Clavicle Fracture
What is a Clavicle Fracture?
A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is an injury to the bone that connects your arm to your body. This bone, the clavicle, can break due to traumatic events such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents. broken collarbone are common among children, older adults, and even newborns during birth.
Symptoms
If you have a clavicle fracture, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Shoulder slumping forward and downward
- A snapping sound at the time of the injury
- Immediate pain in the shoulder or collarbone
- Tenderness when touching the area
- Pain when attempting to move your arm
- Bruising or swelling over the collarbone
- A grinding sensation when moving the arm
- A visible bump or bulge near the shoulder
Diagnosis of a Clavicle Fracture
If you suspect a clavicle fracture, seeking medical attention is crucial. Dr. Babatunde, an expert in shoulder and clavicle injuries, will examine your shoulder and likely order X-rays to confirm the fracture and assess its severity. In some cases, a CT scan may be recommended for a more detailed evaluation.
Treatment Options
Most clavicle fractures can be treated with conservative methods, including:
- Immobilization using a sling
- Medications to manage pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy after initial healing to restore mobility and strengthen muscles
However, in cases where the bone is significantly displaced or fragmented, surgery may be required. Dr. Babatunde is experienced in performing surgical procedures to realign or reconstruct the clavicle, ensuring proper healing and recovery.
Treating Clavicle Fracture from Dr. Babatunde
At Dr. Babatunde’s practice, we prioritize conservative treatment options for clavicle fractures, focusing on alleviating pain and restoring shoulder function. Our approach includes:
- Rest: Allowing your clavicle to heal naturally without unnecessary strain.
- Immobilization: Using a sling to stabilize the shoulder and promote healing.
- Heat or Ice Therapy: Reducing pain and inflammation at the injury site.
- Medications: Prescribing pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Physical Therapy: Once healing has progressed, customized exercises to improve strength and mobility.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adjusting daily activities to avoid aggravating the injury.
If the fracture is severe or the bone is significantly displaced, surgical intervention may be necessary. Dr. Babatunde offers advanced surgical options, such as:
- Clavicle Realignment Surgery: To reposition and stabilize the fractured bone.
- Bone Plate or Pin Fixation: Using hardware to secure the bone and ensure proper healing.
Don’t let a clavicle fracture disrupt your active lifestyle. Contact Dr. Babatunde today for personalized treatment options designed to help you recover fully and regain shoulder function.