Joe A Shaw PA-C - 10/13/2008
Question
Broken_right_clavicle
It's been 2 weeks since I broke my clavicle when I fell from the bike. I've been to the emergency where they took some x-RAYs(please see the attachment) and gave me a simple sling and sent me home telling me that in the end I'll have a big bump on my shoulder. The pain subsided in 4-5 days and now I'm in pain only when I get dressed (due to movement in my shoulder). My main concern is that the two fragments are not alligned properly, because the fragment attached to the sternum is close to the neck, and creates a sharp bump on my shoulder. This bump dissapears when I lay down on my back, and the clavicle seems normal then.
1. How will it be in the end? Will I be able to move my hand like before?
2. What will happen to the sharp bump and the fragment closer to the neck?
3. Shouldn't have the doctors tried to allign the fragments?
4. What can be done now so I can move my hand properly in the future?
AnswerTudor,
1. How will it be in the end? Will I be able to move my hand like before?
Clavicle fx shouldn't effect your hand at all?, may effect shoulder movement some, but most recover fully..wear sling or figure 8 wrap/brace
2. What will happen to the sharp bump and the fragment closer to the neck?
Like your DR said you will have a bump there at the skin surface
3. Shouldn't have the doctors tried to allign the fragments?
Not usually, broken bones put out calcium all around the broken area called callus formation, and remember bones are living tissue so it will usually grow back. As with any break there is a chance of non-union as a complication in some people. So make sure you follow your DRs instructions.
4. What can be done now so I can move my hand properly in the future?
Again shouldn't effect the hand function. You need to follow your Drs instructions and call his office if you are not sure what to do. You should get another xray in about 4 wks or so to see how it is progressing.
