What Is A Clavicle Fracture?
The clavicle, or collarbone, is a curved bone located horizontally at the top of the thorax. Its primary function is to act as a strut between the sternum and the scapula, providing stability and support to the upper limb. The clavicle’s role is essential to the range of motion of the upper limb. When the shoulder girdle undergoes a blunt force trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a direct blow, the clavicle is prone to fracture. This is a common condition that accounts for about 5% of all adult bone fractures.
Are There Different Types Of Clavicle Fractures?
A clavicle fracture can be classified based on the location of the fracture. The most common type is a fracture in the middle of the clavicle bone occurs in the lateral or distal area of the clavicle near the top of the scapula. This type of fracture is less common than the middle clavicle fracture. The rarest type of clavicle fracture occurs in the area closest to the neck, accounting for only 2-4% of all clavicle fractures.
Are Certain Population More Risk For A Clavicle Fracture?
Clavicle fractures are typically caused by trauma, but certain individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing a fracture. Males who participate in contact sports or high-impact activities are three times more likely to experience a clavicle fracture. Children and teenagers between the ages of 10 and 19 are also at risk due to their bones still growing and having lower density. Older adults are also at risk due to the natural decrease in bone density that occurs with aging, which can cause even minor injuries to result in a clavicle fracture.
Symptoms Of A Clavicle Fracture
One of the most typical symptoms of a clavicle fracture is a sharp pain in the collarbone area immediately following an injury. However, symptoms can vary in severity, and other common symptoms of a clavicle fracture include
- Pain with arm movement
- Shoulder stiffness
- Obvious visual deformity of the clavicle
- Difficulty with lifting or rotating the affected arm
- Downward shoulder sag
- Tenderness, inflammation, and bruising of the affected clavicle.
How Is A Clavicle Fracture Or Broken Collarbone Diagnosed?
Dr. Nawaid Ahmed will conduct a detailed medical assessment, which will cover the initial injury and any other relevant medical issues. During the office visit, a complete physical examination will also be carried out. To confirm the diagnosis of a clavicle fracture, an X-ray will be performed. In some cases, further diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI, may be required to identify any damage to other structures of the shoulder girdle.
What Is The Treatment For A Clavicle Fracture?
To treat a clavicle fracture without resorting to surgery, non-invasive measures can be taken. If the bone fragments remain in their anatomical position, conservative treatments may suffice in managing symptoms during the healing process. One approach is to immobilize the affected shoulder with the clavicle in the correct position. Pain and inflammation can be managed with rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). In some cases, Dr. Ahmed may also recommend a physical rehabilitation program to improve shoulder girdle strength and range of motion.
Surgery may be required in cases where the clavicle fracture results in bone displacement, dislocation, open wounds, or if non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief. Patients experiencing any of these conditions will require surgical intervention. During the surgery, the bone fragments will be realigned into their correct anatomical position using special plates, pins, and screws. This procedure can help to stabilize the bone and promote proper healing.