A clavicle fracture, or collarbone fracture, is a common injury that occurs when the clavicle (the bone connecting the arm to the body) breaks, typically from a fall, direct blow, or high-impact activity. In cases where the fracture is severe, displaced, or does not heal properly with conservative treatment, surgery may be required to realign and stabilise the bone.

This guide will walk you through the details of clavicle fracture surgery, the recovery process, rehabilitation strategies, and how Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can help with both pre-habilitation (before surgery) and post-operative rehabilitation (after surgery) to ensure a successful recovery.

Clavicle Fracture Surgery: Procedure, Recovery, and Rehabilitation

What is Clavicle Fracture Surgery?

Clavicle fracture surgery is performed to repair a broken clavicle, especially when the fracture is displaced, the bone ends are misaligned, or the fracture is complex. The surgery typically involves realigning the bones and securing them with plates, screws, or rods to facilitate proper healing.

Indications for Clavicle Fracture Surgery

• Displaced fracture: When the bone fragments are no longer aligned, requiring surgical intervention to bring them back into proper position.

• Open fractures: When the bone breaks through the skin, surgery is needed to prevent infection and properly realign the bone.

• Fractures involving the joint: If the fracture affects the AC joint (where the collarbone meets the shoulder), surgery may be required to stabilize the joint.

• Non-union or delayed healing: If the fracture is not healing as expected or if the healing process is delayed, surgical intervention may be necessary.

The Clavicle Fracture Surgery Procedure

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation

• Evaluation: A thorough evaluation is conducted, including X-rays and CT scans, to determine the location and severity of the fracture. This helps the surgeon plan the appropriate surgical approach.

• Pre-Habilitation (Pre-Surgery Rehab): Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can help you prepare for surgery by strengthening the muscles around the shoulder and upper body. Strengthening the surrounding muscles can support the healing process and speed up recovery after surgery.

2. Surgical Procedure

• Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, though regional anesthesia may also be used.

• Incision: A small incision is made over the fracture site. For some fractures, a larger incision may be needed to access the bones directly.

• Bone Realignment: The surgeon will carefully reposition the broken ends of the clavicle to their correct alignment. In many cases, plates, screws, or rods are used to secure the bone fragments in place and ensure proper healing.

• Duration: The surgery usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the fracture and the surgical approach used.

3. Post-Surgical Care

• Pain Management: After surgery, pain relief will be managed with medications, ice packs, and possibly nerve blocks.

• Sling: The arm will typically be placed in a sling for 4–6 weeks to limit shoulder movement and allow the bone to heal in the proper position.

Recovery Timeline After Clavicle Fracture Surgery

Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Days 1–7)

• Rest and Recovery: Rest is critical to allow the bone to begin healing. Pain and swelling are managed with ice, medication, and elevation.

• Sling Use: The sling is used to immobilize the arm for 4–6 weeks, depending on the fracture’s severity and surgeon's advice.

• Follow-up Appointments: Follow-up visits will be scheduled to assess healing and ensure that the fracture is in the correct position.

Short-Term Recovery (Weeks 2–6)

• Gentle Movements: After the initial healing period, gentle range of motion exercises are introduced to avoid stiffness and promote flexibility.

• Physical Therapy: At this stage, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can help you begin gentle exercises to increase range of motion and reduce stiffness, focusing on the shoulder, elbow, and wrist.

• Sling Discontinuation: The sling is typically discontinued after 4–6 weeks, but your physiotherapist may advise wearing it for additional support during certain activities.

Intermediate Recovery (Months 2–3)

• Strengthening Exercises: After the first 6 weeks, strengthening exercises for the shoulder, chest, and upper arm muscles are introduced. These exercises help build strength around the clavicle and shoulder joint to improve function.

• Progressive Mobilization: As healing progresses, more complex movements and strengthening exercises are included to promote functional recovery.

Long-Term Recovery (Months 3–6)

• Functional Rehabilitation: By 3–6 months, most patients can return to daily activities, with gradual return to more strenuous activities and sports.

• Return to Activity: Full return to sports or heavy physical activity may take up to 6–9 months, depending on the healing progress and the demands of the activity.

Rehabilitation After Clavicle Fracture Surgery

Phase 1: Early Rehabilitation (Weeks 1–6)

• Focus: Healing the fracture, controlling pain and swelling, and preventing stiffness.

• Exercises:

  • Passive range of motion (PROM): Gentle exercises performed by a physiotherapist to improve shoulder flexibility without stressing the healing fracture.

  • Pendulum exercises: Simple arm movements that help keep the shoulder joint flexible.

  • Pain Management: Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medication to manage discomfort and reduce swelling.

Phase 2: Intermediate Rehabilitation (Weeks 6–12)

• Focus: Restoring strength, improving shoulder range of motion, and preparing for functional activities.

• Exercises:

  • Active range of motion (AROM): Exercises that involve moving the shoulder with assistance, promoting full mobility.

  • Strengthening: Starting light resistance exercises, focusing on the shoulder and scapular muscles.

  • Functional Training: Beginning exercises that simulate activities you perform in daily life, such as lifting, carrying, and reaching.

Phase 3: Advanced Rehabilitation (Months 3–6)

• Focus: Regaining full strength, stability, and functional use of the arm.

• Exercises:

  • Strength Training: Advanced strengthening exercises targeting the shoulder, chest, and back muscles.

  • Proprioception and Coordination: Exercises that improve shoulder stability and awareness.

  • Sports-Specific Rehabilitation: For athletes, exercises that mimic sport-specific motions are introduced to prepare for return to sport.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Pre-Habilitation (Before Surgery)

• Muscle Strengthening: Strengthening the upper body muscles, including the shoulder, chest, and back, to support the healing process after surgery.

• Education: Providing information on what to expect during and after surgery, helping you mentally and physically prepare for the recovery process.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

• Pain and Swelling Management: Our physiotherapists use manual therapy, ice, ultrasound, and other modalities to reduce pain and swelling in the initial post-operative period.

• Gradual Mobility and Strengthening: We guide you through progressively challenging exercises to improve mobility, strength, and function in your shoulder and arm.

• Functional Rehabilitation: We focus on regaining full function so you can return to work, daily activities, and sports safely and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to recover from clavicle fracture surgery?

Full recovery generally takes 3–6 months. You will likely be able to resume daily activities after 6–8 weeks, but return to full sports or manual labor may take up to 6–9 months.

2. Will I have any permanent limitations after clavicle fracture surgery?

Most patients experience full recovery with proper rehabilitation, but mild stiffness or occasional discomfort may persist. Rarely, some patients may have permanent weakness or limitations depending on the severity of the fracture and complications during recovery.

3. How soon can I return to work after clavicle fracture surgery?

For desk jobs, you can typically return to work within 2–4 weeks. If your job involves heavy lifting or overhead movements, it may take 3–6 months before you're cleared to return.

4. Will I need to wear a sling after surgery?

Yes, you will likely need to wear a sling for 4–6 weeks to immobilize the arm and support the healing process. The sling may be gradually discontinued as you begin rehabilitation exercises.

5. When can I return to sports after clavicle fracture surgery?

Most people can return to light activity after 2–3 months, but full sports participation may take 6–9 months, depending on the type of sport and recovery progress.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health. We are here to support you through every step of your recovery process.

Reputable Australian Resources

1. Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA)

   • Provides resources on fractures, surgical options, and rehabilitation.

   • https://www.aoa.org.au/

2. Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

   • Offers information on orthopaedic surgery and post-operative care.

   • https://www.surgeons.org/

3. Physiotherapy Board of Australia

   • Provides guidelines for physiotherapists on rehabilitation protocols for clavicle fractures.

   • https://www.physiotherapyboard.gov.au/

4. Better Health Channel (Victoria)

   • Offers comprehensive information on clavicle fractures, including recovery and rehabilitation.

   • https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/