What is a Clavicle Fracture?

Causes of Clavicle Fractures

Common causes of a clavicle fracture include:

1. Falls:

   • Falling directly onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm is a primary cause. This is common in sports like cycling, football, and skiing.

2. Direct Impact:

   • A direct blow to the clavicle from a car accident, sports injury, or fall can cause the bone to break.

3. Overuse:

   • Though less common, repetitive stress on the clavicle due to certain motions or activities can contribute to fractures over time.

4. Trauma:

   • Trauma, such as a high-impact collision or violent accident, can lead to a fracture.

Symptoms of a Clavicle Fracture

A clavicle fracture may result in various symptoms, including:

1. Pain:

   • A sharp pain is usually felt at the site of the fracture, particularly when moving the arm or shoulder. The pain may worsen with any attempt to lift the arm.

2. Swelling and Bruising:

   • Swelling and bruising may appear around the collarbone. The bruising can spread to the surrounding areas, such as the chest or shoulder.

3. Deformity:

   • The area may appear deformed or misaligned, with the bone sticking out at an odd angle, especially in more severe fractures.

4. Limited Range of Motion:

   • Movement of the arm may be limited, and lifting the arm can be very painful or difficult. There may also be a popping or grinding sensation during shoulder movement.

5. Numbness or Tingling:

   • In some cases, if nerves are irritated or compressed, the individual may experience numbness or tingling in the arm or hand.

Diagnosing Clavicle Fractures

A clavicle fracture is typically diagnosed through:

1. Physical Examination:

   • A healthcare provider will assess the area for signs of pain, swelling, deformity, and bruising. They may also test the range of motion of the shoulder.

2. X-rays:

   • X-rays are essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the extent of the fracture (whether it is displaced, comminuted, or non-displaced). They help guide treatment decisions.

3. CT Scan or MRI:

   • In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be used to assess complex fractures or to rule out damage to surrounding structures such as nerves or blood vessels.

Treatment for Clavicle Fractures

Treatment for a clavicle fracture depends on the severity and type of fracture, and whether the fracture is displaced (the bone ends are out of alignment). The two main approaches to treatment are non-surgical and surgical.

Non-Surgical Treatment

1. Rest and Ice:

   • Resting the shoulder and applying ice packs can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every few hours for the first 48 hours after the injury.

2. Pain Relief:

   • Over-the-counter NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

3. Immobilization:

   • A sling or figure-of-eight bandage is typically used to support and immobilize the shoulder while the bone heals. This helps to relieve pain and prevents unnecessary movement.

4. Physical Therapy:

   • Once the initial healing has occurred, physical therapy is important to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. This may begin with gentle stretches and gradually progress to strengthening exercises.

5. Follow-up Care:

   • Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process, especially to ensure that the fracture is healing correctly and that the bones remain properly aligned.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended for displaced fractures, fractures with significant deformity, or fractures that do not heal with conservative treatment. Surgical options include:

1. Internal Fixation:

   • Metal plates, screws, or pins may be used to stabilize the clavicle during the healing process. This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the hardware remains in place permanently unless complications arise.

2. Clavicle Reduction Surgery:

   • In more complex fractures, where the bone is shattered or severely misaligned, clavicle reduction surgerymay be performed. This procedure involves realigning the bone fragments and stabilizing them with surgical hardware.

3. Rehabilitation:

   • After surgery, a structured rehabilitation program involving physical therapy is crucial to regain full function and prevent stiffness or weakness in the shoulder joint.

Recovery and Prognosis

The recovery time for a clavicle fracture depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment method:

• Non-Surgical Recovery: Most clavicle fractures that are non-displaced or minimally displaced heal with rest and immobilization in about 6 to 8 weeks.

• Surgical Recovery: Recovery from surgery may take 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of fracture and surgical procedure performed. The patient will likely need to undergo physical therapy to regain full range of motion and strength.

Long-Term Outlook

• Full Recovery: The vast majority of individuals recover fully from a clavicle fracture with appropriate treatment. However, some may experience long-term stiffness or discomfort, particularly if the fracture was severe or displaced.

• Complications: While rare, complications such as infection, nerve damage, or non-union (failure of the bone to heal) can occur, particularly with surgical intervention.

Prevention of Clavicle Fractures

While it may not always be possible to prevent clavicle fractures, especially those caused by accidents or falls, the following strategies can help reduce the risk:

1. Strengthening Exercises:

   • Regular strengthening exercises for the shoulder muscles can help protect the clavicle and reduce the risk of injury, especially during high-impact activities.

2. Protective Gear:

   • When engaging in sports or activities where falls are common (such as cycling, skiing, or skateboarding), wearing protective gear like shoulder pads or elbow pads can help absorb some of the impact and protect the clavicle.

3. Fall Prevention:

   • Improving balance, flexibility, and coordination can reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults. Ensuring safe environments by clearing tripping hazards can also help.

4. Proper Posture:

   • Maintaining proper posture when lifting or engaging in physical activities can reduce strain on the shoulder and minimize the risk of injury.

Expert Care at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our expert physiotherapists specialize in the treatment of clavicle fractures. Whether you're recovering from a non-surgical fracture or have undergone surgery, we offer comprehensive care to help you regain full function and strength. If you're dealing with shoulder pain or suspect a clavicle fracture, contact us for an assessment and personalized rehabilitation plan.