A broken collarbone is a very common injury, especially for people who play sports. Also referred to as a fractured clavicle, this type of injury involves the shoulder bone that connects the arm to the rest of the body.
Fractured collarbones that pierce through the skin require surgical intervention, but in most cases, the break can heal by keeping the bone immobilized, usually with a sling. Below, we are going to discuss broken collarbone recovery and how you can manage the symptoms of this injury.
#1 Follow Medical Advice
Always adhere to your orthopedic surgeon’s recommendations. Whether it’s taking prescribed medications or attending physical therapy sessions, stick to your doctor’s advice to have a successful recovery.
#2 Manage Pain with Medication
Pain management is a key aspect of broken collarbone recovery. It is normal to feel pain and discomfort after an injury, however, you do not have to suffer through it. Your orthopedic doctor will prescribe medication to relieve pain. In most cases, it can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs.
#3 Use Ice Therapy
Within 72 hours of an injury, or in the initial stages of recovery, ice packs can be applied to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours. As your healing progresses, you can transition to heat therapy using warm compresses to relax muscles and improve blood circulation. However, make sure to check first with your doctor before starting heat therapy.
#4 Elevate the Affected Arm
Elevating the affected arm can minimize swelling and promote blood circulation. Prop your arm up on pillows while resting or sleeping to help reduce discomfort and accelerate broken collarbone recovery.
#5 Maintain Good Posture
Pay attention to your posture to prevent additional strain on the collarbone and your arm. Sit and stand up straight to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the injured area. Use supportive pillows or cushions to maintain a comfortable and aligned posture.
#6 Engage in Gentle Range of Motion Exercises
As directed by your orthopedic doctor or physical therapist, perform gentle range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness and promote flexibility of the shoulder and arm. However, exercises should only be started after the pain has subsided, after which, your comfort levels could increase as you progress through your exercise program.
In order not to feel pain, avoid activities that cause pain, and gradually increase the intensity of exercises as your collarbone heals. Do not resume overhead motions, as this can cause pain.
#7 Wear Supportive Devices
In most cases, collarbone injuries require immobilization of the arm with the use of a sling. This supportive device not only keeps the arm in place and helps the bone heal properly, it also contributes to symptom-relief. Adults typically wear a sling anywhere from six to eight weeks following a collarbone fracture.
#8 Mind Your Diet
Your diet can affect your general feeling and level of comfort while in recovery from a collarbone injury. Ensure you are getting enough nutrients and vitamins to support healing of the broken bone and to minimize inflammation levels in the body. Choose foods that you know are good for you, such as fruits and vegetables and lean protein.
#9 Reduce Stress Levels
Stress can prevent you from having a smooth recovery and cause inflammation in the body. Your mental health can affect your recovery and vice versa. Commit yourself to a state of relaxation while in recovery from collarbone injury and be mindful of the media you consume.
#10 Communicate with Your Healthcare Team
Open communication with your healthcare team is vital throughout the recovery process. If you experience worsening pain or continued pain, which are signs of complications, you should consult with your orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible.
Broken Collarbone Treatment in San Antonio, TX
The orthopedic surgeons at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio are experienced in the treatment of broken collarbones. We see this injury a lot with athletes and weekend warriors, and our advanced training in sports medicine enables us to provide you with specialized care you deserve. Our sports medicine doctors not only help you heal from this injury, but we also ensure you have everything you need to help decrease your risk of a broken collarbone.
To schedule an appointment with one of our sports medicine doctors, call our office today at (210) 692-7400 or use our online form to schedule your visit. Our friendly staff at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine looks forward to serving your orthopedic needs!
