Clavicle
Traumatic Orthopaedic Injuries - Upper Limb Fractures: Clavicle
A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a common injury that can significantly impact shoulder function and arm movement. The clavicle is a long, slender bone that connects the shoulder blade to the breastbone, forming part of the shoulder joint. Fractures of the clavicle often occur due to trauma such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents. While most clavicle fractures heal with non-surgical treatments, some cases may require surgical intervention to restore alignment and function.
What Is A Clavicle Fracture?
A clavicle fracture occurs when the collarbone breaks, often due to a direct blow or fall onto the shoulder. These fractures can vary in severity and are classified as:
- Non-Displaced Fractures: The bone remains aligned despite the break.
- Displaced Fractures: The bone fragments are out of alignment.
- Comminuted Fractures: The bone is broken into multiple pieces.
Fractures can occur in different parts of the clavicle, including the middle third (most common), lateral third (closer to the shoulder), or medial third (closer to the breastbone).
Causes Of Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle fractures are often the result of trauma or excessive stress on the shoulder. Common causes include:
- Falls: Falling onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder.
- Sports Injuries: High-impact activities or collisions during sports such as rugby, cycling, or skiing.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: High-energy trauma from accidents.
- Direct Blows: A direct impact to the clavicle from an object or collision.
Symptoms Of Clavicle Fractures
Symptoms of a clavicle fracture may include:
- Severe pain in the shoulder or collarbone area, especially when moving the arm.
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness over the collarbone.
- A visible deformity or bump at the fracture site.
- Difficulty lifting or moving the arm.
- A grinding or cracking sensation during shoulder movement.
- Numbness or tingling in the arm if nerves are affected.
If these symptoms occur following trauma, prompt medical evaluation is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Risk Factors For Clavicle Fractures
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of sustaining a clavicle fracture, including:
- Age: Children, adolescents, and older adults are more prone to fractures due to growth plate vulnerability or reduced bone density.
- Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Sports Participation: High-impact sports like football, rugby, or skiing.
- Occupational Risks: Jobs involving heavy lifting or working at heights.
- Previous Shoulder Injuries: A history of shoulder or collarbone injuries may increase susceptibility.
Treatment Options For Clavicle Fractures
Treatment for clavicle fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health and activity goals. Options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Immobilisation: A sling or shoulder immobiliser may be used to stabilise the fracture and allow it to heal naturally.
- Pain Management: Medications to reduce pain and inflammation during recovery.
- Physiotherapy: Once the fracture begins to heal, exercises can help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder and arm.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery may be necessary for displaced, comminuted, or open fractures, or when the bone fragments threaten to damage surrounding structures:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Realigning the bone fragments and securing them with plates, screws, or pins.
- External Fixation: A stabilising frame outside the shoulder for severe fractures or when internal fixation is not feasible.
Dr Scott Tulloch will assess the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the fracture type, the patient’s lifestyle, and long-term goals.
When Should You Seek Help For A Clavicle Fracture?
You should seek medical attention if:
- You experience severe pain, swelling, or deformity in the collarbone following an injury.
- You are unable to move or use the affected arm.
- You notice numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm, which may indicate nerve involvement.
- Symptoms persist despite rest and over-the-counter pain relief.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for ensuring proper healing, restoring function, and minimising complications such as stiffness or chronic instability.
If you would like to learn more about clavicle fractures or discuss your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
