Clavicle Fractures: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
A clavicle is a long bone connecting the shoulder blade to the sternum, also referred to as the collarbone. As a result of trauma or injury, clavicle fractures typically occur because of a break or crack in the clavicle. About 5% of adult fractures and 10% of pediatric fractures occur as a result of clavicle fractures.
Causes of Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle fractures can occur from various causes, such as:
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Falls: Landing on the shoulder or an outstretched arm can cause the clavicle to break.
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Sports injuries: Contact sports, such as football, rugby, hockey, and martial arts, can result in direct blows to the shoulder or collarbone area, leading to fractures.
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Vehicle accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians can cause severe impact to the chest or shoulder, causing clavicle fractures.
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Birth injuries: During delivery, the baby’s clavicle may break if the shoulder gets stuck in the birth canal.
Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures
The symptoms of a clavicle fracture may include:
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Pain in the shoulder or collarbone area, especially when moving the arm or shoulder
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Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the fracture site
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A bump or deformity along the clavicle
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A grinding or cracking sensation when moving the shoulder
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Difficulty raising the arm above the shoulder level
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Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm, hand, or fingers
Diagnosis of Clavicle Fractures
To diagnose a clavicle fracture, the doctor will ask about the history of the injury, examine the affected area, and order imaging tests, such as:
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X-rays: These can show the location and severity of the fracture, as well as any displacement or angulation of the bone fragments.
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CT scan: This can provide more detailed images of the fracture and the surrounding structures, such as the nerves, blood vessels, and lungs.
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MRI: This can show the soft tissue damage and any complications, such as nerve or blood vessel injury.
Treatment of Clavicle Fractures
In addition to the patient's age, health, and activity level, the treatment for clavicle fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture. The main goals of treatment are to relieve pain, align the bone fragments, and restore function of the shoulder and arm. Treatment options include:
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To immobilize the arm and shoulder, a sling, brace, or figure-of-eight bandage is usually used to allow the fracture to heal naturally, and is typically recommended for simple, stable, or minimally displaced fractures. Painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and ice packs may also be necessary to reduce swelling and pain. It may be necessary to begin physical therapy after a few weeks to improve shoulder and arm strength and range of motion.
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In surgery, bone fragments are fixed in place with metal plates, screws, pins, wires, or rods, which promote healing by fixing them in place. When fractures are complex, unstable, or significantly displaced, or if nonsurgical treatment fails to heal well, this is usually recommended. For several weeks following surgery, the patient may need to wear a sling or brace, and follow a rehabilitation program to regain shoulder and arm function.
Prevention of Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle fractures can be prevented by taking some precautions, such as:
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Wearing protective gear, such as helmets, pads, and guards, when playing contact sports or riding vehicles
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Avoiding falls by using handrails, nonslip mats, and proper footwear
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Practicing safe driving and following traffic rules
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Strengthening the muscles and bones of the shoulder and arm with regular exercise and a balanced diet
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Seeking medical attention promptly if there is any sign of a clavicle fracture
