Broken collarbones can result from traffic accidents, sports injuries, falls, birth injuries, and other causes. They are often extremely painful, and certain risk factors can lead to long-term complications. As such, it’s essential to know what to do and what not to do with a broken collarbone.
Symptoms of a Collarbone Fracture
The symptoms of a broken collarbone are primarily localized in the shoulder area and will be exacerbated by attempts to move the shoulder. You may not be able to lift your arm, and you may feel a grinding sensation when you try. Your shoulder may also sag forward and down. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are common symptoms, and there may be a bump over the injury.
Treatment of a Clavicle Fracture
It’s important to seek treatment following a collarbone fracture to relieve pain in the short term, promote healing, and prevent long-term complications. Many collarbone fractures heal with ice, medication, arm support (such as a sling), physical therapy, and time. Surgery may be necessary if the break is severe, but a less invasive approach is usually sufficient if the bones haven’t shifted out of alignment.
It’s important to see your doctor regularly as you heal. If the fracture shifts, it can heal in the wrong position and impair your shoulder function.
Long-Term Effects of a Collarbone Injury
While many broken collarbones heal without incident, some complications of a clavicle fracture can lead to long-term conditions. In addition to chronic pain, you may experience joint problems, osteoarthritis, stiffness, limited range of motion, a visible lump, nerve damage, and shortening of the arm on the injured side.
The cost of treating the long-term effects of a broken collarbone can be considerable, which is one reason it’s so important to seek medical care immediately following an injury.
What Not to Do with a Collarbone Fracture
If you’ve fractured your clavicle, there are two main things you’ll want to avoid. First, avoid the temptation to “tough it out” without medical treatment. While your injury may heal without invasive surgery, a doctor will evaluate its condition and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.
The other important thing to do is avoid aggravating the injury and jeopardizing your healing. Stay away from any activities and movements that may make the injury worse.
Compensation for a Broken Collarbone
If you suffered a broken collarbone in an incident that was someone else’s fault, you may be able to seek compensation from them – not just for the injury itself, but for its many effects on your overall life. Your personal injury lawyer will review the facts of your case to identify all liable parties and seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Home care and modifications
- Pain and suffering
- Diminished quality of life
Contact Our Oklahoma Injury Attorneys to Learn More
If you’re worried about the long-term effects of a broken collarbone you suffered at someone else’s hands, contact Ryan Bisher Ryan and Simons for a free consultation. We’ve served Oklahoma clients for over 30 years, and our focus on personal injury cases gives us the experience to provide high-quality one-on-one service. We look forward to discussing your case and reviewing your legal options.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
