone fracture recovery? Rehabilitation is crucial for:

• Restoring full range of motion to the shoulder joint
• Strengthening muscles weakened by immobilization
• Preventing stiffness and improving flexibility
• Ensuring proper healing and alignment of the bone

Physical therapy typically begins with gentle range of motion exercises while the patient is still wearing the sling. As healing progresses, more intensive exercises are introduced to build strength and improve overall shoulder function.

Long-Term Considerations and Potential Complications

While most collarbone fractures heal without significant long-term issues, it’s important to be aware of potential complications and ongoing considerations.

Possible Complications of Clavicle Fractures

What complications can arise from a broken collarbone? Although rare, some potential issues include:

• Malunion (improper alignment of the healed bone)
• Nonunion (failure of the bone to heal completely)
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Persistent pain or stiffness in the shoulder
• Visible deformity or bump at the fracture site

How can these complications be prevented or addressed? Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are essential to monitor healing progress and detect any issues early. In some cases, additional interventions or surgeries may be necessary to correct persistent problems.

Long-Term Impact on Sports and Activities

Can children return to sports after recovering from a collarbone fracture? In most cases, yes. However, the timing and approach to returning to physical activities should be carefully managed:

1. Follow physician guidelines for when to resume sports
2. Gradually increase activity levels to avoid re-injury
3. Use appropriate protective gear when returning to contact sports
4. Be aware of any limitations or modifications needed for specific activities
5. Continue strengthening exercises to maintain shoulder stability

It’s crucial to remember that each case is unique, and the return to sports should be individualized based on the child’s recovery progress and the specific demands of their chosen activities.

Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Collarbone Fractures in Children

The impact of a collarbone fracture extends beyond the physical realm, often affecting a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. Understanding and addressing these aspects is crucial for a holistic recovery process.

Managing Fear and Anxiety

How can parents help children cope with the fear and anxiety associated with a broken collarbone? Several strategies can be effective:

• Open communication about the injury and healing process
• Encouragement and positive reinforcement during recovery
• Involving the child in decision-making about their care when appropriate
• Providing age-appropriate explanations of medical procedures
• Maintaining a sense of normalcy in daily routines

Why is addressing emotional well-being important in recovery? A positive mental state can contribute to faster healing and better compliance with treatment protocols. Children who feel supported and understood are more likely to engage actively in their recovery process.

Supporting Academic and Social Needs During Recovery

How can caregivers ensure that a child’s academic and social development isn’t significantly impacted during recovery from a collarbone fracture? Consider the following approaches:

1. Communicate with teachers about the child’s condition and any necessary accommodations
2. Arrange for home tutoring or remote learning options if needed
3. Encourage safe social interactions to prevent isolation
4. Adapt play activities to include the child while respecting physical limitations
5. Teach peers about the injury to foster understanding and support

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery, caregivers can help ensure a more comprehensive and successful healing process for children with collarbone fractures.

Innovative Treatments and Future Perspectives in Collarbone Fracture Management

As medical science advances, new approaches to treating and managing collarbone fractures are emerging. These innovations promise to improve recovery times and outcomes for patients of all ages.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Modalities

What new treatments are being developed for clavicle fractures? Several innovative approaches are showing promise:

• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Biodegradable implants that don’t require removal
• 3D-printed custom casts and braces
• Ultrasound therapy to accelerate bone healing
• Stem cell treatments to enhance bone regeneration

How might these innovations change the landscape of collarbone fracture treatment? These advancements could lead to faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved functional outcomes. Minimally invasive techniques, for instance, can result in smaller scars and quicker return to activities.

Research and Future Directions

What areas of research are currently focusing on improving collarbone fracture management? Several key areas are under investigation:

1. Personalized treatment plans based on genetic factors
2. Advanced imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis
3. Development of smart materials for adaptive support during healing
4. Virtual reality applications in rehabilitation
5. Machine learning algorithms to predict healing outcomes

These research directions aim to tailor treatments more effectively to individual patients, potentially improving recovery rates and reducing complications.

As we look to the future, the management of collarbone fractures is likely to become increasingly sophisticated, offering patients more options and better outcomes. However, it’s important to note that traditional methods remain effective and will continue to play a crucial role in treatment, especially for straightforward cases in children.

In conclusion, understanding the complexities of collarbone fractures, from causes and diagnosis to treatment and recovery, is crucial for effective management. Whether dealing with a child’s sports injury or a newborn’s birth-related fracture, a comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of healing is key. As medical science advances, we can look forward to even more effective and personalized treatments, ensuring better outcomes for patients with clavicle fractures.

Broken Collarbone | Let our Doctors fix your child’s Collarbone

Broken Collarbone

The collar bone (also known as clavicle) is an S-shaped bone that connects the breastbone (i.e. sternum) to the shoulder blade bone (scapular). The collarbone breaks most often in children.

Although in some cases, collarbone fracture may signify child neglect or abuse, it is usually common as a result of the normal activities of a toddler. Since young children may not be able to describe their pain, it is important to know the signs of a broken clavicle so that you can spot an injury in your child.

Causes of a Broken Collarbone

Collarbone fractures usually occur when the child falls on the side of the shoulder. They can also be a result of a direct blow to the collarbone. For instance, if the child is hit in front of the shoulder with a baseball or stick, it can lead to a broken collarbone. In rare cases, broken collarbones occur as a result of a fall on an outstretched arm.

Broken collarbones are mostly common in children that participate in football, soccer, and hockey or sports that have a high risk of falling, like biking. It is important to use adequate padding and also take measures to reduce the risk of collarbone fractures.

How Collarbone Fracture Occurs in a Newborn

A broken collarbone is the most common injury that newborns sustain during birth. It occurs as a result of trauma or difficult delivery. Some factors that increase the risk of a newborn sustaining a broken clavicle include the newborn’s large size, a narrow birth canal, the newborn’s shoulder getting stuck, and the use of tools to help in delivering the baby.

Diagnosis

If you think your child has broken his or her clavicle, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The medical practitioner will:

• Examine the affected area
• Take X-rays of the injury to determine if there’s a fracture. The X-rays will also help the doctor know the exact location of the break, how severe it is, and if other bones have also broken.

If the doctor thinks a joint or artery has been damaged, he will request more tests like:

• Arteriogram/ Arteriography: This uses X-rays and dyes to see the inner parts of the arteries.
• CT scans: They provide more detailed pictures than X-rays.
• Ultrasound: This uses sound waves to create an image of what’s going on in the body.

Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone

The signs and symptoms of a broken collarbone in children include:

• Pain at the top of the shoulder or the clavicle, especially when the child moves the shoulder
• Difficulty in moving the arm or shoulder
• Bruising or weakness
• Lump in the affected area
• Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the shoulder or arm
• Deformed collarbone
• The child supports the arm with the other hand to reduce pain

The commonest sign of a broken collarbone in a newborn is crying with the movement of the affected arm as a result of pain in the collarbone. The newborn will feel pain when he or she is lifted under the arms. The baby may not be able to move the injured arm as much as the arm that is not injured.

If the injury has affected the nerves of the arm, the newborn may find it difficult to move the arm and the arm may hang limply at his or her side. The injured shoulder will appear slightly lower than the other shoulder. The healing process of the bone may cause a lump to develop at the spot of the fracture (this will be noticed after a few weeks and can be felt when you touch the area).

Treatment for Broken Collarbone

It is important to restrict the movement of any fracture to help in healing. To restrict the movement of a broken collarbone, the child will need to wear an arm sling.

How long this will be worn will be determined by how severe the fracture is. Bone union takes about three to six weeks for children. A collarbone fracture in a newborn will heal with only pain control and by carefully handling the baby.

The Treatment for a Broken Collarbone also known as a clavicle fracture in children:

Medications

The doctor may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce inflammation and pain. If the pain is severe, the child will need a prescription medication that contains a narcotic for some days.

Therapy

Therapy starts after Treatment for a Broken Collarbone. It is usually important to start some motion to reduce stiffness in the shoulder while the child is still wearing a sling. After removing the sling, the doctor may recommend other physical therapies to improve the strength of the muscle, joint motion, and flexibility.

Surgery

Surgery may be required to treat a broken collarbone if:

• Nerves or blood vessels are injured
• The broken bones break through the skin
• Pieces of the broken collarbone are in a critical position

The surgery for collarbone fracture is referred to as open reduction and internal fixation. The operation will put pieces of the broken collarbone back to their position (reduction). The process involves the use of metal devices to keep the bones in place (fixation). The orthopedic surgeon may perform the surgery using the following:

Plates and screws

These will be attached to the external surfaces of the bone. They are not removed until after the bone heals. They are only removed if they cause discomfort (usually at least a year after the surgery).

Pins or screws

These are removed once the injury has healed.

When Can the Child Go Back to Sports?

The doctor will have to see the child again to know if he or she is in good condition to go back to sports. The child can go back to sports when the following are noticed:

• There is no pain when the collarbone is pressed
• The strength of the shoulder is normal, and
• The child can move and use the arm and shoulder without feeling any pain.

Generally, kids can resume non-contact sports (like swimming or running) after 6 weeks and contact sports (like hockey, football, and lacrosse) within 8 to 12 weeks.

Complications of a Broken Collarbone

Broken collarbones usually heal without any difficulty. If complications occur, they might include:

Blood vessel or nerve injury

The rough ends of the broken collarbone may injure nerves and blood vessels in their vicinity. If you notice coldness or numbness in your child’s arm, seek immediate medical help.

Delayed healing

A collarbone that is severely broken may not heal quickly. The bone may also become short as a result of the poor union of the bones while healing.

A lump in the bone

The area where the bone joints together usually form a bony lump (this is part of the healing process). Most of them disappear with time while some are permanent.

How Long Does it Take a Broken Collarbone to Heal?

How long it takes a broken clavicle to heal depends on a series of factors. These include the age of the child, the location of the fracture, and the number of pieces the bone breaks into. Collarbone fractures in children below the age of 8 years may heal within 4 or 5 weeks. Broken collarbones in adolescents may take up to 6 and 8 weeks to heal.

However, clavicle fractures in adults or teenagers that have stopped growing may take about 10 to 12 weeks to heal (it can also take longer). Most broken collarbones heal completely within four weeks in adults.

Collarbone that breaks into more pieces usually takes longer to heal than those with a few fragments.

What Can Be Done While Waiting for the Broken Collarbone to Heal?

The child should be able to move his or her fingers, wrist, and shoulder without too much pain within a few days of sustaining the injury. As the pain in the collarbone area reduces, the child should start moving the shoulder joint a little to prevent the joint from tightening up. As the pain starts subsiding, it is required to start moving the shoulder to prevent frozen shoulder (a condition where the shoulder gets stiff).

The doctor may show you the motions of the shoulder. The shoulder motion does not prevent the broken collarbone from healing once the injury has started healing. Once the fracture has completely healed, motion is not restricted. You should only try to strengthen the arm and shoulder after the fracture has healed. Exercises should also be directed by the physician.

Request an Appointment

A broken collarbone is a painful injury. In most cases, patients don’t need surgery, while some require an operation to arrange the pieces of the collarbone back in their position. Physical therapy is also required to help the child resume daily activities.

If you notice any sign of a broken collarbone in your child (or other forms of fracture), talk to the orthopedic experts at Medical City Children’s Orthopedic and Spine Specialists. We will examine the child to know what the problem is. We will also provide the Treatment for a Broken Collarbone and suggest exercises that will reduce pain and stiffness and restore strength.

Our board-certified physicians and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons are skilled in treating children and teenagers with broken collarbones. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

We Can Help!

Finally, our doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists understand the importance of maintaining your child’s health. In addition, our experts and specialists have the training, knowledge, and experience required to take care of a sprained or broken ankle that is causing pain to your child. If your child experiences any form of ankle pain, don’t hesitate to call our office at 214-833-0917 to schedule an appointment at one of our four locations. 

Clavicle Fractures | Texas Children’s Hospital

What is a Clavicle Fracture and How Does it Occur?

The clavicle, also known as the “collarbone,” is a thin bone that attaches the shoulder to the sternum (breastbone). A broken collarbone usually happens when a child falls directly onto the shoulder.

How is a Clavicle Fracture Diagnosed?

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A child with a clavicle fracture usually has pain, swelling, and possibly bruising directly over the clavicle, usually midway between the neck and the shoulder. Most likely, they will initially support the elbow with the opposite hand as allowing the arm to hang at the side is usually painful. They will probably not want to use or move the arm that is injured. In most cases, X-rays confirm the diagnosis. Occasionally, a very subtle fracture cannot be seen on X-ray, and your physician can make the diagnosis through their exam.

How is a Clavicle Fracture Treated?

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Unlike other fractures, a clavicle fracture does NOT need to be lined up perfectly to heal well. Clavicle fractures are initially treated by putting the arm on the injured side in a sling until the pain improves. The sling does not stabilize the fracture or help it to heal sooner. It is used to provide comfort to the child. The sling is not needed when sleeping.

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Once the pain improves (usually in 2-3 weeks), the child does not need to wear the sling any longer and may start working on moving the shoulder. Caregivers may still consider having the child wear the sling to school as a reminder not only to them but also to other children that the fracture has not completely healed. It is also a reminder that activities putting the child at risk for a fall should be avoided. Your physician may have the child return to clinic for X-rays in approximately 6 weeks.

Clavicle fractures in younger children may heal within 6 weeks, but it may take 10-12 weeks for a clavicle fracture to heal in an older child or adolescent. Clavicle fractures rarely require surgery in children. Surgery is occasionally considered in teenagers with significantly displaced fractures.

What is the Long-Term Outcome After a Clavicle Fracture?

Clavicle fractures in children usually heal in 6 to 12 weeks. Children should have no problems returning to sports or other physical activities after the fracture is healed. Clavicle fractures usually heal with a significant amount of callous (new bone that surrounds the fracture as it heals). Because the clavicle is directly under the skin and because of the new bone that the body creates to heal the fracture, the child will have a “bump” at the fracture site. In younger children, the bump will usually go away over time. In adolescents, the “bump” may improve but will likely remain. Children are unlikely to have any functional problems following a healed clavicle fracture.

How long does a displaced clavicle fracture heal?

How long does a displaced clavicle fracture heal?

If treatment is started on time and the patient follows all the doctor’s recommendations, the healing time after fracture of the clavicle usually does not exceed 10 weeks for adults and 3 weeks for children.

Why is a clavicle fracture dangerous?

In most cases the fracture of the clavicle grows together without consequences. But sometimes the following complications are possible: Damage to nerves or blood vessels. The pointed ends of a broken clavicle can damage nearby nerves and blood vessels and, in such cases, this may be manifested by numbness or coldness in the hand.

How long does it take for a clavicle fracture to heal?

During the entire treatment period, the baby should not be turned over or placed on the side of the body where the fracture is located . Usually damaged bone grows together after 20-25 days.

Can the deso dressing be removed at night?

for night bandage must be removed ; – For fractures and sprains, use a scarf bandage or bandage Deso , which are worn until complete recovery – 1.5-2 months. An abduction bandage is also used until complete recovery.

How long should you wear a bandage for a broken collarbone?

Duration of wearing dressing Deso depends on the nature of the injury. With shoulder dislocation, her is worn by from a week to a month. Younger and more active patients require longer immobilization to prevent secondary injury. With uncomplicated closed fractures of the shoulder or collarbones item is worn for about a month.

Can I sleep with a brace on my arm?

Yes, orthosis can be worn at night , this type of treatment is provided for some diseases.

Why do I need a shoulder brace?

Shoulder brace is used to fix the shoulder after injury, surgery, as well as for some acute or chronic diseases. Types of products vary depending on the materials and design features.

What is the name of the arm bandage for a fracture?

Bandage Deso is a fixator of the upper limb, which allows the patient to quickly rehabilitate after an injury. is prescribed for injuries of the collarbone or shoulder, humerus, dislocation of the shoulder, as well as during recovery after surgery and rehabilitation.

How to determine the size of the shoulder brace?

For the correct selection of size supporting bandage on shoulder joint ORLETT AS-302 it is necessary to measure the length of the forearm from the top of the olecranon to the metacarpophalangeal joint of the fifth finger with a measuring tape . Then, according to the table of sizes, a suitable brace size is selected for shoulder joint ORLETT.

How to choose the right size knee brace?

In order for to determine the size of correctly, the following measurements must be taken:

1. girth 10 – 15 cm above patella ;
2. girth of the knee along its center line;
3. circumference of the knee 10 – 15 cm below patella .

How to choose the correct size of knee pads?

The main parameter for selecting the kneecap in size is the girth of the knee in the center of the patella. For a more accurate selection, you should also measure the circumference of the leg 15 cm above the knee and the circumference of the leg 15 cm below the knee. Knee pads of varying degrees of fixation are associated with various diseases of the knee joint.

Can the bandage be removed at night?

Usually, underwear is put on immediately after the operation, and it must be removed after the stitch has completely healed. Most models are intended for permanent wear – a break should be taken only for night .

Can I sleep with a bandage on?

There are no specific prohibitions regarding the sitting position. sit in it you can , but purposefully put on bandage to sit in an armchair with a book or at the TV is still not worth it. Its main function is to support while driving. But regarding sleep in bandage , doctors of the same opinion: it is impossible to sleep in it.

How long should I wear a postoperative bandage?

For maximum effect, doctors advise to wear bandage for about 5 hours a day, or wear it several times for 2-3 hours and then take it off. Sleeping is also recommended without bandage .

What can replace the postoperative bandage?

What is usually tried to replace the postoperative bandage

• Elastic bandage Elastic bandage is the very first thing that comes to mind for those who do not want to buy a abdominal bandage . …
• Slimming underwear …
• Shaping corsets …
• Pieces of fabric or towels …
• Self-sewn bandage

How to put on the brace after abdominal surgery?

As a general rule, after abdominal surgery, the bandage is worn for 2 weeks to 3 months… paper fabric without seams. …

How to put on the postoperative bandage correctly?

Postoperative supportive version can be worn around the waist. Then fix it with a special velcro, or tighten it with a stretch ( bandage with velcro is safer). You can wear a tightening structure for no more than 8 hours a day.

How to wear a bandage for an umbilical hernia?

When using hernia band (as umbilical , and inguinal) two fundamental rules should be strictly observed: 1) the hernial bandage is put on and removed only in the supine position; 2) before putting on the bandage , the hernia is reduced into the hernial sac — wear the bandage with the hernia not reduced categorically …

How to wear the ostomy bandage correctly?

How to wear the ostomy band correctly It is put on immediately after surgery in the supine position, in a relaxed position of the body, then the organs take the correct anatomical position. This will avoid discomfort when wearing. If there is no special prescription from a doctor, the accessory is removed at night.

How to wear a brace?

Under no circumstances should the belt be worn around the clock. Bandage must be removed at night and during daytime sleep. During the day, bandage must be removed every 2-3 hours, resting from bandage for about 30-40 minutes. But from about the 38th week of bearing a child bandage begin to wear as rarely as possible.

How to wear the lumbar belt correctly?

Basic rules:

1. Handle in a horizontal position.
2. Unfasten the side straps from belt (2).
3. Insert the product under the waist. …
4. Fasten the main fastener (1). …
5. Pull up the side straps (2) and secure to the belt.
6. Raise carefully, adjust the product if necessary.

Can I lie down in a back brace?

It is strictly forbidden to sleep in a bandage; Do not fasten the orthopedic product too tightly so as not to disturb blood circulation; It is not recommended to wear a corrector for spins for more than 8 consecutive hours.

What happens if you wear a corset all the time?

If you constantly wear corset , you risk your health: difficulty in breathing and heart function, insufficient supply of oxygen and blood to internal organs – these are far from all the minuses. The use of corset during training does not allow the muscles to work at full strength.

Can I lie down in a corset?

It is forbidden to sleep in corset . Tension corset increases gradually. It takes 2-4 weeks to adapt, starting with low tension and increasing every 2-3 days. In corset , it is forbidden to practice spotting, dance, run and make active movements.

How many hours should a corset be worn?

How long to wear If the corrector is purchased for prevention, then you need to start wearing from 30 minutes a day, gradually increasing the time to 3-5 hours. For a noticeable effect posture corrector wear from 3 to 6 months.

Dislocation of the collarbone: symptoms, treatment, prevention

The collarbone is a small bone that connects the shoulder to the sternum, stabilizing arm movements. Sudden movements, contact sports, unsuccessful falls on an outstretched hand provoke a dislocation of the collarbone. In this situation, the bone is displaced from the joint either from the side of the sternum or in the shoulder region (where it connects to the upper end of the scapular bone), there is a sharp pain that becomes stronger if the person tries to move the arm or lift it. Similar symptoms are possible with a fracture, injuries of other bones in this area, so it is important to contact a traumatologist who will make the correct diagnosis and determine the tactics of treatment.

Dislocation of the collarbone: how can it happen?

Often, dislocation of the collarbone occurs in adolescents and young men who play football, handball or volleyball, extreme sports (auto racing, motorcycle racing, rock climbing, parkour), contact sports (wrestlers, boxers, judoists), lifting heavy objects. A dislocation of the collarbone is possible if there is a fall on the arm or back, with blows to the shoulder, when the greatest force falls on the region of the scapula, shoulder joint or the collarbone itself.

A special variant of clavicle dislocation occurs in newborns, during complicated, rapid labor.

According to trauma departments, this injury occurs in 5-12% of all dislocations. There are two types of dislocation of the clavicle:

• sternoclavicular, if that part of the bone adjacent to the sternum is displaced from its place;
• acromioclavicular, if the integrity of the joint connecting the scapula (due to the acromial process of the bone) with the clavicle is violated.

Damage in the area of ​​the shoulder and the process of the scapula occurs 4-5 times more often, since this part of the body is more mobile. Often, injury occurs if a person falls, reflexively moving his arm away and trying to slow down the movement of the body. Symptoms of dislocation are possible if a sharp direct blow falls on the junction of the clavicle, with a sharp transverse compression of the zone of the scapula, sternum and the clavicle itself.

Direct injury most often provokes dislocation of the acromial joint. Indirect damage, if adjacent tissues are injured, leads to the exit of the clavicle from its rightful place in the sternum.

The clavicular joints are quite strong, inactive, strengthened by powerful ligaments. Therefore, rather powerful injuries lead to dislocations. Along with the displacement of the clavicle, ligament rupture occurs. If only one ligament is torn, incomplete dislocation is determined (doctors call it subluxation), if two ligaments with the capsule surrounding them are damaged, this is a complete dislocation.

An injury to the collarbone is considered fresh if a physician examines and detects a dislocation within 3 days of the injury. In the period from 3 days to 3 weeks – this is a stale dislocation. When damage is detected after 3-4 weeks or even later, these are chronic dislocations. It is much more difficult to treat them, as the tissues gradually change, adjusting to the new position of the collarbone.

Symptoms of dislocation of the collarbone

The symptoms that occur after a dislocation of the collarbone vary depending on the nature of the injury – whether the acromial (shoulder) end of the clavicle or the sternal end is affected.

Acromioclavicular dislocation is manifested by a sharp pain at the site of injury, severe swelling of tissues under the skin. The edge of the clavicle protrudes upward and towards the back, any touch to this place is painful, because of this, hand movements are limited. A special “symptom of the key” may appear – if you press on the protruding end of the clavicle, it temporarily falls into place, and if you remove your finger, it sticks again. If one ligament is injured (incomplete dislocation) – the edge of the collarbone does not stick out much. If the injured arm is pulled down, the shoulder moves, and the collarbone also sticks out. With a complete dislocation, the edge of the clavicle is very noticeable, slight pulling of the arm leads to an even greater protrusion of the edge of the clavicle.

Sternoclavicular dislocation is, first of all, pain in the upper part of the sternum, severe swelling of the tissues. If the clavicle is dislocated forward, a tubercle appears under the skin, if the clavicle is dislocated backward, the skin over the joint is noticeable, there may be a feeling of difficulty breathing or pain with a deep breath. If this is a suprasternal dislocation, the edge of the clavicle protrudes above the upper edge of the sternum.

Chronic dislocation of the collarbone is usually incomplete, and then there are practically no complaints of pain and swelling. A person can only note the deformation of tissues in the area of ​​​​the shoulder or sternum. If this is a complete chronic dislocation, there may be periodic pain at the site of bone displacement and a decrease in muscle strength in the arm.

Treatment of dislocation of the clavicle

In order to properly treat an injury in the region of the collarbone, an accurate diagnosis is needed to determine the type of dislocation and its localization (sternal or scapular part of the clavicle).

Diagnosis

An experienced traumatologist can make a diagnosis immediately, after examining the patient and clarifying the method of injury (fall, blow to the shoulder, accident). When examining, the doctor notes changes in the area of ​​​​the shoulder girdle, swelling and the protruding edge of the collarbone, gently probes the damaged area, noting where the pain is most pronounced and whether there is a distance between the collarbone and the sternum or scapula.

Radiography helps to confirm the diagnosis and clarify the type of dislocation. If this is an incomplete dislocation, the doctor compares the collarbones from the affected and healthy side, in some cases, before taking the picture, the patient is given a small weight in the arm so that the shoulder drops. In this case, the deviation of the clavicle will be more noticeable.

Modern methods of treatment

We asked questions about the tactics of treatment of dislocations of the clavicle orthopedist Maxim Kolinsky .

Indications for surgical treatment, i.e. open reduction of dislocation, sternal end of the clavicle with joint fixation and ligament suturing are strictly limited. The operation is performed only for athletes or young people leading an active lifestyle. In case of damage to the acromioclavicular joint, if only the acromioclavicular ligament is affected, and, therefore, there is no complete dislocation of the clavicle, conservative treatment is indicated.

In case of complete dislocation of the acromial end of the clavicle, when not only the acromioclavicular, but also the coracoclavicular ligaments are torn, recovery is possible only in case of surgical treatment!

The most modern and optimal method is the combination of thread and fixation buttons placed above the clavicle and below the coracoid process. This technique is minimally invasive (intervention is minimal) and can even be performed arthroscopically, so it is easier for the patient to tolerate and has virtually no complications. In fact, it is a prosthesis of the coracoclavicular ligament. To date, this is the only method of fixation of the acromioclavicular ligament that does not violate the biomechanics of the movement of the clavicle, which significantly speeds up the recovery time.

In the case of conservative treatment and in the early postoperative period, it is better to use modern orthopedic orthoses and braces for the shoulder joint for immobilization, rather than bulky and uncomfortable plaster casts. An alternative and quite convenient, inexpensive method is the use of teip bandages.

Prevention of dislocation of the collarbone

The main method of prevention of dislocation of the collarbone is the prevention of injuries in sports and at home, in various hazardous industries. If you fall and experience pain in the shoulder or near the sternum, you should immediately seek help from a doctor.

Popular questions and answers

What complications can occur in case of dislocation of the collarbone

Anterior and upper dislocations are not dangerous, with the posterior one, compression of large vessels may occur, as well as difficulty in breathing in the victim, which requires urgent reduction of the dislocation in a hospital and under anesthesia . As for the dislocation of the acromial end of the clavicle, there are usually no life-threatening complications here.

But untimely seeking specialized help, or incorrect tactics of treatment and rehabilitation entails the development of instability in the sternoclavicular or acromioclavicular joints with the development of post-traumatic arthrosis, which is accompanied by chronic pain syndrome, muscle weakness and a decrease in the function of the entire upper limb.

How long does recovery after a dislocation of the clavicle last?

In the early post-traumatic and post-operative periods, osteopathic treatment is indicated for quick relief of edema and pain (1-3 sessions once a week are enough), as an auxiliary method – kinesiology taping.