clavicle fracture
(Diseases)
In this page, you will find everything you need to know about clavicle fractures.
What is a clavicle fracture?
A clavicle fracture is a break in the clavicle bone, one of the main bones of the shoulder. This type of fracture is relatively common, accounting for about 5% of all fractures in adults.
- What are the symptoms of a clavicle fracture?
- A clavicle fracture can be very painful and may make moving the arm difficult. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Shoulder drooping downward and forward.
- Inability to lift the arm due to pain.
- Pain when trying to lift the arm.
A deformity or bump over the broken area.
Bruising, swelling, or tenderness over the clavicle.
What causes a clavicle fracture?
Clavicle fractures often occur due to a direct blow to the shoulder. They can also result from falling onto an outstretched arm. In some cases, a clavicle fracture may occur in a newborn during passage through the birth canal.
- How is aclavicle fracture diagnosed?
The doctor will take your medical history and may order additional procedures as needed:
- Physical examination: The doctor examines the shoulder carefully and checks for deformities or bumps at the fracture site. Gentle pressure may cause painAlthough it is rare for the bone to pierce the skin,it may penetrate the skin. The physician will perform tests to ensure that no nerves or blood vessels are damaged when the fracture occurs.. Tests ensure no nerves or blood vessels are damaged.
X-rays:The physician will request an X-ray to visualize the bone. X-rays help determine the location and severity of the fracture. Sometimes, X-rays of the entire shoulder are requested to check for additional injuries.
How is a clavicle fracture treated?
- Treatment depends on the severity and type of fracture:
1. Non-surgical treatment
If the broken ends of the bone are not significantly displaced, surgery may not be needed. Many clavicle fractures can heal without surgical intervention. Non-surgical treatment may include:
- Arm sling: Provides immediate comfort and keeps the arm and shoulder in place while healing.
- Pain medications: Help relieve discomfort during healing.
- Physical therapy: Although some pain is expected, it maintains arm movement and prevents stiffness. Exercise usually starts with gentle elbow movement, followed by light shoulder exercises, Although some pain is expected, it is maintained.
After a clavicle fracture, it is common to experience some loss of shoulder and arm strength. As the bone begins to heal, pain will decrease, and your doctor may start you on gentle shoulder exercises. These exercises help prevent stiffness and weakness. More intensive exercises are gradually introduced as the fracture fully heals.
- 22. Surgical treatment
If the fractured bone fragments are significantly displaced, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgical treatment typically involves realigning the broken bone pieces and securing them to prevent movement during healing, which can help restore shoulder strength.
Surgery is performed through internal fixation of the clavicle. During the procedure, the bone fragments are first repositioned to their normal alignment, then fixed in place using specialized metal devices. Common internal fixation methods include metal plates and screws. Once the fragments are properly aligned, they are secured with screws and plates attached to the outer surface of the bone.
After surgery, you may notice a small area of numbness beneath the incision. This numbness usually decreases over time. Because the clavicle lies just under the skin, you may be able to feel the metal plate through your skin.
Metal plates and screws are not routinely removed after the bone has healed unless they cause discomfort. Some patients may find that seat belts or backpacks irritate the clavicle area.
How to prevent clavicle fractures?
Because clavicle fractures usually occur suddenly and without warning, prevention is often difficult; however, certain measures can help reduce the risk:
- During participation in contact sports, ensure the use of all recommended protective equipment and acquire the appropriate techniques for your sport.
- Maintaining strong bones through a balanced diet ensuring adequate intake of vegetables, calcium-rich foods, and vitamin D.
- Performing resistance and stretching exercises to strengthen muscles that support bones.and reduce the likelihood of severe falls. Appropriate warm-up routines, including stretching exercises, can enhance muscular performance during physical activity.
- Wearing supportive, well-fitted athletic shoes.
What are the complications of a clavicle fracture?
- In some cases, a clavicle fracture may shift out of place before it heals. Therefore, it is important to follow up with the physician as scheduled to ensure the bone remains properly aligned. If the fracture does not heal (a condition known as nonunion), the patient may experience mild pain with a good range of motion, and no further treatment may be required. In other cases, nonunion can result in significant pain and may necessitate surgical repair.
- If the fracture fragments shift out of position and the bones heal in this misaligned state, the condition is referred to as malunion. Surgical treatment for this is very rare and is determined by the degree of displacement and the impact on arm function.
- A large bump may develop over the fracture site as healing occurs. This bump typically becomes smaller over time, although a small permanent prominence often remains.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice symptoms of a clavicle fracture or experience pain severe enough to prevent normal use of your arm, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to recover from a clavicle fracture?
Recovery times from a clavicle fracture can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s age. Children, whose bones are still growing, tend to heal faster than adults. On average, healing may take approximately:
- Adults: 8–12 weeks.
- Teenagers: 6–8 weeks.
- Children under 8: 3–6 weeks.
- Infants: ~2 weeks.
When can I return to sports?
You can return when the clavicle has fully healed and there is no pain with movement. Contact sports may require additional time, and your doctor will confirm with X-rays and a physical examination before clearance for return to sports.
