Clavicle fracture

A clavicle fracture usually occurs as a result of a severe fall or a direct blow to the shoulder and is accompanied by sharp pain, inability to move the arm normally, and a feeling of instability in the shoulder girdle.

At the Oxford Medical Medical Center in Kyiv, a 24-hour trauma unit is available, where you can seek medical care immediately after an injury, regardless of the time of day. The availability of modern digital X-ray equipment allows for rapid diagnosis of a clavicle fracture, detection of displacement, and assessment of the extent of the injury.

You can schedule an appointment by phone. If a clavicle fracture is suspected, do not delay seeking medical attention.

Proper first aid for a clavicle fracture helps reduce pain, prevent additional displacement of bone fragments, and safely transport the injured person to a medical facility. The main goal is to limit movements of the shoulder girdle as much as possible.

Recommended actions:

• immobilize the arm in a bent position, pressing the elbow against the body, using a sling, bandage, or available materials;

• apply cold to the injured area through a cloth for 10–15 minutes to reduce pain and swelling;

• avoid any active movements of the arm and do not attempt to realign or “set” the clavicle on your own;

• if necessary, take a pain reliever provided there are no contraindications;

• seek medical attention as soon as possible for an X-ray examination and to determine the further treatment approach.

If there is pronounced deformity, increasing pain, numbness of the arm, or impaired sensation in the fingers, immediate emergency medical care is required.

Rehabilitation after a clavicle fracture is a mandatory stage of recovery, regardless of whether the fracture was treated conservatively or surgically. Its goal is to restore shoulder joint mobility, muscle strength, and prevent the development of chronic pain.

During rehabilitation, it is recommended to:

• follow the immobilization regimen for the period determined by the physician, even if pain has decreased, as premature removal of a bandage or orthosis may lead to recurrent displacement of bone fragments;

• avoid lifting the arm, sudden movements in the shoulder joint, weight-bearing on the injured limb, and lifting heavy objects until complete bone healing;

• perform movements of the fingers, wrist, and elbow permitted by the physician to maintain blood circulation and prevent stiffness, without engaging the shoulder girdle;

• gradually restore movements in the shoulder joint after bone healing has been confirmed, starting with a limited range of motion and guided by the absence of pain;

• increase load gradually, avoiding sudden movements and exercises performed “through pain,” as this may prolong the recovery period;

• perform therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation programs only on the recommendation of a physician or rehabilitation specialist to restore shoulder girdle muscle strength;

• avoid carrying bags on the injured shoulder, prolonged stay in uncomfortable positions, and everyday loads with the affected arm;

• return to physical work, sports, and an active lifestyle only after the physician’s approval, when the bone has fully healed and the shoulder is ready for loading;

• seek medical attention promptly if pain increases, swelling appears, numbness of the fingers occurs, weakness in the arm develops, or sensory disturbances arise.

Following these recommendations during rehabilitation after a clavicle fracture helps reduce the risk of complications, restore full arm function, and safely return to a normal lifestyle.

In most cases, a clavicle fracture heals without serious problems when timely and appropriate treatment is provided. However, significant fragment displacement, violation of immobilization protocols, or premature loading may lead to complications that affect shoulder girdle function and quality of life.

Possible consequences and complications include:

• improper healing of the clavicle with deformity formation, which may be visually noticeable and affect shoulder girdle biomechanics;

• chronic pain in the clavicle or shoulder area that persists during physical activity, manual work, or prolonged staying in one position;

• limited mobility of the shoulder joint resulting from prolonged immobilization or insufficient rehabilitation;

• decreased strength of the shoulder girdle muscles and rapid fatigue of the arm during routine daily activities;

• irritation or injury to nerve structures, which may manifest as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm;

• delayed union or nonunion of the fracture, more commonly observed in displaced fractures, in the presence of comorbid conditions, or when medical recommendations are not followed;

• discomfort during physical exertion or sports activities even after completion of the main course of treatment.

Regular follow-up examinations, adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen, and comprehensive rehabilitation significantly reduce the risk of these complications. Timely medical consultation in case of pain, stiffness, or sensory disturbances allows for prompt adjustment of the recovery strategy and helps prevent long-term functional limitations.

The cost of treatment depends on the type of fracture and the chosen approach — conservative or surgical.

You can pre-check the prices for medical services in Kyiv on our website. The final cost is determined individually during the appointment with a traumatologist, after the examination and assessment of the clinical situation. You can make an appointment for a consultation at a time convenient for you by phone or via the online form on the website.