Have you ever wondered about the importance of your collarbone, also known as the clavicle? This slender bone plays an important role in connecting your arm to the rest of your body. But what happens when this vital bone breaks?
Understanding broken collarbones or clavicular fractures is essential for anyone, whether you are an athlete, an active individual, or simply curious about this common injury. In this article, we will dive into the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of broken collarbones.
Common Causes of Broken Collarbones
Broken collarbones, or clavicular fractures, can occur in various situations, most commonly due to the direct impact on the shoulder. This impact can be a result of different activities or accidents:
Accidents
Car accidents are a leading cause of broken collarbones. The sudden and forceful impact can easily fracture this bone. Even minor vehicle collisions can result in a broken collarbone if the shoulder area is hit directly.
Sports Injuries
Athletes, especially those who play contact sports such as football, rugby, and hockey, are at a higher risk. Collarbones can break during collisions with other players or falls onto the playing field.
Additionally, sports that involve the risk of falling from a height, such as gymnastics or skiing, also contribute to a significant number of clavicular fractures.
Falls
A fall, especially on an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder, can cause a broken collarbone. This is common in all age groups.
For instance, those at risk of this type of injury include:
- Children climbing on playground equipment
- Elderly individuals slipping at home
Direct Blow to the Shoulder
Any direct blow to the shoulder, such as being struck by a heavy object, can lead to a fracture in the collarbone.
Understanding these causes is important for both preventing and accurately diagnosing a broken collarbone.
Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone
The symptoms of a broken collarbone are usually quite apparent and can include:
- Sharp Pain: This is the most immediate and noticeable symptom. The pain is typically localized around the collarbone area and can intensify with arm movement.
- Swelling and Bruising: The affected area often swells, and bruising can appear, indicating underlying tissue damage.
- Deformity or Bump: In some cases, particularly where the bone has broken into separate pieces, a visible deformity or bump may appear over the site of the fracture.
- Limited Arm Movement: The individual may experience difficulty in lifting the arm due to pain and weakness in the shoulder.
- Grinding Sensation: If trying to move the arm or shoulder, there might be a grinding or crackling sensation in the collarbone area.
- Tenderness: The skin over the collarbone may be tender to the touch, and there can be increased pain with any pressure on the area.
Recognizing these symptoms promptly can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing a Broken Collarbone
Diagnosing a broken collarbone typically involves a combination of a physical examination and imaging tests:
Physical Examination
The healthcare provider will start with a thorough examination of the affected area. They will check for swelling, tenderness, bruising, and deformity. They may also assess the range of motion in the shoulder and arm.
Imaging Tests
Your doctor may recommend imaging tests to see the extent of the injury. These scans include:
- X-rays: This is the most common imaging test used to confirm a fracture. X-rays can show the location and severity of the break.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: In complex cases or where more detail is needed, a CT scan may be used. It provides a more detailed image of the bone and is helpful in planning surgery if needed.
- Ultrasound: Occasionally, an ultrasound may be used to assess the soft tissue around the collarbone and to check for additional injuries in the area.
Review of Symptoms and History
The healthcare provider will also discuss how the injury occurred and the symptoms experienced. This helps in understanding the mechanism of the injury and any potential complications.
A timely and accurate diagnosis is necessary for effective treatment and quick recovery from a broken collarbone.
Treatment Options
The treatment of a broken collarbone depends on several factors, including the severity of the fracture, age of the patient, and their overall health. Here are the primary treatment options:
- Immobilization: In most cases, non-surgical treatment involves immobilizing the arm and shoulder using a sling or a figure-eight brace.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation during the healing process.
- Physical Therapy: Once the bone begins to heal, physical therapy may be initiated to regain strength and mobility in the shoulder and arm.
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): For severe fractures where the bones are significantly displaced or multiple fragments exist, surgery may be necessary. The surgeon repositions the fractured bone fragments and uses surgical hardware to secure them in place.
- Reconstruction Surgery: In cases of complex fractures or when ligaments and tendons are damaged, reconstruction surgery may be performed to restore normal shoulder function.
Broken Collarbone Treatment Near Me in San Antonio, TX
Broken collarbones are a common yet manageable injury. It is important to remember that each case is unique, and what works for one person may not be the best approach for another. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment plans.
You can trust the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine for personalized broken collarbone treatment near you. Under the care of the best surgeons in San Antonio, you can rest assured you will receive the highest quality services. You may book a visit with us by calling (210) 692-7400 or submitting an online appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
