A broken collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury seen in sports and everyday accidents. It can result from a fall, a direct hit during contact sports, or even a vehicle collision.
Regardless of the cause, a broken collarbone can lead to significant discomfort and disruption to your daily life.
If you are searching for the best options for broken collarbone treatment, this blog will clarify your choices and help you find expert care close to home.
What is a Broken Collarbone?
The collarbone, or clavicle, is the long, slender bone that connects your shoulder to your chest. It has a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder and enabling arm movement. A broken collarbone usually occurs when there is a significant impact, such as falling onto an outstretched hand or shoulder.
Symptoms of a broken collarbone include:
- Severe pain in the shoulder area
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness near the collarbone
- Difficulty moving the arm
- A noticeable bump or deformity at the fracture site
If you suspect a broken collarbone, it is essential to see a medical professional immediately.
Diagnosis of a Broken Collarbone
When you visit an orthopedic surgeon, the doctor will perform a physical examination to assess the severity of your injury. Imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans help confirm the location and extent of a fracture.
You can expect this kind of thorough evaluation at trusted facilities such as the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio, TX.
Best Broken Collarbone Treatments
Treatment for a broken collarbone depends on the severity of the fracture. While some cases heal with conservative methods, others may require surgery.
Below, we explore the most effective broken collarbone treatment options recommended by many orthopedists.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For less severe fractures, non-surgical treatments are often sufficient. These include:
Immobilization
To ensure proper healing of a broken clavicle (collarbone), a sling or figure-eight brace is typically used to keep the bone stable and in the correct position. This helps prevent further movement or misalignment during the recovery process.
Immobilization may be required for several weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) are commonly recommended to reduce pain and inflammation. For more severe cases, an ortho doctor may prescribe stronger medications to provide adequate relief during the early stages of recovery.
Physical Therapy
After the clavicle has begun to heal and the bone shows signs of consolidation, physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery. Specific exercises are introduced to gradually restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion, helping patients regain full functionality and prevent long-term stiffness or weakness.
Surgical Treatment
For complex or severely displaced fractures, surgery might be required. Surgical treatment typically involves:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
This surgical procedure involves making an incision to access and realign the fractured bone. Orthopedic surgeons then use medical hardware such as plates, screws, or pins to stabilize the bone and ensure proper alignment during the healing process.
This method is commonly used for complex or unstable fractures.
Rehabilitation
After the surgery, patients typically undergo a tailored rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder. The duration and intensity of rehab depend on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s recovery progress.
For the best results, consider consulting an orthopedic surgeon in San Antonio, TX, who specializes in trauma and fractures.
Why Choose Early Intervention?
Prompt medical attention is essential for optimal recovery. If left untreated, a broken collarbone can lead to complications, such as:
- Improper healing or bone misalignment
- Chronic pain or stiffness in the shoulder
- Weakness or reduced shoulder function
Seeking care from a bone doctor or a general orthopedics specialist in San Antonio, TX, ensures you receive timely and effective treatment.
Broken Collarbone Treatment in San Antonio, TX
If you are dealing with a broken collarbone or any other orthopedic concern, do not delay treatment. Delays in treating a broken collarbone can increase the risk of complications, such as malunion, chronic pain, and limited mobility.
If you or a loved one has sustained a collarbone fracture, trust our highly skilled providers at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine for superior orthopedic care. Our team of board-certified sports medicine doctors and orthopedic doctors specializes in treating fractures, sports injuries, and more.
Contact us today at (210) 692-7400 or request an appointment with our ortho doctors using our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
Citation:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-collarbone/symptoms-causes/syc-20370311
