What is a Clavicle Fracture?
Clavicle fractures or broken collarbones are among the most common broken bone injuries that occur. The clavicle bone is situated between the ribcage (sternum) and the shoulder blade (scapula). It is the bone that attaches the arm to the body. A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone, one of the main bones in the shoulder. Type II distal clavicle fractures are common – accounting for about 5 percent of all adolescents and adult fractures.
What are the Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures?
A clavicle fracture can be very painful. Other signs and symptoms of a fracture may include:
- Flopping of the shoulder downward and forward.
- Failure to lift the arm because of pain.
- A crushing sensation when you try to raise the arm.
- Numbness and tingling.
- Swelling and bruising around the shoulder.
- A malformation over the break.
- Contusing, soreness, or tenderness over the collarbone.
What are the Different Treatments of Clavicle Fracture?
For the treatment of a hairline or stable clavicle fracture, you may not need surgery, for larger and compound fractures, your orthopedic specialist will recommend surgery.
Different treatment modalities include:
- Rest.
- Arm Support.
- Pain medications.
- Motion exercises.
- Physical Therapy.
- Rehabilitation.
- Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgery, done by plate fixation and pins or screws.
After an evaluation, our orthopedic surgeons will provide the best treatment that suits you and gets you towards a speedy road to recovery.
Schedule an online consultation with our orthopedic specialist and avail effective, reliable, and best orthopedic treatments in NJ.
FAQ’S
Why Is the Clavicle Commonly Fractured?
- The clavicle is commonly fractured as a result of frequent exposure to force.
- Due to its location, and being the only horizontal bone, the clavicle is prone to fractures. Most fractures happen as a result of falling on an outstretched arm.
How Long Does It Take for a Clavicle Fracture to Heal?
- It takes almost a period of six to eight weeks to recover from a clavicle fracture.
- It is one of the common injuries which may occur as a result of a sudden blow or slip-and-fall accident.
Can You Drive With a Broken Collarbone?
- A fractured clavicle may take a time period of twelve to sixteen weeks to get completely healed.
- You may feel pain for a few weeks around the affected area.
- It is recommended not to drive if it hurts the affected area.
- Your specialist may recommend you wear a sling so as to reduce the level of mobility and pain.
Can You Move Your Arm With a Broken Collarbone?
- Sometimes it is very hard to move your arm with a broken collarbone.
- Your specialist may ask you to wear a sling so as to reduce the mobility of the bones around the affected area.
