Services available
Clavicle Fracture
The clavicle, or collarbone, connects the arm to the body and helps support the shoulder. Clavicle fractures are common and usually happen after a fall onto the shoulder, a fall on an outstretched arm, or a direct blow during sports or a car accident.
Symptoms of a clavicle fracture include pain over the collarbone, swelling and bruising, a bump or deformity at the site of the fracture and difficulty lifting the arm. Your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and order X-rays to confirm the fracture and see how far the broken ends of the bone have moved out of place (displacement).
Fractures where the bone ends remain lined up are usually treated with a sling while the bone heals, followed by gentle motion exercises. Fractures that are completely displaced, shortened or broken into several pieces tend to heal more predictably with surgery, in which the bone is realigned and held in place with a plate and screws. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid recovery, and improve range-of-motion and strength of the arm. Read more about returning to activity after a clavicle fracture.
Book a consultation in Medford or Grants Pass, or send your MRI for a second opinion from anywhere in the country.