What is the recovery time for a clavicle fracture? How can smoking, medical conditions, and medications affect the healing process? What can you expect after a collarbone break, and what steps should you take to aid your recovery?

Understanding Clavicle Fractures

A clavicle, or collarbone, fracture is a common injury that affects not only the bone but also the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. These types of breaks are often referred to as fractures, breaks, or cracks, but they all essentially mean the same thing – a disruption in the bone’s structure.

Recovery Timelines

The recovery timeline for a clavicle fracture typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, though it’s normal to experience aches and discomfort beyond this initial healing period. In some cases, the area may remain more sensitive for several months after the injury.

Factors Affecting Recovery

Several factors can influence the healing process for a clavicle fracture, including:

• Smoking: Smoking affects all tissues and can significantly slow down fracture healing, potentially even preventing it altogether. Quitting smoking during the recovery process can help ensure the best possible outcome.
• General Health: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may slow down the healing process. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying active can support recovery.
• Medication: Some medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, have been shown to delay fracture healing. It’s important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional.

What to Expect After a Clavicle Fracture

It’s common for a lump to form around the injured area of the collarbone as the healing process takes place. In many cases, this lump will remain even after the fracture has healed, and it doesn’t require additional medical attention unless there are changes to its appearance.

Following the initial diagnosis and X-ray, the fracture will typically be managed using a Poly Sling, a type of supportive device that helps immobilize the injured area.

Rehabilitation and Recovery Strategies

There are several steps you can take to aid your recovery after a clavicle fracture:

1. 0 to 3 weeks after injury: Wear a sling during the day, except for exercises and personal hygiene. Start some exercises for your shoulder, but avoid lifting your elbow above shoulder height as this may be painful.
2. 3 to 6 weeks after injury: Try to reduce the use of the sling, begin normal light activities with your arm and shoulder, and increase your range of motion. Avoid heavy lifting.
3. 6 to 12 weeks after injury: Resume normal day-to-day activities, but be guided by any pain you experience. Start to lift your arm overhead, but avoid contact sports until at least 12 weeks after the injury.

Managing Swelling and Bruising

Swelling is a common occurrence after a clavicle fracture, and it can sometimes last for months. The amount of swelling can vary depending on your position, activity, and the time of day. To help reduce swelling, you should keep the joints in your arm moving normally, find a balance between rest and activity, and use gentle self-massage to push the fluid towards your shoulder.

Bruising is also normal after a fracture and can be widespread, appearing a long way from the actual injury site. The bruising may change color as you recover.

Addressing Pain and Discomfort

It’s normal to experience some discomfort in the areas around your fracture, including the soft tissues, nearby joints, and areas that have been immobilized. Pain can change from day to day and doesn’t always depend on what you’re doing. It’s common to have pain at rest, and some people may also experience discomfort in the fracture site during colder weather. Your local pharmacy can provide advice on managing pain after a fracture.

Returning to Normal Activities

When it comes to returning to your normal activities, there are a few things to consider:

• Driving: You should contact your insurance provider before driving, as your injury may affect your coverage. Once you’re out of your sling, you must be able to safely perform an emergency stop or maneuver.
• Work: Your return to work will depend on the type of work you do and your employer. It may be possible to discuss a phased return to work or changed duties, and you don’t necessarily need to see a healthcare professional to return to work.

Clavicle (collar bone) fracture | NHS inform

Your injury may be referred to as a fracture, break or crack. These terms all mean the same thing.

When you have a fracture, it’s not just the bone that’s affected. You’ll also have injured some of the soft tissues around it. Soft tissues include the:

• muscles
• ligaments
• tendons
• nerves

A clavicle (collar bone) fracture.

Recovery times

A clavicle fracture can take between 6 to 12 weeks to heal.

It’s normal to have aches and discomfort beyond this. It’s also common for the area to be more sensitive for several months afterwards.

What can affect your recovery?

There are some things that might affect your recovery.

Smoking

Smoking affects all your tissues and slows facture healing times. In some people, it can stop healing altogether.

Stopping smoking as your fracture heals will help to ensure the best recovery.

Get help to stop smoking.

General health

Some medical conditions, like diabetes, may slow down the healing process.

Eating a healthy diet and keeping yourself active will help your recovery.

Medication

Some medications can slow down fracture healing. If you have concerns about your medication talk to a healthcare professional.

Anti-inflammatory medication, like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, have been shown to delay healing.

What to expect after a clavicle fracture

It’s common for a lump to form around the injured area at your collar bone as the healing takes place. In many cases this will remain after your clavicle has healed. You don’t need to seek help for this unless there is a change to the lump.

Following your X-ray and diagnosis, your fracture will be managed in a Poly Sling.

How to fit a Poly Sling
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZFnoKjw_Zs)

Rehabilitation plan

There are things you can do to help your recovery after a clavicle fracture.

0 to 3 weeks after your injury

Just after your injury, you should:

• wear sling during the day except for exercises and personal hygiene
• choose whether to wear your sling at night
• start some exercises for your shoulder
• avoid lifting your elbow above shoulder height as this may be painful

3 to 6 weeks after your injury

Between 3 to 6 weeks after your injury, you should:

• try not to use your sling
• begin normal light activities with your arm and shoulder
• increase movement
• avoid heavy lifting

6 to 12 weeks after your injury

The injury should be healed between 6 to 12 weeks but heavy tasks may cause discomfort.

You should aim to:

• resume normal day to day activities but be guided by any pain that you experience – stop if movements become painful
• start to lift your arm overhead
• avoid contact sport until at least 12 weeks after the injury

Help and support

If your collar bone hasn’t improved within 6 weeks of following this advice, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.

Swelling

It’s normal to have swelling near the fracture site. It often spreads down your arm.

Swelling can sometimes last for months. The amount of swelling can also change depending on:

• your position
• your activity
• the time of day

It’s important that swelling is managed well to help your recovery.

How to reduce swelling

To help reduce the swelling you should:

• keep the other joints in your arm moving normally
• find a balance between rest and activity
• Use self massage to reduce swelling – gently use your fingertips to push the fluid towards your shoulder

Bruising

It’s normal to have bruising after a fracture.

Bruising can be widespread and may appear a long way from your fracture. It can be very purple to start with and may change colour as you recover.

Pain after a fracture

It’s normal to have some discomfort in the areas around your fracture. The areas affected can be:

• other soft tissues
• nearby joints
• areas that have been immobilised

Pain can change from day to day and it doesn’t always depend on what you’re doing. It’s common to have pain at rest.

It’s normal to have some pain even when your fracture has healed. Some people also experience discomfort in the fracture site during colder weather.

Your local pharmacy can give you advice on managing pain after a fracture.

Find your local pharmacy

Use Scotland’s Service Directory to find your local pharmacy.

Pharmacies

Getting back to normal activities

There are some things you should consider when trying to get back to your normal activities.

Driving

You should contact your insurance provider before driving. Your injury may affect your insurance.

Once you’re out of your sling, you must be able to safely perform an emergency stop or manoeuvre.

You should always be in full control of your vehicle.

Work

Your return to work will depend on the type of work you do and your employer. It may be possible to discuss a phased return to work or changed duties.

You don’t need to see a healthcare professional to return to work.

Daily activities

Keep doing any activities you’re able to, and as your pain allows. Gradually increase what you do.

Reduced flexibility and strength may make things more difficult to start with. This will get better as you slowly build up to all your usual activities.

Mood

Frustration or low mood after an injury is normal. As you get back to normal life this should get better.

Falls

Loss of confidence is common after a fracture.

Get advice about preventing falls.

Bone scanning

You may be sent a letter inviting you for a scan of your bone density after a fracture.

It’s routine to be assessed for any further risk of fracture, especially if you:

• are over the age of 50
• have increased risk factors for fracture

Exercises for your shoulder

You can practice exercises for your injured shoulder.

You should aim to do these exercises 4 to 5 times a day.

Stop these movements if they make your symptoms worse, or cause new pain.

Source:
MSK Expert Panel – Opens in new browser window

Last updated:

16 December 2022

How can we improve this page?

Help us improve NHS inform

Don’t include personal information e.g. name, location or any personal health conditions.

Email Address

e.g. [email protected]

Message

Maximum of 500 characters

Community content from Health Unlocked – This will open in a new window.

What Happens When a Collarbone Breaks?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

In this Article

• What Is a Broken Collarbone?
• Broken Collarbone Symptoms
• Broken Collarbone Causes
• Broken Collarbone Diagnosis
• Broken Collarbone Treatment
• Broken Collarbone Recovery
• Preventing a Broken Collarbone

A broken collarbone, or clavicle fracture, is a break in one of two long, thin bones that connect the breastbone to your shoulder blades. You can feel or see your collarbones toward the top of your chest, running beneath the top of your shoulders.

There are three types of collarbone (clavicle) fractures: 

• Middle of the collarbone between the breastbone and the shoulder joint (the most common type of broken collarbone)
• Near the shoulder joint
• Near the breastbone (the least common type of broken collarbone)

A broken collarbone is usually pretty obvious. You might feel it break or hear a crack when it happens. Afterward, you’ll probably have:

• Pain and swelling
• Trouble moving your arm and shoulder
• A grinding feeling when you try to raise your arm
• Sagging in your shoulder
• A bump around the area of the break

Usually, broken collarbones happen from an accident. 

Common causes of a broken collarbone include: 

• Getting hit or falling on your shoulder
• Falling hard on your hand or arm. This transfers the force of the impact to your collarbone, which snaps
• Falling off a bicycle

Go to your doctor or an emergency room right away if you think you’ve broken your collarbone, especially if there’s tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hand or arm. If your injury is near the sternum (the breastbone) and you have trouble breathing or swallowing, it could be something more serious. 

Try not to move your arm. Either hold it close to your body with your other arm or with a sling with the hand raised higher than the elbow.

To diagnose a broken collarbone, the doctor will give you a thorough physical exam. You’ll need X-rays to confirm the break. If the doctor wants a more detailed look, they might do a CT scan, which uses a series of X-rays to make a picture of the area.

Usually a broken collarbone will heal on its own. You just need to give it time.

To help speed the healing, you might get:

• A splint or brace to keep your shoulder from moving
• A sling for your arm, which you might use for a few days
• Anti-inflammatory painkillers, like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, which will help with pain and swelling. These drugs do have side effects, like a higher risk of bleeding and ulcers. You should only use them for a little while unless your doctor says otherwise. Long-term use can delay bone healing.
• Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises
• An ice pack on the broken bone for 15-20 minutes every few hours to ease pain and reduce swelling. 

In rare cases — especially when ligaments are damaged — you may need surgery to mend a collarbone fracture.

It might take a few weeks to months for a broken collarbone to heal. People recover at different speeds. 

• In young children (under age 8), a broken collarbone may heal in 4-5 weeks. 
• Older kids tend to get better in 6-8  weeks. 
• A broken collarbone in adults and teens who’ve stopped growing can take 10-12 weeks or longer to heal.

You’re ready to return to your previous level of physical activity when:

• You can move your arm and shoulder without any pain.
• The doctor has taken an X-ray and confirmed that the break is healed.

Don’t rush back into your activities too soon. If you start working out before your collarbone is healed, you could break it again. Ask the doctor when it’s safe to return to sports after a broken collarbone. In general, you should wait 8-12 weeks before playing any contact sports, like football or hockey.

Collarbone fractures are tough to prevent, since they usually happen during accidental falls. Even the best-trained athletes can slip sometimes. Still, you should always take precautions to exercise safely.

To prevent a broken collarbone:

• Wear protective gear when playing contact sports. 
• Build strong, flexible muscles with stretching exercises and strength training. 
• Warm up properly before each workout or sports activity.
• Choose well-fitting, sports-appropriate footwear that helps you keep your balance.
• Eat a well-balanced diet full of veggies and foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to build strong bones.

Top Picks

Recovery after a clavicle fracture: prices for rehabilitation after surgery in Moscow and Moscow region

home

Rehabilitation programs

Rehabilitation after fractures

Rehabilitation after fracture of the collarbone

Indications for the course

How is rehabilitation in our center?

Rehabilitation after a fracture of the clavicle takes place using a set of methods. The main component is physiotherapy exercises. We will select feasible exercises to develop atrophied muscles and increase endurance. Auxiliary methods – therapeutic massage, ergotherapy, physiotherapy, therapeutic nutrition. If necessary, the doctor prescribes a course of medication.

You can contact the rehabilitation center “Prosperity” immediately after the operation. We will restore lost motor functions in the shoulder joint in case of injuries of varying severity – with displacement, with splinters, with dislocations.

The cost of recovery after a fracture of the collarbone is formed on an all-inclusive basis. The price already includes all the necessary assistance, medicines, services of specialists and nurses.

Urgent consultation

What is included in the recovery course after a clavicle fracture?

Rehabilitation package

More

Includes exercise therapy, physiotherapy (electrophoresis, magnetotherapy), ergote

24-hour care

More

Each room has a panic button. The nurse is available 24/7. Will help in hygiene, make dressings and injections.

Medicines and supplies

More

The patient will receive all medicines, dressing materials and hygiene items. You don’t need to take anything with you.

Medical supervision

More

Every day, the doctor examines the patient, assesses the state of health and the dynamics of rehabilitation. If necessary, adjustments are made.

Five meals a day

More

The menu is selected individually. Food contains a lot of calcium and vitamins. Prepared by our chefs in a separate block.

Comfortable rooms with everything you need

More

The rooms have a cozy homely atmosphere. There is everything you need for people with limited movements.

Rehabilitation center “Prosperity” is located in a picturesque pine forest. We are located in the Noginsky district of the Moscow region, 30 km from Moscow. Call the phone on the site or click “Urgent consultation”. Leave your details and our specialists will call you back to answer all your questions. A clavicle fracture rehabilitation program will be developed based on your medical history and medical examination. Sign up for our guest visit to see everything with your own eyes.

What is All Inclusive Rehabilitation

Reviews of the center

Slavnov V.V

I would like to note the work of your center and say a huge thank you to all your employees and instructors. In particular, to note the well-coordinated work of Marina and Andrey, exercise therapy instructors. They are great!

Ergotherapists Nadezhda and Svetlana. Masseuse Gaione is not only an excellent masseuse, but also an excellent psychologist! Very pleased with her. Good support staff, everything is delicious, clean and everyone is kind and smiling!

show full review

Stupina M.T

I (M.T. Stupina) underwent rehabilitation at the center. I came to court according to the wishes of relatives. At the entrance to the territory, the cleanliness and neatness around the buildings, on the way to them, immediately catches the eye.

In the middle of the hall there is an ideal atmosphere of everyday life, cleanliness, friendliness from the staff. The entire staff is like one big family. I want to say a big thank you for the warmth and attention on their part: Julia, Galina, Dinara, V.P.
If I decide, I will only go here.

show full review

Polyakov V.I

Thank you very much for the high level of training of your specialists. I would like to separately express my gratitude and wish for a cash payment to the instructor of exercise therapy Marina and Andrey, Svetlana and Nadezhda. They gave me a fresh breath of hope and inspired me to exercise, disciplined me, adjusted my daily routine.

I think after these classes with them I will be ready to work, even if with restrictions. Thank you very much, guys, friends. All the best to you!

show full review of

Mokrushin Yu. A.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to the entire staff of the rehabilitation center “welfare”, in which my husband Mokrushin Yu.A. We got to the center after a stroke + covid + bacterial pneumonia. The husband was very weak, did not walk at all, his emotional state was depressing. The staff of the center managed to change the emotional mood, increase motivation!

Special thanks to the exercise therapy instructor – Marina, who always encouraged and motivated her husband. Result – the husband walks!!! This is the main thing.

Many thanks to all the staff and maintenance personnel of the 2nd building, 2nd floor!!! Always very attentive!

Massage at the highest level! Thank you Victor!
And of course, Hope! Thank you so much for the ergotherapy classes!!!

Dear doctors! Your professionalism gives people hope for a normal life!
Many thanks to Yuri Semenovich and Valery Nikolaevich. for an individual approach and qualified assistance!

show full review of

Abramov A. B

I am Abramov Alexander was undergoing rehabilitation after suffering a spinal injury, cervical. We would like to thank all the medical and nursing staff. We thank the massage therapist Natalya, the instructor Anton for the qualified help. Anya in occupational therapy. Special thanks to the best doctor Tatyana Ivanovna and Yuri Semenovich. I would like to thank the chefs for a delicious variety of food. Thanks to the nurses, orderlies, who provided us with comfortable accommodation and coziness.

show full review

Chernousov A.A

I, Chernousov Alexander Anatolyevich, want to express my deep gratitude to all the staff of your center! You gave me back my faith that I can be a complete person again. And a stroke is not a death sentence. You helped me in terms of physical and moral recovery.

Special thanks to methodologist Ivanov Andrey. You are great, keep it up! Get people up on their feet. Many thanks to nurse Elena, thanks to you, I felt at home.

Thanks again. All, all health to you, prosperity!

show full review

I want to thank all the employees of the center for their kindness and responsive attitude. Especially to note the doctor Svetlana Alexandrovna, the nurse Lilia Anatolyevna, the nurses, exercise therapy trainers, the massage master Natalia, It should be noted the perfect cleanliness of the premises, varied and plentiful food!

show full review

Chebanova I.A.

Belokurova O.I.

I would like to express my gratitude to the entire staff of the rehabilitation center “Welfare. During the time spent here, I received a full rehabilitation after knee arthroplasty. Special thanks to Polishchuk Yuri Semenovich, the attending physician Skok Svetlana Alexandrovna, nurse Larisa Gennadievna, Kvartalnova Alesa Valerievna, Selina Darya Alexandrovna and all the attendants. I will recommend your center to my friends as soon as possible.

show full review

Sedach T.A.

I want to thank all the staff of the center for their good attitude towards patients. I especially want to note the doctor-neurologist Kayasheva K.S., masseur Borodulina N.O., nurses, nurses, exercise therapy instructors. Perfect cleanliness of the premises. All in all. Thanks a lot!

show full review of

Nazarova I.D.

Many thanks to the staff of the rehabilitation center “Prosperity” for your continuous work and attention to patients. I thank the doctors Yuri Semenovich Polishchuk and Svetlana Aleksandrovna Skok for their warm and attentive attitude. Many thanks to the nannies and nurses for their continuous and tireless care for the patients. All employees good health and well-being.

show full review

Makhina N.G.

Many thanks to the whole team, and especially to the exercise therapy instructor Kamran, masseuse Natalia, ergotherapist Svetlana. Once again I thank everyone for the work and comfort and for the results of my rehabilitation.

show full review of

Mikhailova T.I.

My words of gratitude to those employees with whom I had a chance to communicate: Grunicheva Daria, Skurlatova Galina – ergo instructors. Excellent knowledge of many methods of rehabilitation of the upper extremities. They were very supportive during our sessions. Mitin Anton and Zhdanov Ilya are exercise therapy instructors. Knowledgeable, experienced, hardworking staff. Polishchuk Yury Semenovich, Lastovkin Valery Nikolaevich – doctors with extensive experience in working with severe patients. Thanks to all these people for my rehabilitation. I would especially like to note the work of the animator. A sea of ​​positive, with which she charges all around. Thanks to all the nannies, nurses, barmaids. Their work is very hard and deserves special thanks. I also want to thank Abdulminova L.G. for her attention, commitment, incredible diligence. Thanks again for everything you’ve done for me.

show full review

Solikhova L.V.

I, Solikhova LV, was undergoing treatment in your clinic for rehabilitation. First of all, I want to thank the doctors for the accursed attention and help that they gave me to Valery Nikolaevich, the attending physician, also to Yuri Semenovich. Nurses Alevtina Mikhailovna, Svetlana Petrushina, Irina, Svetlana. Thank you for their attention to us sick. I especially want to emphasize for the good work of the instructor Nikolaeva Marina, Lyubov, and also Kamran. Svetlana, Natalya, Maria excelled especially. They will always help in time, calmly solve our problems, I bow before them for their work, because the patient does not need anything courtesy and understanding. They will never pass by, thank you very much for such an attitude towards me. May God grant them all health and success in their work!

show full review

Svyatova L. I.

Stayed at the center from 07.09 to 03.10.20. I’m leaving with an improvement. I would like to thank the entire staff of the center for the comfort, kindness, responsiveness and professionalism created. Thank you dear colleagues! You were able to soften the severity of the injury in your soul, happiness to you, good luck in everything and professional success!

show full review of

Dolgikh T.A.

Dr. Yuri Semenovich Polishchuk and his team of rehabilitation trainers and exercise therapy instructors thank you for the results! Grateful! Thank you for the confidence that the experts instilled in me, the motivation to further work on the problem.

show full review

Big maternal gratitude to the whole team of “Prosperity” for the son, who was put on his feet. You can immediately see the great professionalism. Thanks everyone!

show full review

Box V.P.

See all reviews

how to determine what happened, what to do, how to recover

Content

• 1 Clavicle fracture: symptoms, first aid, treatment and recovery
  • 1. 1 Clavicle fracture: definition and causes
  • 1.2 Signs of a clavicle fracture

  90 198 1.3 Factors leading to fracture of the collarbone

  • 1.4 Fracture of the collarbone: first aid
    • 1.4.1 How to determine a fracture of the collarbone
    • 1.4.2 What to do?
    • 1.4.3 How to recover
  • 1.5 How to deal with a broken collarbone
  • 1.6 How to relieve the pain of a broken collarbone
  • 1.7 Treatment and rehabilitation for a broken collarbone
    • 1 .7.1 Medical treatment
    • 1.7.2 Rehabilitation
  • 1.8 Treatment of a clavicle fracture
  • 1.9 Recovery time after a clavicle fracture
  • 1.10 Clavicle fracture: complications and prevention
    • 1.10.1 Complications
    • 1.10.2 Prevention
  • 1.11 Complications that can occur after a collarbone fracture
  • 1.12 How to prevent a collarbone fracture
  • 1.13 Related videos:
  • 1. 14 Q&A:
    • • 1.14 .0.1 What is a clavicle fracture and how is it diagnosed?
      • 1.14.0.2 What are the consequences of a clavicle fracture?
      • 1.14.0.3 What should I do if my collarbone is broken?
      • 1.14.0.4 How long does it take to recover from a broken collarbone?
      • 1.14.0.5 How to prevent a collarbone fracture?
      • 1.14.0.6 What if I have chronic pain after a collarbone fracture?

Find out how to spot a broken collarbone, what to do first, and how the injury is treated and rehabilitated. Tips and advice from experienced doctors for a quick recovery.

Fracture of the collarbone is one of the most common injuries that can occur as a result of sports injuries, accidents, falls or other types of injuries. It can be caused by various factors such as lack of coordination or incorrect grip. In this case, various symptoms may occur, such as pain, shock, deformity, limitation of movement, and others.

The presence of a fracture can be determined by a physical examination and additional tests such as X-ray, CT and MRI. At the very beginning, it is necessary to provide first aid and, if necessary, transport the victim to a medical facility. Further, treatment is limited to immobilization, rehabilitation measures and physiotherapy.

In this article, we will consider in more detail the causes of clavicle fractures, diagnostic methods, methods of treatment and rehabilitation, as well as a number of recommendations that will help reduce the risk of re-fracture of the clavicle. Be careful and careful to avoid possible injuries and consequences.

Fracture of the collarbone: definition and causes

A fracture of the collarbone is an injury to the part of the bone that connects the chest to the shoulder, and usually occurs as a result of trauma, such as a fall on the arm or a strong blow to the neck and shoulder.

Fracture of the collarbone can also occur during sports such as football, volleyball or gymnastics. In addition, this type of injury can be caused by a fall on an outstretched arm, a car accident, or other types of injury.

Fracture of the collarbone can lead to bumps and swelling in the shoulder area, pain and inability to move the shoulder, discomfort with some movements, for example, those who are fanatic in sports, may have difficulty lifting a barbell or doing shoulder exercises.

Signs of a clavicle fracture

A clavicle fracture is an injury in which the integrity of the clavicle, the bone plate that connects the scapula to the thoracic skeleton, is broken. A clavicle fracture may present with the following symptoms:

• Pain and swelling. There is swelling in the area of ​​the collarbone and there is severe pain, especially when trying to lift or move the arm.
• Curvature. When the collarbone is fractured, a section of the bone can be displaced and deformed, resulting in a curvature of the neck of the collarbone.
• Driving noise. When bone fragments are displaced, a characteristic sound may occur when moving.
• Mobility restriction. With a fracture of the collarbone, the mobility of the arm is reduced.

Seek medical attention if a fracture of the collarbone is suspected. He will conduct an examination and prescribe additional studies to clarify the diagnosis and determine therapy.

Factors leading to fracture of the collarbone

Injuries are the main factor that can lead to a fracture of the collarbone. This type of injury can result from a fall on the arm or shoulder, from a blow to the collarbone, or from a car accident.

Bone disorders such as osteoporosis and chondrodystrophy can also contribute to collarbone fractures as the bones become more fragile and vulnerable to injury.

Although rare, a clavicle fracture can also be caused by infectious diseases that affect the bones and tissues.

Finally, a clavicle fracture can be caused by constant stress on the bone, such as repetitive shoulder movements, which can lead to loss of bone strength and flexibility.

Clavicle Fracture: First Aid

How to Identify a Clavicle Fracture

A clavicle fracture is an injury that breaks the integrity of the collarbone. This can happen with a fall on an outstretched arm or with a direct blow to the collarbone. Symptoms of such a fracture: severe pain in the collarbone, swelling and bruising, difficulty moving the arm.

What to do?

If you suspect a clavicle fracture, do not attempt to diagnose or treat yourself. Seek immediate medical attention. While you are waiting for medical attention, try the following:

• Limit arm and shoulder movement to avoid further injury.
• Apply ice to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain.
• Take painkillers to relieve pain.

How to recover

The treatment of a clavicle fracture depends on its severity. Conservative treatments are possible, such as immobilization with a cast or bandage, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation. In more severe cases, surgery and rehabilitation procedures may be required. After treatment and rehabilitation, it is important to monitor your health and not exceed physical activity until full recovery.

What to do if your collarbone is broken

A broken collarbone can be the result of a blow, fall or accident. If a fracture is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Your doctor may take x-rays to help diagnose and determine the type of fracture. Depending on the severity of the fracture, surgery or additional fixation devices may be required.

Recovery from a broken collarbone can take weeks or months. During the rehabilitation period, it is recommended to sleep on your back with the use of a pad under the body, engage in physical exercises that strengthen the shoulder girdle, and follow the doctor’s recommendations for caring for the fracture.

• To prevent collarbone fractures:
  • avoid extreme sports;
  • use correct exercise technique;
  • take precautions when traveling outdoors and driving.

How to Relieve the Pain of a Collarbone Fracture

A broken collarbone is a very painful condition that requires urgent medical attention and rehabilitation. However, the first aid stage can relieve pain and reduce patient discomfort.

• Use of ice and heat. Apply ice to injury site for up to 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 72 hours after injury. This will help reduce swelling and relieve pain. After that, heat (such as a heating pad) can be used to improve circulation and reduce pain.
• Analgesics. In the early stages, it is best to use immediate-acting analgesics such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. However, consultation with a doctor before using analgesics is required.
• Posture accounting. Be mindful of the patient’s posture. In the event of a clavicle fracture, it is best to place the hip and hand on the side of the injury in a vertical position, but without additional load.

Remember that these are temporary pain relief and that primary care is needed for a broken collarbone.

Clavicle fracture treatment and rehabilitation

Medical treatment

When a clavicle is fractured, the first step is to properly apply a splint to help keep the bone in the correct position. For this, a plaster or plastic splint is often used. After the splint is placed, the doctor may prescribe medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

In case of severe injuries, surgery may be required. Surgery may be used for open fractures and if the bone is misaligned to the side that needs to be corrected.

Rehabilitation

After treatment of a clavicle fracture, a rehabilitation course is required. Depending on the severity of the injury and the speed of recovery, rehabilitation can be relatively short or quite long.

Occasionally, fractures of the collarbone can be treated with physiotherapy. It is recommended to use radiation therapy, electrotherapy and ultrasound.

In the first days after the treatment of a clavicle fracture, it is important to avoid heavy lifting and other forms of physical activity. However, the doctor must necessarily give individual recommendations and instructions for later life and work.

Clavicle fracture treatment

Clavicle fracture requires immediate treatment by a traumatologist or orthopedist.

Depending on the extent and nature of the injury, treatment can be conservative or surgical. For mild fractures that do not lead to a significant displacement of bone fragments, conservative treatment is used.

This includes wearing splints for 2-4 weeks and medication to relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, physiotherapy may be prescribed.

Surgical treatment is used in severe cases, when there is a significant displacement of bone fragments, or with an open fracture. In such cases, an operation using metal plates, nails or pins may be prescribed.

After treatment, it is important to follow a regimen of restriction of physical activity and the recommendations of an orthopedist or physiotherapist to perform exercises to restore the functionality of the shoulder joint.

• It is important not to forget about the prevention of clavicle fractures. For this, precautions must be taken when playing sports or when performing physical work.
• In case of injury or pain in the shoulder area, seek medical attention. It is not recommended to self-treat or neglect injuries that can lead to serious consequences.
• Clavicle fracture requires serious and qualified treatment. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor on time and follow all recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.

Recovery time after a collarbone fracture

Recovery time after a collarbone fracture depends on many factors. One of the most important is the type and severity of damage. It usually takes 6-8 weeks for the collarbone to heal.

The healing process can be accelerated through physical exercises, in which the collarbone will not be subjected to mechanical stress. It is important to know that any physical activity immediately after a fracture can lead to a deterioration in the condition, so before you start exercising, you need to give the collarbone time to heal.

Usually, if the fracture occurred without complications, the recovery period does not exceed three months. However, each case is unique, so for any injury, it is important to turn to professionals to get qualified help and determine how to quickly return to a normal lifestyle.

Clavicle fracture: complications and prevention

Complications

A clavicle fracture can lead to various complications, especially if it is not detected and treated in a timely manner. Some of them can be quite serious:

• Compression of the shoulder nerve. Bone fragments can compress the brachial nerve, causing numbness and weakness in the arm, as well as pain in the neck and back. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
• Lung injury. Fracture of the collarbone, especially if accompanied by a strong blow or fall, may result in damage to the lung. This can lead to hemorrhage and chronic pain.
• Rib deformation. In some cases, fragments of the clavicle may press on the ribs, causing them to deform. This can lead to chest pain and breathing problems.

Prevention

To prevent or minimize the risk of a collarbone fracture, follow these guidelines:

1. Avoid falls and injury. Wear suitable footwear, avoid slippery surfaces and do not attempt anything dangerous without proper protection.
2. Strengthen your body. A variety of muscle and joint strengthening exercises can help reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall or impact.
3. Obey the rules of the road. If you ride a bicycle or motorcycle, wear a safety helmet and avoid dangerous maneuvers.

It is also important to see a doctor if you have a health problem that could lead to a broken collarbone, such as osteoporosis or other bone conditions.

Complications that may occur after a clavicle fracture

Incorrectly healed fracture: if the fracture is not properly healed, the clavicle may not heal properly. This can lead to bone deformity and limit the mobility of the shoulder.

Sensorineural disorders: When the collarbone is broken, some of the nerves that run through the arm can be damaged. This can lead to numbness or soreness in the hand, as well as decreased sensation.

Infections: An infection may occur after a collarbone fracture. This can happen if the skin has been damaged or the vessels have been broken. Infection can lead to purulent processes and other complications.

Stiff shoulder: Shoulder movement may be restricted after a collarbone fracture. This may be due to pain, swelling, or nerve damage.

Deformity of the shoulder girdle: fracture of the clavicle can lead to deformity of the shoulder girdle. This can lead to reduced arm strength and mobility, as well as poor posture.

How to prevent a broken collarbone

Keep your bones healthy. Talk to your doctor about what kind of diet and exercise you need to follow in order to keep your bones in good condition. Try adding calcium-rich foods to your diet, such as milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese, leafy greens, broccoli, and almonds.

Avoid risky sports. If you are involved in sports that can cause shoulder girdle injuries, such as boxing, wrestling, football, you should pay special attention to the correct exercise technique and the use of anti-injury equipment.

Avoid falls and injury. When you are at height, make sure you are securely secured with the appropriate equipment. Avoid situations that could lead to injury, such as walking on slippery surfaces or walking down stairs in the wrong shoes.

Seek medical attention at the first sign of pain. Many fractures of the clavicle can be healed if you see a doctor in time. If you experience pain in your shoulder girdle or notice symptoms of a fracture such as swelling, bruising, or restricted movement, contact your doctor immediately for appropriate treatment.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is a clavicle fracture and how is it diagnosed?

A clavicle fracture is an injury to the collarbone, the bone that connects the shoulder girdle to the sternum. You can identify a fracture by severe pain in the collarbone, swelling, bruising, inability to move the arm, and weakness in the upper body.

What are the consequences of a clavicle fracture?

The effects can range from infections and lung damage to circulation problems and chronic pain at the site of a malignant fracture. For a full recovery, it is necessary to carry out rehabilitation and control the condition of the collarbone.

What to do if the collarbone is broken?

If a fracture is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. As a rule, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, as well as fixatives, which will help maintain the integrity of the collarbone and reduce pain. If the fracture is severe, surgery may be required.

How long does it take to recover from a collarbone fracture?

Recovery time depends on the degree of damage to the collarbone. On average, the rehabilitation process takes from several weeks to several months.