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Clavicle Fracture (Broken Collarbone)
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Clavicle fracture also known as collarbone are usualy as a result of injuries and trauma.The clavicle bone is the connection between the body and arm and it carries the weight from the arm to the body. It is one of the main bones in the shoulder.
A fracture of collarbone is also known as clavicle fracture. It can result in severe pain, impaired movement and deformity or bruising.
Most clavicle fractures occur when a fall onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm puts enough pressure on the bone causing it to break.
Experienced shoulder specialists in Kenya at Nairobi Spine Orthopedic center focus on helping patients suffering from shoulder fractures to regain strength, motion and function.
Causes of Clavicle Fractures
Generally, clavicle fractures are caused by a number or reasons. For example, Direct blow to the shoulder, a fall onto the shoulder , for instance, in a road accident.In addition to that, a fall onto an outstretched arm can also cause clavicle fractures .
Similarly, a clavicle fracture can occur during child birth.
Signs & Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures
A clavicle fracture can be very painful and may make it hard to move your arm. Other signs and symptoms of a fracture may include:
- Sagging of the shoulder downward and forward
- Inability to lift the arm because of pain
- A grinding sensation when you try to raise the arm
- A deformity or “bump” over the break
- Bruising, swelling, and/or tenderness over the collarbone
Diagnosing Clavicle Fractures
Doctors diagnose clavicle fractures by reviewing your symptoms, performing a thorough physical examination and ordering imaging studies (X-ray and CT scan). An X-ray of the clavicle is taken to identify the location of the fracture.
It is important for the diagnosis to be accurate and for the distinction between a shoulder fracture and a dislocation to be made for shoulder fractures treatment.
Treatment of Shoulder Fractures
The management of clavicle fracture can be repaired by two ways. Conservative management and surgical management. The selection of treatment procedure is dependent on the location of the fracture.
Most broken collarbones heal without a surgery. An arm sling may support the arm and hold the bones in their normal position. Most importantly, You may also be given pain medications to relieve the pain.
After your pain reduces, your doctor may recommend gentle shoulder and elbow exercises to minimize stiffness and weakness in your shoulder.
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Surgical Treatment of Clavicle Fractures
Surgery is performed to align the bone ends and hold them stable during healing. It may be considered for multiple fractures, compound (open) fractures, fracture associated with nerve or blood vessel damage and displaced fractures.
During the surgical procedure, your shoulder surgeon in Nairobi, Kenya will reposition the broken bone ends into normal position. Using special screws, pins or metal plates, the surgeon will then hold the bone fragments in place during healing.
Recovery after Clavicle Fracture Surgery
Post-operative rehabilitation include specific exercise program to restore movement and strengthen the shoulder.
The exercise program involves gentle motion exercises and strengthening exercises. These helps the patient to improve the quality of life after the surgery.
A sling is used to protect the area for four to six weeks after surgery.