Broken Collarbone – Diagnosis and Treatment
The clavicle, often called the collarbone, is a long bone that connects the shoulder to the breastbone. This bone plays a key role in helping the arm move and giving support to the shoulder.
A broken collarbone is a common injury, especially in falls, sports, or accidents. Knowing how the clavicle works and what happens when it breaks can help people understand treatment and recovery options.
Diagnosis
Doctors check for pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the shoulder and collarbone area. They assess for visible deformity, protrusions, or bumps along the clavicle that suggest a break.
Limited arm movement and grinding sensations when lifting the arm may also indicate a fracture.
X-rays are the primary imaging tool used to determine the location, severity, and pattern of the fracture, including whether the bone is displaced, fragmented, or angulated.
In some cases, particularly with complex or joint-involving fractures, a CT scan may be ordered to provide more detailed cross-sectional images.
Doctors may also evaluate for associated injuries, such as damage to nearby blood vessels, nerves, or the lung (e.g., pneumothorax), especially if there was high-impact trauma.
A complete physical examination and imaging review guide decisions for treatment and possible referral to an orthopedic specialist.
Treatment
Pain Relief Methods
Medications help control discomfort linked to a collarbone fracture. People often use over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage mild or moderate pain.
In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medicines containing narcotics for a short period. People should use prescription pain medicines only briefly and exactly as instructed, due to the risk of dependency.
Rehabilitation and Movement
Doctors encourage early movement of the shoulder and arm to prevent stiffness. Typically, patients begin gentle exercises soon after the injury, even while they support the arm in a sling.
Once the bone starts to heal, physical therapists may add exercises to restore normal movement and build muscle strength around the shoulder joint.
A table can be helpful to understand this process:
| Stage | Focus |
|---|---|
| Initial | Immobilization with a sling |
| Early healing | Gentle range-of-motion exercises |
| Later recovery | Strengthening and flexibility moves |
Operative Procedures
Surgeons sometimes operate if the collarbone breaks into several pieces, moves out of its normal position, or pierces the skin. The surgeon makes an incision to access the bone, then places plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the area.
This type of fixation keeps the fragments in proper alignment during healing. While most fractures heal without surgery, doctors may recommend operative treatment when conservative methods are not enough.
Children and teens under 16 usually recover without the need for surgery. Surgical complications, such as infection, rarely occur.
Everyday Care and At-Home Tips
- Immobilize the shoulder by using a sling or bandage to keep the arm in place and reduce strain on the healing bone. Follow your doctorโs instructions on how long to wear it.
- Apply an ice pack to the injured area for 20โ30 minutes every few hours during the first few days to reduce pain and swelling. Always wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin.
- Practice gentle elbow, wrist, and hand exercises to prevent joint stiffness and maintain circulation. Avoid lifting or raising your arm overhead until cleared by a healthcare provider.
- Sleep in a semi-upright position, such as in a recliner or with pillows propped behind your back, to ease discomfort at night.
- Avoid contact sports, heavy lifting, and overhead activities until your doctor confirms the bone has healed.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing through physical exams or repeat imaging.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take
Preparing for a medical visit can help the appointment go more smoothly. Consider making a list with:
- Symptoms: Note when the injury happened, what caused it, and all symptoms you have noticed.
- Medical History: Write down any past health problems, especially related to bones.
- Medications and Supplements: Include all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you take, along with their dosages.
- Questions to Ask: Prepare questions about the injury, possible treatments, recovery steps, and anything you are concerned about.
Bringing this information to your visit can help your provider give better care and answer your concerns more clearly.
What the Healthcare Provider May Discuss
During your appointment, the provider may ask questions to learn more about your condition. Common questions include:
| Question | Why Itโs Asked |
|---|---|
| Have you broken a bone in the past? | To check if you have a history of bone issues. |
| Have you ever been told your bones are not strong? | To find out about possible conditions like osteoporosis or other factors affecting bone health. |
They may also ask about how the injury happened, your symptoms, and daily activities to help with diagnosis and treatment planning.
