Synonym
Collarbone fracture, clavicula fracture
Definition
A fracture of the clavicle is one of the most common types of fracture in children, and they are also relatively common in adults. A distinction is made between fractures of the clavicle, where the fracture of the middle third is by far the most common. The cause is usually a fall on the arm or shoulder. – internal (medial),
- Medium or
- Outer (lateral) third,
Symptoms of a clavicula fracture
Since the collarbone is relatively superficial, i.e. close to the skin, a sign of a fracture is often a swelling over the affected area. Depending on the location of the fracture, the formation of a step may also be noticeable, as the outer and inner ends protrude in different directions. Often, the affected person adopts a relieving posture in which the arm is placed against the body and the shoulder is tilted forward.
As with any other fracture of the collarbone, it is important that the DMS status is checked by a doctor. Blood vessels or nerves can be injured in the course of a fracture, so that one or more of these qualities may be restricted or lost. In such cases, quick action must be taken to prevent permanent damage. – pressure pain over this area and
- Pain during movements of the arm and chest typical. – D stands for blood circulation,
- M for motor skills and
- S for sensitivity.
Pain with a clavicula fracture
Pain is considered a general sign of fracture along with swelling, restricted movement and crepitations (rubbing of bone parts). The pain usually occurs immediately after the trauma. If the trauma is indirect, the clavicle breaks in the middle third in 80% of cases.
This area in the middle third is then particularly painful under pressure. In general, pressure pain over the fractured area of the clavicle is very pronounced. Pain in a clavicula fracture is mainly expressed as pain in movement, which is accompanied by a restriction of arm and shoulder movement.
Some of the pain can radiate into the chest, arm and shoulder. The duration of the pain can vary from person to person. Within the scope of conservative (non-operative) therapy measures, affected persons usually receive adequate pain therapy for acute pain reduction.
However, immediate freedom from pain cannot be achieved immediately. Immediately after surgery, the pain can be even more severe, as the surrounding tissue and the fracture site itself are irritated by the invasive procedure. In general, the pain should optimally subside bit by bit with the start of therapeutic measures.
In order to positively influence a reduction in pain, affected persons should immobilize the shoulder in a rucksack or Gilchrist bandage for as long as prescribed. Overall, the pain can be expected to last up to 4 weeks. From then on, physiotherapeutic treatment can also begin, which at best takes place in a pain-free state.
