Collarbone fractures are common injuries which can affect people of all ages, particularly children and those actively involved in sports. Let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for broken collarbones so you can understand and manage this problem well as you recover.
How Does a Collarbone Fracture Happen?
Collarbone fractures–also called clavicle fractures–account for five to 10 percent of bone breaks annually in the United States. These orthopedic injuries often occur due to falls, sports collisions, motor vehicle accidents or direct blows to the shoulder.
Children are particularly prone to clavicle fractures because of their active lifestyles. Interestingly, even infants can experience broken collarbones during the birth process.
Most collarbone fractures happen at the mid-portion of the bone between the breastbone (sternum) and shoulder blade (scapula). While many are simple fractures with bone ends remaining aligned, other breaks can be displaced. These collarbone fractures need more intensive treatment to make the bone heal well and the shoulder and arm work well afterwards.
What Are the Signs That You Have Broken Your Collarbone?
Recognizing the symptoms of a broken collarbone is very important so you get the timely and effective treatment you need. Key indicators of a clavicle break are:
- Pain and swelling in the shoulder and arm area
- Inability to lift the affected arm
- Bruising around the area which was impacted
- A noticeable bump over the fracture site
- Grinding noises or sensations starting at the time of injury
- Sagging of the affected arm
If you observe these symptoms, seek medical evaluation from an orthopedic doctor near you.
Should I See an Orthopedic Doctor for a Broken Collarbone?
Prompt consultation with an orthopedic doctor is essential if you suspect a broken collarbone. An orthopedic specialist will provide a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging assessments, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the fracture.
Early intervention with a bone doctor can improve and hasten the healing process. Plus, it will reduce the risk of complications and ensure a quicker return to your normal activities at home and at work.
How Will My Bone Doctor Treat My Collarbone?
Treatment for a broken collarbone typically involves a combination of immobilization, pain management and rehabilitation. The specific approach depends on the nature and severity of the fracture.
Also, your orthopedic specialist will consider your age, activity level, overall health and other factors to arrive at a care plan best suited for your needs and desired treatment outcomes. Treatments for a broken collarbone can include:
- Immobilization with a sling worn for three to four weeks in children and six to eight weeks in adults.
- Oral medications include over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve discomfort and swelling.
- Some weeks to months of physical therapy, which reduce swelling and maintain muscle mass, flexibility, and strength in the arm and shoulder
- Surgical intervention for severe or displaced fractures.
For example, an orthopedic surgeon may perform an internal fixation procedure using plates and screws to realign and stabilize the bone. This kind of surgery properly aligns the bone ends so that the collarbone heals well and quickly as possible.
Recovery Tips after a Collarbone Fracture
Most patients with broken collarbones heal well and return to their normal activities after treatment. However, be sure to follow your orthopedic doctor’s advice for managing the fracture site while it heals. This way, you can optimize your chances of a full recovery.
Tips for successful healing of a broken collarbone include:
- Keeping the injured area immobile by wearing the sling as directed, even if symptoms seem to improve right away.
- Following through physical therapy exercises help restore muscle strength, range of motion (ROM), and flexibility in your arm and shoulder.
- Take pain medications as prescribed.
Also, it is really important to keep follow-up appointments with the bone doctor. He will ensure that your fracture is healing correctly so that you avoid any residual stiffness or limited ability to use your arm.
Expert Collarbone Care from Your Orthopedic Surgeon in San Antonio, TX
If you suspect a broken collarbone, don’t delay in seeking professional evaluation and care. At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio, TX, our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal issues.
Our commitment is to provide compassionate and accurate orthopedic care tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. If you think you have a broken collarbone, contact us for an immediate examination and imaging assessment. Early intervention can lead to a smoother recovery and better outcomes.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at (210) 692-7400 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving your musculoskeletal needs with expertise and compassion.
