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Immediate pain at the site of the fracture, usually along the collarbone
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Swelling, bruising, or tenderness over the collarbone
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Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder, especially lifting or raising the arm
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A visible bump, deformity, or "tenting" where the broken bone pushes against the skin
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A grinding sensation when moving the shoulder
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Weakness or a sensation of the arm “hanging” due to the loss of support from the collarbone
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Dr. Romanelli will perform a physical examination to assess the location and severity of the injury. X-rays are typically used to confirm the diagnosis, determine the type of fracture, and assess whether the bones are displaced (out of alignment). In some cases, a CT scan may be needed to get a clearer view of complex or severely displaced fractures.
Treatment for a clavicle fracture depends on the location, severity, and degree of displacement of the fracture. Non-surgical treatment is often effective for fractures where the bones remain aligned, while surgery may be required for more complex fractures.
Non-surgical treatment options for a clavicle fracture may include:
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Immobilization: A sling or figure-8 brace may be used to immobilize the arm and shoulder, allowing the fracture to heal in the correct position.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can help manage discomfort during the healing process.
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Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that involve heavy lifting, overhead movements, or stress on the shoulder will allow the bone to heal properly.
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Follow-up X-rays: Periodic X-rays may be taken to ensure the bone is healing correctly and remains in proper alignment.
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Surgery may be necessary if the fracture is significantly displaced, involves multiple fragments, or fails to heal with conservative treatment. Surgical options include:
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Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): This procedure involves repositioning the broken bone fragments and securing them with plates, screws, or pins to ensure proper alignment during healing.
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Intramedullary Rod Fixation: In some cases, a rod is inserted into the bone to stabilize the fracture from the inside, providing additional support during recovery.
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Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery after a clavicle fracture, whether treated surgically or non-surgically. Once the bone has healed, physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder. Dr. Romanelli works closely with physical therapists to create a personalized rehabilitation plan that helps patients regain shoulder function and return to normal activities as quickly as possible.
Whether you're seeking expert care for a sports injury, work-related issue, or a chronic condition, Dr. Romanelli and his team are here to provide personalized, state-of-the-art surgical solutions. Get in touch today to take the first step toward recovery.
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