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What to Expect From a Broken Clavicle

The following is a funny story sent to me by a rider that broke her collar bone while cycling. She found my site when searching for more information on training and recovery from the break.

Along with the story she mentions “I know it would’ve helped me alot if this information had been available when I was lost in the land of one arm. I have attached my ridiculously long account”. She then adds that I may post the story if I wish.

Well, I think it’s well worth posting. So here it is.

Enjoy.

DISCLAIMER: The following content is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Diagnosis and treatment of all health conditions should only be performed by your doctor or other licensed health care professional. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site.

What to Expect From a Broken Clavicle

By Laura Erker

On March 23rd I had the exciting experience of breaking my left clavicle while riding my bike. I thought I’d put together a synopsis of what to expect so that anyone else can read and see what’s in store. If you’re reading this and you have broken you clavicle then get someone to run out to the store and get you some really good calcium. You should take 2000mg of calcium with 6mg of Boron a day! While they’re at it, have them pick you about four books to read and ten movies to go through. Further, a really funny account of the first five days with a broken clavicle can be found on line http://www.kurlancheek.com/clavicle.htm. Also, relax, it’s gonna be a while.

So, what happened? Good question, everyone has their own version of who is to blame and how it all went down. From my vantage point I only know that I was cruising along in a group, riding into a crosswind. Someone had the bright idea to put it in the gutter and everyone started fighting for wheels. Then, I heard some tires hit and “…zzt zzzt zzt crack crack crack”. The bike in front of me came to a screeching halt and as I hit my brakes I went into a skid that had my back wheel hit the back tire in front of me. Next thing I knew I was picking myself up off the ground and getting back on my bike. But, as I rode away I realized that something was very wrong. Not only was my left shoulder ON FIRE with pain but I could feel/hear a clicking there that could only be a broken bone. Deciding that I was not stupid enough to try to ride the remaining 25 miles with a broken bone I attempted to bring myself to a stop and threw my bike in the dirt glad to be rid of that infernal pain machine. The pain was so intense now that fainting was the only possibility. But, I had to wait to lose all consciousness until I could hail down an ambulance, cab, person! I could see a group of cars a mile away down the road at the site of the crash, where I should have stayed. Well, hindsight is always 20/20. I hailed the ambulance like a cab and crawled in just in time to faint. I was then transferred to another ambulance and so began my new adventure into a one-armed existence.

The emergency room was exciting and the staff was very generous. All in all, a three hour affair in the door and out. It ends up I broke the distal third of my collar bone. However, getting a hold of someone to pick me up became a new challenge. I didn’t have my cell phone with me and not knowing any phone numbers I had to go on the internet to get the number of my team director, Chris Evertsen. Chris or an official was able to relate to my husband where I was located and he headed off to get me. After sitting in the emergency entrance for hours, seeing my husband come through the door of the emergency room was one of the happiest moments of my life!

Week 1 (This is movie week)

One quickly learns that it is a two-armed world out there and this will not make your broken clavicled life any easier. But, on with life.

Killing the pain. First, let’s discuss the power of alchohol. Through the ages this fine substance has been used to dull the pain of many a fallen soldier. Seeing myself as such, I broke into the whiskey with wild abandon. Choosing Jack Daniels’ as my personal “fav’ I set out to imbibe. If you dose this correctly you won’t have to pick up your prescription vicadin. Careful to drink a glass of water for each alcoholic drink so you avoid hangovers.

Dressing, this becomes a new adventure. You must keep your hurt shoulder extremely still. This means that the arm attached to it is completely useless. If you are a woman then forget the bra. If you must have a bra get someone you “trust’ to put your most comfortable one on and realize you will be wearing this item for at least two or three days. Unable to work out how to get a t-shirt on I tried my shirts that button up. You soon come to realize that buttons are not an option. Ok, back to regular shirts. I could get large t-shirts on by feeding the sleeve of the bad arm over my useless hand up to my armpit and then carefully pulling it over my head and then putting my functional arm in the other arm hole. Getting the t-shirt off again is usually a two-person project. Forget tying shoelaces or wearing tight pants, they become the enemy.

Sleeping. Most certainly, one must avoid, at all costs, rolling onto the affected shoulder during the first week. This will wake you up in just as much pain as the day you crashed. I found that propping pillows all along the length of my body helped to reduce unwarranted movement. I slept a lot, there wasn’t much else to do. But, this doesn’t really matter, as dressing, eating, and drinking will take about 5 times longer than usual, so I filled my day accordingly.

Book read: Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Movies watched: a lot!
Alcohol consumption: can’t accurately remember :’)

Week 2

Now I was really starting to feel better, less pain in the shoulder and I could use my hand a bit. But my shoulder turned a pallid green. The bruising is disgusting and continued to creep down my torso for another week. But, since I only owned three t-shirts that I could manage to pull over my arm and head I just continued with the same state of affairs. It was about now that I realized I only had one thing to do to entertain myself!go to work. So, off I went arm in sling. I had only two things on my “to do” list each day. These items were usually something that would normally take me about an hour. Not now, I could spend all day working on simple problems. I had to get people to open the freezers for me and handle mice etc! But I got to talk with everyone at work quite a bit :’). I’d be able to work about 6 hours maximum a day before I completely cracked. This is when I learned to value of ibuprofen! One little pill can take a cranky/pained Laura and turn her into a working machine for about 2 more hours, lovely.

Comraderie. It was now that I learned that walking around in a sling attracts a lot of attention. People have to comment. They can’t help it.

“Fall off a bar stool?”
“Boy, broken collar bone, that’s the worst!”

I quickly pointed out that being on fire would probably be worse, but ok it’s nice to know people care.

I also learned that other injured people are most certainly your friend. You have to ask them what they did, and if they have a good left arm then you always ask if you could borrow it, or something corny like this. But, it’s fun.

I also started to get on the bike at the gym around this time. According to one man, I was great inspiration working out with my sling on. Well, I’d surely give up my inspiration status to use my left arm again, buddy! I went home suddenly after some of these visits to the gym because I would try to do too much and BLAM, pain again. Don’t do sit ups.

Doctor visit. It was mid-week that I was able to go and see a doctor. I sat there for about an hour just to get a referral to an orthopedist. Once I got in to see the nurse she looked straight at me (let me remind the reader that I was wearing my left arm in a sling and was covered with a big green bruise that covered my arm and torso)!

“So, what is your problem, today?”
“I have a broken clavicle and need to be referred to an orthopedist”
“Which arm is broken?”
(again, I remind the reader that my left arm was is a sling)
“My left arm”
“Okay, and what are you doing for it?”
I point to the sling, flabbergasted.
“When did it happen?”
“One week ago” I replied.
Surprised, “And you haven’t been in to see a doctor yet?”
“Well, no, I was just starting to feel like I could venture out of my “healing cocoon’.”
“Alright, let’s get you an appointment. Right, so the soonest our orthopedist can see you will be April 22nd.”
“That’s in three weeks! I have a broken bone. Isn’t there something sooner?”
“There isn’t really anything we can do for that, do you have any ibuprofen?”

Eventually I got x-rayed and was told to come back in three weeks.

Book Read: Second Foundation, Isaac Asimov

Week 3

I felt the same as Week 2 but was able to get on the trainer with my sling. I got a workout regimen from Hans Kellner on line. Very nice guy, who broke his clavicle a while back, you can go to !

Hans Kellner Dot Com :: Broken Clavicle No More

The training regimen consists of workouts broken up by Week 1, Week 2, and Week 3. Wow, I thought, this guy was training at week 1. Well, straight onto the trainer then, let’s get to work. Ends up, “Week 1” should be approached more as “the first week he began training after the break”. Holding my entire upper body up on my bike trainer with just my right arm was another challenge I hadn’t anticipated. I pushed through it. Also, it seems it only took Hans three weeks to recover, that’s only as long as his workout regimen was. Excellent, I’ll only be on the trainer for one week! This is great. Again, it ends up the three week training regimen can be repeated ad infinitum until you heal, just a little heads up.

Pit of Despair. This probably only applies to women. I could not shave the injured arm’s pit! This was horrible and I began to refer to this area of my body as the “pit of despair”. This is when you realize the ultimate greatness of the Mach 3 razor. You can literally shave without lifting your arm! Well lift it as much as you can. Good luck girls!

Book read: Swimming Across by Andrew Grove

Week 4

Having contracted some kind of horrible cold (which I affectionately call “the snot blanket”) I was unable to sleep at night or workout. I fell into a depressive mood. Out of desperation I rode my bike on the road for one hour and ended up hurting it again. This is when I completely cracked under the strain of heading out into the world each and every day facing new painful challenges. I was tired of it. I wanted just one day where I didn’t have to struggle to get my clothes on or sleep! I felt that no one could possibly understand the pain I was going through. It was during this time that a friend and coworker died in a tragic car accident. Suddenly I found myself very appreciative of my situation. I was alive, fairly healthy and had people that loved me.

Back to riding, I found that I couldn’t reach the handlebars with my bad arm until the end of Week 4, this may be because I had a distal break, but I don’t know. I just kept focusing on my appointment with the doctor and the x-ray machine. He would certainly tell me that I was completely healed and I could resume my life again. Alas, it was not to be, the x-ray looked the same as the day I broke my arm. Well, I headed back home to cry, pulled myself together, bought a year’s supply of calcium and vowed not to drink any alcohol until I was better and healed! I hear alcohol can reduce your healing abilities. Also, when you break a bone you should take 2000mg of calcium a day with 6mg of Boron.

This was the week that I talked with Dr. Allan Richberg, also a cyclist. He informed me that seeing no healing after four weeks was normal for a 30 year old. This greatly lifted my spirits! He talked with me for a good 30 minutes on what to expect from my injury. He informed me that if you ride in the early healing stages of a broken clavicle you will most probably put a rib into your lung if you crash. This was alarming, why didn’t my doctor tell me this. Thanks Allan!

Book read: Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Doug Adams

Week 5

My arm started to feel a lot better now. I could lift it over my head! Also, I could start driving my car with two hands. This was great! I started really riding the trainer a lot and was able to just get my left hand up to the bars comfortably and put a little weight on it. I did seven hours on the trainer this week, good for me. Whoever thought I’d be riding my trainer so much in So Cal with it sunny and 80F outside!

Book read: Finished Hitch Hiker’s Guide

Week 6

I risked a ride on the road, against the doctor’s orders and found that my arm was ok. Whew!

Book read: Sequel to Hitch Hiker’s guide “Restaurant at the End of the Universe” by Doug Adams

Week 7

Now I am back to riding 3 times a week and really enjoying it. My body sure is tired though.

Book read: Finished Restaurant at the End of the Universe by Doug Adams

Week 8

I have an appointment with the doctor to get x-rayed again. Keep your fingers crossed. I am really looking forward to racing and just glued my ksyriums with the help of the best husband in the world, Jacob Erker.

Book read: Started Ringworld by Larry Niven

More “Broken Collar Bone” Articles

Don’t miss reading the information and comments in the other collar bone entries:

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759 responses

  1. Phil Avatar
    Phil

    I will summarize a long saga. This year, at age 49 I fractured my clavicle skiing. I was told by the orthopedist at the slopes that it would heal on its own, and to let pain be my guide. Well there was plenty of pain and crepsis and it just did not seem any better after 6-8 weeks. I should have gotten a follow-up x-ray at that point, but since I was on Health-Net, harder than you think. After 3-4 months it still was hurting, so I had a follow-up x-ray and was told that the initial injury was more of a shatter than a break, there was a “non-union” of the bones, and that surgery was probably needed from the get-go. So now I am on a stimulator 24 hours a day for two more months. If the electric stimulation does not encourage bone growth, I will need an operation for pins, or have to live with it. So, I encourage all you out there to be careful with the injury and aggressive about seeking qualified medical advice.

    Reply
  2. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tracie – It appears that most doctors consider broken clavicles “boring” and don’t spend much time, if any, learning how to treat them. They may be wonderful and knowledgeable doctors. But there is only so much they can know.
    Then there is the problem of finding a doctor that also understands the needs of an athlete and the impact the break will have on the patient. Again, that’s why I highly recommend seeking out a doctor that specializes in sports related injuries.
    “I sleep with my sling on – but after the first few weeks i started to loosen it at night so that I could straighten my arm out” – Flexing and using your elbow joint is important. My doctor recommended that almost from the start. Remove the arm from the sling and work the range of motion of the elbow but without moving the shoulder. Otherwise there is a chance of reducing mobility in your elbow. Then you will need physical therapy to regain the range.
    “how far along were you when you started doing shoulder strengthening exercises?” – It was wasn’t until at least two months before I was actively began using resistance to work my shoulder. Before then it was only range-of-motion exercises.
    “At what point did you start taking your arm out of the sling?” – As mentioned above, I would remove my arm from the sling periodically throughout the day and at night. I began doing this around the first week and increased the number of times farther along.
    “you were bike riding after 4 weeks but were you actually able to ride normally” – Yes, but my shoulder was still a little weak from the lack of use. I rode carefully and I wasn’t doing any extreme riding. I was also only my road bike and had to let my mountain bike take a vacation. But at that point I had a fairly solid clavicle and was quickly feeling better and better.
    I know how depressing it can be. Keep your head up. And remember, we are lucky because it’s curable! :’)

    Reply
  3. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    It baffles me how many conflicting opinions there are regarding the figure-8 sling and it distresses me to think that perhaps I should have had one all along. I was given a crappy (as in not very durable) sling from emergency the night of my accident and had to buy another better one myself – in fact the one I bought probably has a fit similar to the figure-8 as it has an additional strap around my waist and pulls my arm in snugly to my body. Both the doctor in emerg and my family doctor suggested the regular sling and there was never any mention of the figure-8 (except when I asked specifically). I have no doubt, as you suggest Hans, that my doctor is not very knowledgable about clavicle breaks. She’s been a great doctor (reasonably young – but not too young, attentive, very informed) but seems surprisingly ignorant in this case. That’s one reason why i’m on this website – trying to get as many different opinions as possible to weigh my options. I’ve actually learned more from this website than from my doctor and physiotherapist combined. Figue-8 slings make a lot of sense to me, especially in the initial healing stages since keeping the clavicle immobilized seems to be so important.
    Terry- I’d be interested to hear your doctor’s opinion regarding the figure-8. Maybe it’s a ‘Canadian thing’! Guelph – by the way – but I studied at Carleton… lived in Ottawa for many years. I remember our health care system pre: Mike HArris’ Conservatives, by the way. Yeah. a mess now.
    I sleep with my sling on – but after the first few weeks i started to loosen it at night so that I could straighten my arm out. My arm was so stiff before I started to do that; it felt like a lead pipe and was about as heavy as one too. So i would move the velcro down in order to straighten it, but keep the sling on, then pull the sling up snug when I had to get up. I have NO idea if this is recommended at all (did not move my arm at all initially.. it felt too scary).
    Hans, how far along were you when you started doing shoulder strengthening exercises? At what point did you start taking your arm out of the sling? I spent about 2 hours yesterday with my arm out of the sling. It seemed fine, but I’m sure I need to do more exercises as my shoulder feels pathetically weak. You mentioned that you were bike riding in Europe after 4 weeks, and I know that every case is individual, but were you actually able to ride normally at that point in time? I feel like getting on my bike (or dirt bike) right now would be scary. We’re going to Moab, Colorado, Arizona in 2 weeks time and I REALLY want to bring my mountain bike.For sure I will ask my physiotherapist as I realize that every case is individual (advancing age, female gender.. !) but I was in very good condition pre: break.
    4 weeks? bike riding? I will be at 7 weeks when we leave.
    I sound so desperate… sigh…

    Reply
  4. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tracie – I think that you should follow the advice of a good physical therapist and/or a doctor that you trust regarding beginning arm/shoulder strengthening. Flexibility and strength are important but not at the risk of further injury while recovering. We can only offer suggestions but a qualified doctor and/or physical therapist that examines you will need to make the call. One important point, which Tom comments on after your comment, is the need to move the arm and shoulder so as not to “seize” up the joint. The is also known as a “frozen shoulder” (see http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/frozenshoulder/a/frozenshoulder.htm). Regarding your comment “My doctor told me that the figure 8 brace isn’t used anymore”. That appears to be an assumption in the medical community. But it isn’t true as is obvious from those that have been given figure-8 slings by their doctors. My doctor gave me one and I recovered quickly. If your doctor makes statements that Figure-8’s aren’t used anymore then he must be ignorant about clavicle breaks or is set on his/her ways or treatment.
    Tom – Thanks very much for that link to that informative document. After reading through the abstract and looking at the chart, there’s some important points to note: “the risk of nonunion was significantly increased by advancing age, female gender, displacement of the fracture, and the presence of comminution”. So there are some common conditions that can lead to a non-union. But, it good to see that there is a chance for a break to heal even after 24 weeks.
    Terry – “When I lie down, this bump goes away. Does this make sense?” Yes. The bump is formed at the union of the broken ends of the clavicle. The lump may go away with time.

    Reply
  5. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Tracie – do you sleep with your sling on? Where in Canada do you live? Just curious…I’m in Ottawa and the health care system needs help.
    I have an appointment with my family doctor on Wed and will ask him about the figure 8 brace. I find when I arch/pull back my shoulders, my broken collar bone seems to fall back in place and a figure 8 brace would help with that more than a sling. I guess there are 2 schools of thought on the figure 8 brace and the sling. Too bad not everyone is on the same page to avoid doubt and confusion.

    Reply
  6. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    My doctor told me that the figure 8 brace isn’t used anymore – that it’s antiquated and kind of like an instrument of torture – but others seem to swear by it. I’ve been in a sling for 5 weeks now and find that as you start to heal, it offers a lot of flexibility. I can lower it when I’m slouching (velcro) to read, tighten it to walk and do exercises. I sleep with piles of pillows – 3 under my head – one under my left arm (with the broken collarbone) to keep the arm level – another under my left leg and one more on the other side. That way I can’t inadvertently roll onto the bad side during the night. After 5 weeks I can almost roll over onto either side. Anyway, I hear that sleeping on your back is good for your complexion!

    Reply
  7. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Any tips for sleeping? After about 3 hours of lying down, my lower back is killing me and I have to get up. Tried putting a pillow behind my knees which helps a bit.

    Reply
  8. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Helpful site!
    I broke my collar bone on July 13 playing Ultimate Frisbee…told myself no more layouts but couldn’t resist. According to the X-ray report, there was no displacment but when I’m verticle(standing/sitting), I can feel the breakage point(large bump) sticking out under my skin. When I lie down, this bump goes away. Does this make sense? I can also feel the fracture site moving when walking or other movements. Doctor has me wearing a sling and I’m cocerned that I should be wearing a figure 8 brace like others have mentioned.

    Reply
  9. Tom Avatar
    Tom

    forgot to ask this: do people feel the fracture site ‘moving’ on the way to healing? when i lie down the site seems to bend quite a lot. it would be nice to hear that that happened to people who went on to heal!!

    Reply
  10. Tom Avatar
    Tom

    Hi,
    Am now 11 weeks in to a broken clavicle and no healing on xray… can lift my arm to horizontal sideways and almost straight forward but thats it. My advice is to use a sling if it helps the pain (maybe the first couple of weeks) but then try and move your shoulder to stop it seizing up and making matters worse!!
    People have said that after around 8 weeks if not fused it probably wont ever on this site, but my doc showed me a study with % fractures healed at 6, 12 and 24 weeks, and it does seems that the majority of fractures not completely fused at 12 weeks will by 24 weeks. But thats startying to feel like a long, long time!! You can see a table of results here: http://www.ejbjs.org/cgi/content/full/86/7/1359/DC1 . (sorry, dont know how to post it as a link!!). Reading the abstract may help to. Its not possible to read the whole study without subscribing though. hope this helps people!

    Reply
  11. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    I mean NON fused bones – but fibrous tissue – makes sense..

    Reply
  12. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    That makes sense Hans- the fibrous tissue thing, but the idea of the bone not actually fusing freaks me out . I have, in fact, been to a physiotherapist, but for my other non-shoulder related injuries on my other side. He was much more helpful than my doctor, in fact, and gave me some very precise and good exercises to help my leg/hip along. His advice re: the collarbone, was to come back when the bone was 80% healed (fused?) and then we could start doing some exercises. I’m fed up with my doctor at the moment – she ordered the x-rays 2 weeks ago, then went on vacation so i couldn’t get the results until this week. When I called to get the results, the receptionist told me that, yes, the results had come in, then proceeded to read them to me over the phone. “X-ray shows fractured clavicle” – no kidding. THen she said, well it’s only been 3 weeks – when in fact it had been 5. I don’t think either my doctor or receptionist understands how critical it is for an active person to be given the green light to go ahead and join the land of the living again. Their attitudes were cavalier- and in fact my doctor hasn’t even seen the x-rays; the radiologist sent her a FAX with the ‘results’. My theory is that no one has examined the x-rays to determine the extent of healing… (I live in Canada – we are currently undergoing a sort of ‘health care crisis’.. too few doctors/under funding in hospitals/labs etc.) Anyway,fused bones makes sense. Think I’ll go back to see the physio guy. I can’t really tell him anything re: bone healing, but I would assume he’s knowledgable enough to not suggest anything that would injure a possibly-non-healed bone? Do you think I should take the sling off to start strengthening the arm/shoulder?

    Reply
  13. kool Avatar
    kool

    I’m glad that I can read about other’s experiences fromt his site… I like to share my own experience..
    I broke my collar bone on 29th may in a charity ride (on a bicycle, going down slope, lost balance – I am a beginner in cycling). Like Carl (May 21), the x-ray showed the clavicle in a “z” position, but didn’t see any TCM doctors. I saw 4 othopathedic surgeons instead, 2 of them suggested surgery. Reason for surgery – my shoulder would be shorter and i would experience some restricted movements in sports like swimming free style.
    I opted for natural healing and I am into my 8th week. I am still experience lot aches and discomfort. It is worst than the initial 4 weeks. All the doctor did was to give me more pain killers. Pain has been a part of the whole process since day 1. Friends with the same injury recovered within 8 weeks.
    My physio therapist confirmed that on top of the broken clavicle, i had a sprained elbow (same side – left), which explained why I experience pain when I moved my arm. She is more helping than the doctor. she explained concepts, what to expect and what I could do to ease the pain.. (using heat pack)
    I will be seeing my doctor on 2 Aug. I was told that if there is a non-union of the bone, I have to go under the knife. Till then, there is nothing I could not about it..

    Reply
  14. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tracie – If you are that far along after the accident and the broken collar bone still hasn’t fused then I’m guessing it won’t. It’s possible that your body is forming fibrous tissue around the break. That happened with mine and it helped to stablize the bone. In fact, I was riding my bike around Europe a month later without any problems.
    Some of the other problems you are having, such as range of motion in the arm, might be caused by more than just the collar bone. You might have done some soft tissue damage. Have you gone to a physical therapist yet? If not then I highly recommend that you go. Find one that understands sports related injuries. The one I have been seeing has helped tremendously and given me more information than my orthopedist.
    As for backpacking? Well, check with your doctor and/or P.T. person. Describe how good a backpack you have and how much weight you will be carrying. Your friends are correct about trying too much too soon. You also have the option of testing your significant other “Honey, since I can’t carry anything… would you mind?” :’)

    Reply
  15. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    It’s great to commiserate. It’s a strangely isolating experience being home with a broken collarbone. Not sick, not disabled enough to be housebound, not able enough to do normal activities – strange space to be in. I hate it, but know that I have already gained a much greater appreciation for my body.. I feel elation at the thought of being completely healed again and hey, I’ve learned that i can drive a stick-shift with only one arm! I am, however, just about at the end of my rope with doctors and x-ray technicians (non-responsiveness – maybe there really isn’t an answer to the question WHEN?!? HOW LONG?!) after 5 weeks with a broken collarbone. I’m a 46 year old female -broke my collarbone in a dirt biking accident. I wasn’t going that fast, but WAS subconsciously trying to imitate my much more experienced partner popping wheelies on his motorcycle through mud puddles. For some inexplicable reason, I hit the front brakes in the middle of a mud slick – with a big rut in it- and was thrown like a missile about 3 metres off my bike. I landed on my right side (torn tendons, bruised ribs, foot and hip) but broke the collarbone on my left side. I lay with my face in the dirt, helmet full of mosquitoes, for about a half hour while my boyfriend raced back for the car and trailer (I remember when he reached his hand out to me – ooookay! get up now! AS IF!) I spent 6 hours in emergency (morphine drip!!!), and was sent home with a sling, a prescription for percocet and very few instructions – i.e. how do I get dressed? take a shower? sleep? when can I resume normal activities? After weeks of adapting to things like washing dishes with one arm, playing the piano with one arm (I can just sort of ping the lower keys with my left hand – which is kind of cool), I’ve learned to cope remarkably well, but have been given no information as to when i can take the sling off. I stopped taking pain killers after the first week and the pain has diminished exponentially from week to week. This week – week 5 – I feel ‘almost normal’ and am back in the gym doing low impact aerobics (no problem!! tons of fun and piles of sympathy!!! ) I walk about 5 km every day. I wonder if anyone has an answer to this question. We are planning a camping trip to Arizona, Colorado, Utah (nixed the original dirt biking and/or mountain biking plan) in a few weeks. The last x-ray I had was at 4 weeks and apparently showed ‘no healing’ – which seems crazy because I feel SO much better! Anyway, I won’t have another x-ray until late August, but am going on vacation anyway. If my arm FEELS okay, and I can lift it at least perpendicular to my body, does that mean that I’m almost healed? I can now sleep sort of half rolled onto one side, I can do sit-ups, lunges, squats, walk forever and am relatively pain free. Can I crawl into a tent, hike in the mountains, carry a backpack and do normal camping type stuff? What are the chances after 5 weeks – if I feel okay!and I do – that the bone will break again or I’ll do further damage? Apparently it was a clean (but good) break. I’m scared stiff to re-injure the bone as I’ve heard lots of stories, from well meaning friends, along the lines of ‘well i thought i was fine.. and then boom.. back to square one’
    Any thoughts or suggestions? I’m not sure I could stand the thoughts of another 6-8 weeks with a sling.
    P.S. Tabitha – your husband is lucky. The pain from a broken collarbone is nasty. I will never be able to thank my daughter and boyfriend enough for everything they’ve done for me these last weeks – helping me to undress, take a shower, wash my feet, tie my shoes… You know it’s true love when you ask your boyfriend to please help you pull up your pants and he smiles and says “Of course dear!”

    Reply
  16. Tabitha Avatar
    Tabitha

    Great Website! Two days ago my husband had an accident while riding his ATV, he broke his right clavical, its really bad. He showed up at the front door, and his shoulder was completely compacted into the side of his chest. (he also broke 3 ribs, sprained his neck & concussion) When the doc saw the xray, the first thing he said was “lets get you booked for surgery!” The bone was sticking out of his shoulder, the two pieces seperated & overlapping by a good 2 inches. He’s booked for August 3rd. Right now he’s in the most intense pain ever, and he’s had plenty of broken bones before! He’s drugged up on vicodin and percocets(sp?) He says those are the best. Like some of the others people mentioned, he is getting an occassional sharp stabbing pain in his arm. I really feel for him. Not only has he “lost his arm” but his dignity too! I had to bathe him today.lol For better or for worse, eh? I even had to dress him after his bath. One thing though, I think they gave him the wrong size 8-sling, as its fully tightened, and is still not giving the best support. He’s fairly broad shouldered, and they gave him a large, but I think maybe a med would have been better. They didn’t measure. He hasn’t left the recliner since it happened, thats the only place keeping him in a comfortable position. Well, sorry to ramble, but I thought maybe you all would appreciate a second hand account of what its like. After all, I am doing everything for him-but very gladly. He’d do the same for me! (hopefully he never has to. ) Good luck to you all.

    Reply
  17. Richard Avatar
    Richard

    Hi Hans:
    I phoned up a couple of my local “Medical & Surgical Supply” stores in Edmonton (Canada) and just asked if they had any ‘Figure of Eight slings for a fractured clavicle’. I chose a store close to home. When I went in, they measured the distance from the middle of my scapula down to the armpit while a figure eight sling was hanging over my shoulder – then they chose one model that was the best size for me and even fitted it (I walked out wearing it). (note of interest: infants can get fractured/dislocated clavicles during delivery and will often be outfitted with figure eights – they come that small).
    There are quite a few on line stores listed on the internet selling figure of eights (here is a model similar to the one I purchased: http://www.medmarketplace.com/support,-four-way-clavicle-str-6766.html) – try searching under “Medical Supply” or “clavicle strap” (here’s an example of another one I found: http://www.medsupplyco.com/Products/ProductDetails.cfm?ProductNumber=SCO1582UN&CFID=9304250&CFTOKEN=95782180). The figure 8s (and most other slings) come in various sizes and styles so make sure you read all the info before ordering. Prices range from under ten bucks to over a hundred depending on the bells and whistles, and how long you expect to wear one (comfort/gel straps).
    Good advice about the upper body work. That makes sense, think I’ll wait until I do a follow-up with my doctor before I dive back into my regular fitness routine. (I can hear him lecturing me now – Now if I would only Listen to him).
    Cheers!
    Richard

    Reply
  18. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Carolyn – I don’t have a source for a figure 8 sling. I received mine from my ortho doc. Note that Richard above got one for $25 somewhere. So they aren’t expensive.
    Richard – Did you get your figure 8 online or through your doc? As for maintaining your upper body I would recommend you give it a rest for a couple of weeks while you are healing. It’s very easy to strain your injury and hinder your recovery during this time. And that’s not what you want to do. After a couple of weeks you should be able to start doing some upper body workouts.

    Reply
  19. Richard Avatar
    Richard

    Well done Hans! I’ve found it quite comforting to read everyone’s adventures and how they are healing and building themselves back up. I’m in my forties and an avid cyclist. While commuting to work three days ago I hopped a sidewalk curb onto the pavement while traveling at a good clip. When my front tire came down with my weight above it, my Zoom handlebar snapped completely off on the left side of my bike and I pile drove my left shoulder and body into the pavement (cracked the helmet too). Ouch. I was closer to home than work and walked back home with the bike and got my wife to take me to the hospital for x-rays and a sling. The break is dead center on the clavicle and the bones are overlapping. I did not find the pain too bad and was at work within three hours of the accident. I’ve been wearing the arm sling to bed and this has helped me also to remain sleeping on my back. I’m only taking advil twice a day as well as a multivitamin and about 1000 mgs of calcium. To assist the healing process and align the bones I bought a figure eight sling yesterday ($25) and am going to give that a go until this mends. Keeping my fitness up has been a key concern (four years ago I fractured my femur while cycling and it took me about a year to rebuild from that one). In the meantime I’ll use the gym exercycle daily and will see what I can do with the leg press to maintain my lower body. What did you do to maintain your upper body while you healed?
    Thanks for all the info. Cheers!
    Richard

    Reply
  20. Gord Avatar
    Gord

    Interesting website. My story and suggestions:
    I was just flying down a rather easy trail on my mountain bike when I noticed some black berry bush branches stretched across the trail. I did NOT want to get scratched by thorns, so I made a little dodge. Unfortunately, there seemed to be a lack of trail off to the right. My front wheel disappeared, and I was catapulted to the ground left shoulder and head first. I was sure I had suffered my first bone break at 39, and the next day, the X-ray confirmed a mid-shaft fracture “in good position”. Compared to others here, I don’t think I have had the worst of it — my pain was manageable with Advil, and I never had to use the Tylenol 3s I had. I went to work the next morning.
    I am a fairly serious triathlete, so my main concern is to be able to swim without pain or discomfort.
    The ER doc said I could have a sling if I wanted, but it was up to me. I would heal anyway. A week later, my physio, a swimmer, and another doctor friend, also a swimmer, pretty-well demanded I get into a Clavical Splint. Their rational was that my collar bone would heal in a longer and better position, and that would be better for swimming.
    Both doctors also recommended a homeopathic Prep called “Trameel” with an ingredient called ‘Arnica’. Supposed to help bones heal faster — either that or make money for someone, but I figured it was worth a shot.
    Also — I find the ‘Natural’ Keyboard I have at home is way less uncomfortable than the regular keyboard I have at work.

    Reply
  21. Carolyn Faubert Avatar
    Carolyn Faubert

    Hans,
    Thanks for beginning this site. I Am a 59 yr. old female who broke the right clavicle in a car accident on July 1st, 2005. The recommendations and insights to everyones’ injuries have been both helpful and encouraging. One aspect that I would like to share is that if anyone seems to be having a great deal of trouble trying to get in and out of bed comfortably; try arranging a comfotable chair with support pillows for your elbow, arms and neck and use a comfortable foot stool along with this get-up and sleeping in this situation has worked for me. I have been sleeping like this for two weeks, of course, vicadin has helped a little, too.
    My Orthopedic Dr. recommended a sling and swath; but I felt that my injured shoulder (clavicle) was slouching and he gave me a script for the “figure of eight brace” but I am having a difficult time trying to buy one. Does anyone have a supplier or reference for me to contact?
    Thanks to all for sharing info -single handed typing isn’t easy!!
    Carolyn

    Reply
  22. Tom Avatar
    Tom

    thanks hans,
    just been given my physio exercises – 11 exercises to be done 10 times each every 1-2 hours for the next 10 days!!! i’m currently not able to lift my arm above 90 degrees. not due to pain, just physically impossible… think this could take a while!!
    thanks again for your comments,
    tom

    Reply
  23. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tom – If you are that far along after the break and there’s no healing, then your bones probably won’t reconnect/fuse. I have friends with clavicles that have not reconnected and they are fine. If you are not experiencing pain or problems because of the disconnect then you might be fine leaving it as-is. Listen to your doc(s) and your physical therapist. If they think there’s a problem then act on it.
    Keeping you shoulder still for a long period of time can lead to a frozen socket/shoulder. My doc made sure I moved my shoulder and arm during the time I was healing from my break. But he limited the range and types of movements. Also, the first two weeks are the most critical time for the bones to find themselves and begin healing and reconnecting. That’s not a good time to be moving the shoulder. Bending your elbow is fine though.
    My guess is that actively doing physical therapy is your best bet now. It’s tough but stick with it.

    Reply
  24. Tom Avatar
    Tom

    A relief to find this site!! Im 10 weeks into a lateral third left clavicle fracture. had an xray today and no signs of healing (although this time was a different doctor, who didnt even show me the xray!). My shoulders now freezing up so am having physio – i think by keeping it still so long i may have made the situation worse? Doctor said that cos it isnt painful when he applied pressure to the site i should try and forget its broken (easy for him to say) and do as much as possible. He then said make an appointment for 3 months time!!! There is no way i am waiting another 3 months without any idea of my progress – i got him down to 2 months, but even that seems a long time (Im training to be a vet, so i cant do my work while its like this..).
    Hope you all heal soon,
    Tom

    Reply
  25. David Avatar
    David

    Good to hear others are sharing my pain. I’m 2.5 weeks in from a right clavicle break from mtn biking. Here’s the irony: I’m planning to do a 24 hr mtn bike race labor day weekend to raise money for our local emergency ward. I hope to be healed up by then but it’s not looking likely. Thx for the website H+L.

    Reply
  26. suzanna degazon suzy Avatar
    suzanna degazon suzy

    oh my god you have had me in great pain from laughimg i broke my clavical 7 hours ago in a competition and yes it is definately a two armed world. i am an ultra triathlete and have to travel on 2 planes on tuesday back to puerto rico!!i do ultraman hawaii in november i have done this 7 times now a clavical world for a few weeks, please keep in touch as i would love to have a training program..thank you suzy degazon

    Reply
  27. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Chad – Wearing a figure-8 helps to keep your shoulders in a correct posture. This helps the broken bones mend and aligned for this posture. Without the figure-8, the injured shoulder tends to be pulled forward and in. This may lead to worse alignment when the bones fuse together. I’m not sure how it would help if the bones are so broken that they will not fuse together. But, it is possible for a fibroid connection to form instead. This is fibrous tissue that forms around the broken ends and attempts to hold them together. A connection of this type will not be solid like fused bone, but it will add some strength. So for this case it would also make sense wearing a figure-8.
    I wore a figure-8 and I personally know others that have. All of us have had good recoveries. So I would recommend wearing one, especially during the first week or two, when the body works hardest to fuse the breaks. But, as always, get the opinion of your doctor if it will be a problem.
    Oh, and you should be fully healed by the time your shoot comes along. I was back on my bike and riding in Europe a month after my first break.
    Hans

    Reply
  28. Chad Avatar
    Chad

    I can’t tell you all how great this site has been! I broke my clavical in a July 3rd Jet Skiing incident on Lake Erie in Buffalo, NY. There are three distinct breaks and much bone displacement. I was told originally I would need surgery without a doubt. The P.A. I saw said it was the worst he has ever seen! Went to an Ortho on July 5th and was told no surgery needed. I am only in a sling and I was told (by my Ortho) that a figure 8 would do me no good. (He said it was because of the bone displacement) Any ideas on this? My real question however, is on the healing process. I was back to work on July 6th with some pain but nothing unbearable. I am completely off perscription meds (Lortab) as of July 7th. I have some range of motion but very limited. It is difficult to put on shirts! The pain all along has been very manageable. I am a competitive rifle shooter and have a important shoot (to me anyway!) the last week of September. I am 30 years old. Being right handed and having the break on the right side is the obvious problem! Is there any chance I will be able to compete. I will have had 11 weeks of healing without practice, and 9 weeks if I allow for the average 2 weeks of shooting I would need to prepare. Has anyone out there had any experience with this? The recoil of the rifle is my concearn. Will the calcium actually speed up the healing process? I was told your body needs a specific ammount of time regardless of the ammount of calcium you pump into your body. I am also now curious about the TENS Unit and would love to hear some input on that as well! This site has been so much help and nothing less than a complete inspiration!! Thank you all so much for your stories and advice! I also need to admit that this process is nearly impossible without the love and care of someone close to you! Aimee has done everything short of certain bathroom necessities to make this easier on me and I owe her everything! Love you Aim!

    Reply
  29. Tom C. Avatar
    Tom C.

    I crashed my bike and broke my right clavicle 3 hrs ago. Kaiser was pretty fast (1.5 hrs). No Jack Danial sfor me… Vicaden is the answer. Thanks for the info. on treatment!

    Reply
  30. Joe Avatar
    Joe

    I hit some railroad tracks at a wrong angle and flew off my bike last week. This broke the middle of my right collar bone. Everyone in this form says they are wearing a Figure 8 brace, this is what they gave me, a clavicle splint, same thing?
    http://www.hely-weber.com/product.php?id=83
    They said to wear it constantly for 6 weeks. Is that the same advice as everyone else? I went to work a couple days later and the Clavicle Splint is pretty bulky under my suit. Anyone know of any thinner splints that would work better while wearing a suit?
    I am a week into this thing and doing well. I can dress, type, drive with two hands, comb my hair, etc!. did some interval jogging on the treadmill yesterday. The pain is focused on the break area, and only bothers me when I stretch too far.
    What about a TENS unit? Anyone ever try one? I have one around the house and asked the doctor about using it, he didn’t seem to think there would be any harm in trying it. So I attached the electrodes around broken collar bone. Don’t know if it does any good but the electrical impulses seem soothing.
    http://www.tensunits.com/
    The “theory” is that when the body suffers trauma, the muscles tighten to immobilize the injured area. This muscle tightening impairs circulation to the injury site, which decreases the blood supply to the affected area and diminishes the healing process. TENS therapy is suppose to help stimulate circulation and aid in healing. Since I already had a TENS unit from a previous ailment, I figured I would try it.
    This was 5 days after the accident, so I have only been on this TENS stimulation for two days so it is too early to tell if it is doing any good. However, the pain doesn’t seem to be as sharp and I have a bit more mobility, but this might have been the case anyway with or without the device. Anyone else ever try a tens unit?

    Reply
  31. Justine Avatar
    Justine

    Well, let me just start off by saying that I feel much better after visiting this site and seeing how many of you are in the same boat as I am. Good luck to all of you still healing and I appreciate hearing from those of you who have already recovered because you are an inspiration to me. So last week while playing in a soccer game I was taken out from behind and landed the wrong way, breaking my collar bone. I had never broken a bone before and it was very painful, but the emotional pain was far greater and no pain killer, no matter how strong, could ever take it away. My team and I have been training for 6 months for one of the biggest and most important, not to mention by far the biggest recruiting tournament of the year. I am going into my senior year and coaches from all of the schools I am considering playin for were planning on using this tournament as their deciding factor. So if i played well, things were looking good. I basically just cried and was in a state of depression for the first 3 day. All i kept thinking about were the hours of training, running mile after mile and sprint after sprint, never going out with my friends on friday or saturday nights because I had to wake up at 6 the next morning to drive and hour and a half to practice or to a game. I’m getting better I suppose. I have started riding the bike because I was told that I could and I’m looking to come back strong and just trying to stay positive. My team leaves on Wednesday for the Regional Tournament and I will certianly be there cheering them on. If they win, we will go on to advance to nationals and if all goes well I will be able to play by then! If anyone has any good exercises or healing tips please let me know! Thanks!

    Reply
  32. Conrad Avatar
    Conrad

    I broke my left clavicle last week doing a hard 110 mile bike ride on my Quintana Roo Kilo tri bike. Was only 4 weeks away from my taper for the Full Vineman iron distance triathlon.
    Basically, hit a “pot-hole” at 33 mph which threw me off the aerobars, and the bike. Landed on my left side. Severe rash all along the left side. Very badly bruised left hip; lucky I did not break the pelvis. Also wrecked my helmet. Probably would have died without it.

    Using a figure 8 plus a sling. Pain is not too bad. Except this morning. Because I have gone from extreme physical activity (trained 15-28 hours/week) to basically nothing, I have been getting those severe calve cramps that wake you up and force you to get out of bed to stand and stretch. Well, I forgot about the left collarbone and put full pressure to my left arm to get up out of bed. That hurt!

    My fracture is a middle third, comminuted (a couple extra fragments). Did take some ibuprofen the first couple days.

    Now, just a few glasses of red wine and maybe a couple aspirin before I sleep.

    My season is over. Can’t swim for 12 weeks I figure. Can’t do push-ups for the same I guess. Won’t attempt to ride the trainer until the rash heals up (very bad on the shoulder and hip and knee). Have been walking. Got hurt last Tuesday. Didn’t walk the next day, but every day thereafter. 13 miles thur-Sun. Going to walk every day this week and shoot for 30. I wear the arm sling for addtional support to the figure 8 for this walking. This is keeping me sane. Will plan now for the Las Vegas Marathon December 4th and shoot to go sub 3:30:00. I do better with goals.

    Reply
  33. josh Avatar
    josh

    i broke mine at the state judo tournament, dang my final match of my high school “career”. it sucks so bad, i can run and stuff again but i still can’t do judo cause it’ll break if i fall on it still.

    Reply
  34. Lisa Jones Avatar
    Lisa Jones

    What a help to find this web site. My son of 10, yesterday broke his right clavical. He was playing football,fell,and screaned in pain and proceeded to throw up and become pale and white. We took him to the hospital were they x-rayed him. The bone has completely snapped in half. The pain he is suferring is heartbraking for any Mother to watch. He has been given a figure 8 brace to wear, however he is having trouble keeping a straight alignment. He is taking Ibuprofin to ease the pain but it still seem to be uncomfortable for him. He was due to play in a football tornement on the 21st and 22nd, so for him this is even more upsetting. My concern is that the bones will not join correctly as he keeps leaning to the side of the pain and i keep telling him that he must sit up straight otherwise it will permanently deformed. Is this normal in the first days to have such servere pain. The pressure the brace applies seems to be making him worse and I am suppose to tighten it in 2 days time. There appears to be no sign of bruising or swelling. It is also frustrating for him that he has to keep still, as like most boys at his age, he is normally very active. The Hospital said it should take around 4 weeks to heal but after reading these letters it sounds as though it could be longer. Any suggestion,s to cheer him up would be much appreciated! He can’t even play on the playstation at the moment!

    Reply
  35. Seth Wood in Bettendorf, iowa Avatar
    Seth Wood in Bettendorf, iowa

    It sure is “nice” to hear of other broken clavicals…
    About 10 years ago, I was on my 3 wheeled scooter….and somehow, I fell over sideways on my left arm/should/clavical and proceeded to break my clavical with the end of it protruding up thru the skin, not out just a big hump
    Doctors said, I could get operated on and get back ~ 75% of range of motion…..and being on Medicare it was decided not to be done by doctors for whatever reason…..
    About 3 years prior to that clavical break. I had a severe head injury from a motocycle accident, which made my WHOLE left side (arm and leg) paralyzed-like. I’ve learned to live on my own with that….for those 10 years..
    Then a few days ago, I stumbled and fell on that broken clavical
    Hurt like a ^&^!. So I got it xrayed again, only to show the gap between the break was still the same, only gap was farther apart. being “lucky” to live with this condition 10 years prior
    life for me has changed little for me….I live with that constant ache…..Thank god for Ibuprofin!! lol

    Reply
  36. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tim – Sorry to hear about your crash. Take a quick look at my other ‘collar bone’ entries that are linked at the top of the page. Your break is similar to the one I had but I had a larger gap. I was back on my bike a month later and touring Europe. So a quick recovery is possible.
    The muscle pain you are experiencing may be from bruising, strains, etc. from the accident. But some of it, such as in the opposite muscle on the back, is probably caused by compensation for the damage. The muscles opposite of an injury work to protect the injured site. This leads to muscle fatigue, soreness, tightness, etc.. I’m dealing with that now for a new shoulder injury.
    Hope you heal fast. Let us know how it goes.

    Reply
  37. Bubba Avatar
    Bubba

    Sure is nice to know one is not alone, although this is not a club I would recommend that everyone join.
    May 25th – I went high side dump off my mt. bike and collided with Earth. I don’t think it moved, but my collar bone did.
    I broke it about as far out as you can on the middle third..borderline distal. I think I’m lucky because the gap between the bones is about 1-2mm.
    I am wearing a figure 8 harness, but may use the sling with it. I notice that I get pain in the trap muscle, kneck, pectoral and the opposite muscle on the back. I think the impact transferred to rib cartilige and/or muscles/tendons. I get a lot of muscle aches depending on position. anyone shed some light on this?
    Of course, the timing on this could not be worse. Supposed to be in China now and have postponed for a month. That would be 5 1/2 weeks after the intial break. I got a sling/harness 6 days after breaking it.
    So, I know most are not doctors but seasoned veterans of this injuries, what do y’all think about me travelling 5 1/2 weeks after breaking? I get pic’s of this on Monday to see the progress and understand that is what will dictate my ability to do anything.
    I look forward to all replies and hope everyone that has posted a story about their own break is healing well.
    Best Regards,
    Tim
    38yr old male.

    Reply
  38. Cherie Turner Avatar
    Cherie Turner

    Hi All,
    Broken Clavicle here. almost 3 weeks now. Lots of back pain and shoulder pain that seem to be residual of my bone not healing straight, we will see in a few days w/ follow up xray.
    I want to suggest this brace http://www.shouldersback.net/. It may not be for use the first week, but it is definitely more comfortable than the traditional fig of 8 brace. I recommend it to anyone who has a broken clavicle…and you will look somewhat normal too!

    Reply
  39. Ron Avatar
    Ron

    Hi Hans,

    I was sorry to hear that you undergoing painful physio. I know that all of us with a serious clavicle injury have had more than our share of sharp, nasty pain. In my case calcification has set in and I have take 2 pain killers in 10 days. However there is concern about my injury. I visited my attorney yesterday and he read aloud from several surgeon’s reports. The pieces are out of alignment and I believe that only using pins now will allow them to line up. Also the report mentioned “fibroid” although I did not understand that.

    (Edit – Hans) Fibroid = “Composed of or resembling fibers or fibrous tissue”

    Of course I have been encouraged to use the shoulder a lot and that means that pieces have moved more. There are two fractures so I presume that means 3 pieces although I thought there were 4 pieces. I may have mentioned in a previous letter how similar my injury is to Lyndsey’s and yet how different our treatment has been. She kept her arm in a sling, then had surgery 2 weeks later. It is almost as if there is a “British school” of treating this injury and a “Canadian school”. I phoned an Ortho’s office here to see what the wait time was for an appointment. The nurse in the office said that the surgeon in question simply did not do clavicle surgery.

    I realise that there can be serious problems in inserting a plate.

    1. Then there can be an increase in pain from it.
    2. There is an increased chance of infection and of vascular problems.

    A disconnected clavicle is a unusual injury. My GP and Occupational Therapist had never dealt with it before. Of course a simply clavicle break is much more common and usually much easier to treat.

    I have a 5 lb weight limit for the arm. I just made a fairly heavy casserole. I may have exceeded 5 pounds with the affected arm in putting it into the oven. Oh well. The function of the arm is very good for strength and mobility. I can place the arm normally behind my back and elevate to 65 degrees from the horizontal. In fact use of the arm is almost back to pre-injury level except that I now have a weight restriction. Still I know that a lack of healing in the shoulder cannot be ignored. So we shall see what happens.

    I am interested in knowing how your injury happened. Was it mountain biking down a trail, or was it in the city?

    (Edit – Hans) My recent accident was from a MTB crash.

    On April 4 I was cycling along a boulevard when a car door flung open and I had nowhere to go. It happened so very quickly. I had numerous injuries but all have disappeared except the clavicle injury. The motorist was given a ticket since the liability was clearly hers. As far as the insurance goes there is no question about who is at fault. Still there is a saying “The graveyards and hospitals are filled with people who were in the right in traffic.”

    The woman has my address from the accident report but she has never written to apologize. What a difference! I have to live with this for the rest of my life and she has an increase in her insurance rates. Some difference!

    Obviously I get depressed at times, I would not be human if I did not. Just one small example of the change in lifestyle. I used to occasionally use the Internet terminal at the library. Well I tried it yesterday and found that keyboard is so high up that using it irritated my arm and shoulder. So I won’t use that again. How do you deal with depression?

    (Edit – Hans) I’ve been lucky and haven’t had to deal with it. Maybe others will have suggestions.

    Sometimes I beat up myself for cycling on the streets when I knew that an accident for a cyclist could turn very ugly indeed. I always realised that the lack of protective clothing meant that it would take little for a cyclist to become seriously injured. Now I know that first hand. A few weeks before the accident I had a close call when I made a mistake, got into the wrong lane and was almost destroyed by a double-Decker bus. The incident shook me badly and should have been a wake-up call to understand how deadly is could be to cycle in the city. That losing focus for just a moment could have deadly consequences. However I was too arrogant to reach the logical conclusion. How I have paid for that lack of insight!

    Victoria, BC has a strong culture of cycling. It has the highest percentage of the population who cycle of any Canadian city. The weekly newspaper just had 2 articles about cycling in the city and the government offers its employees inducements to cycle to work. Sadly the motorists are particularly slow witted and unpredictable. Despite this culture there are only a couple of bike pathways for recreation, none which can be used to go from A to B. Some of the streets are dangerously narrow.

    I spoke to a fellow recently who has a wife and baby. He was recounting several close calls he has had. I tried to convince him that it was not fair to his family to keep cycling to work when he could use the bus. For example one day he was cycling in the normal position on the right when a car in front suddenly turned right, leaving him with nowhere to go. His bike slid under the car but he was unhurt. I said “For God’s sake learn from what happened to me! You just have to have one close call that turns tragic to be hurt for life. Think of your family and where they would be if you became disabled.” Of course he did not listen.

    That’s the trouble. Once so many of us get into urban cycling we think that we have experience and that serious injury cannot happen to us. Well, it sure can. Ironically I had been cycling fairly slowly as a safety measure in the weeks before the accident. . However I was going down a gently descending hill and let the hill carry my bike instead of braking. It is amazing how much damage can happen to a cyclist at a fairly slow speed.

    It is strange that there is no protective clothing for cyclists. For example what about wearing a Kevlar vest? Would a vest that protects against bullets also protect against impact in a cycling accident? I am not aware of anyone trying to develop such shock-proof clothing.
    (Edit – Hans) There is gear that is sold for downhill or extreme riding. It’s similar to motocross gear but lighter weight.

    I want to end by thanking you for starting the forum It is a great asset to have a place where one can share experiences and learn more about conditions like disconnected clavicle.
    Finally, I was wearing a good helmet when the accident happened. Even so I had a severe concussion. Without the helmet well…

    Reply
  40. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    It’s official, I’m healing! Four weeks after the crunch heard on the rugby pitch I went back to my doctor, got some x-rays and found that my bones are joining up. He made me lift my arm above my head, something I couldn’t even know I could do without mind altering pain. We also discussed the fact that having a figure 8 splint while out at the bar can lead people on. You stand there, shoulders back, chest out and then when someone tries to hug you, playfully knock into you or something else you freak out and scream, “I have a broken collar bone, don’t touch me!” Not that this happenned to me or anything. Ok, 4 weeks down, 4 weeks to complete recovery. Good luck everyone!

    Reply
  41. Vicky Avatar
    Vicky

    I posted a comment several weeks ago, i’m into week 7 post break now. I’m not having much joy, been to fracture clinic, they didn’t really tell me anything, didn’t even show me the xray they did. The specalist did say that they would still consider grafting and plating for me, but it wasn’t really advisable as there would be scarring and sometimes the plates need taking out.
    Went to GP for second oppinion / explanation to help me understand…. Apparently i have crepising (sure i have spelt that wrong!) in my shoulder, little nodules of bone kinda makes a cracking sound when i move it now… Lucky enough i have two lumps and a ridge where i broke my bone on a diagonal! anyway, my GP referred me to the physio,as i was complaining of aching muscles, they can not do anything about the bone obviously but they can help you feel some relief with muscular aches and pains. My physio said she raely saw people with broken clavicle, only usually when things had gone wrong- often after plating! She did say to help ease an aching shoulder, as well as gentle excerises that they give you, to get someone to rub round your shoulder blade with an ice cube. It does work!

    I still do not have the full range of movement in my shoulder, taking off a jumper still seems to make me look like Houdini. I have a vist to the specalist in 3 weeks, i just want to know now if, the slight pain will alway be there and never go away – in which case i’ll just get on with things- but i don’t want to jepadise any chance i may have of it fixing properly. Watch this space.

    For those wondering how long it takes – well i think that’s an individual case thing. (i know that’s not helpful when you are sat there in week 2 of your break desperate for information) When i went back to work, i found loads of people who wanted to talk to me about their experiences, one who had fixed in 6 weeks and another who took 7 months to heal (a road cyclist who’d broken his collar bone in 3 places and when he felt ready to go back to work got in his car tried to take the hand break off and managed to rebreak his bone!)

    Got back on the horse yesterday, who was responsible for the accident- he seems to have forgotten.

    Reply
  42. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Jan – Don’t let anyone tell you that you are too old to ride or race! Here in Northern California we have many “old” cyclists. But you would never know since many of them can put younger riders to shame.
    I would recommend you get a couple of opinions from doctors you trust. You might also consider seeing a physical therapist that’s familiar with your type of injury. Mine has been more informative about the specifics of my injury that my doctors.
    Also, if you haven’t, read my two other “collar bone” entries (links at the top of the page) and the comments. More good information.
    Take care,
    Hans

    Reply
  43. Jan Avatar
    Jan

    Hi all,

    7 weeks into a broken left collar bone and my doctor tells me there’s not much sign of union – a few white smudges on the ends that should lead to something, he thinks. Well I’m female and 55 and really thought I’d be back cycling and running by now so I’m a bit shat off.

    I broke it April 12th, my fault, doing a really fast cycle in training for the Mooloolaba Triathlon. I figured I’d have a good chance of placing having done the full 1.5k swim, 40k cycle and 10 k run in under 3 hours at my first attempt one month previously. Anyway, 6.30am and dark, and I’m out on my bike. There’s supposed to be no body else on this road at that time of the morning but there was another woman cyclist completely within her rights, zooming down the hill into the roundabout that i was also zooming in to. Except I didn’t see her because of the trees until the last minute. I wobbled my way around her, hit the gutter on the other side and bang on to muddy grass ( it rained the night before) on to the point of my shoulder. Thank God I didn’t hit the bitumen. Having acres of skin peel off is not fun – been there done that. I knew when I hit there was somethng wrong with my shoulder. From having no one on the streets, all of a sudden people appeared from everywhere with mobile phone. My daughter freaked out when I rang her to come and collect me. I insisted my new Giant bike be put in the car first, giving instructions through muffled pain to all the bystanders as to how to dismantle the two wheels. then off to the hospital. Do you want pain relief love?? No thanks, I’d just seen my mother die in a state of morphine induced euphoria, and didn’t want to pass out completely – too much to do that day. Well we’ll have to cut that shirt off you to take an exray. No way hosay. That’s my best and most favourite cycling shirt. 10 minutes and 10 tonnes of pain later, my daughter wound the shirt off my back in one piece.

    The xray showed a complete break in the distal third with overlapping of about 1 cm. Here’s a collar and cuff and a prescription for panadeine forte and off you go. See you in 6 weeks. One tablet of panadeine forte later and I was off with the faries – so i started on Nurofen – and then eventually after a few weeks to just basic paracetamol every few days when the pain got real bad. I threw the collar and cuff on the first day – the weight around my neck caused worse pain and I developed a technique to wear a tight singlet and walk around clutching the opposite shoulder strap with my arm. This made me look normal when i went shopping and also was a lot less painful. Then I needed to get back to doing some exercise before I went bananas. Walking was OK but after 1km, my shoulder ached. So I tried the stationary bike at the gym where I could rest my arm on the bars.

    Well I can tell you sitting on a stationary bike at the gym everday for 6 weeks is no fun. At least I’m up with all the latest video clips and know all the songs of Delta Goodrem and Bachelor Girl that my kids play. The pain went from be excruciating when I moved over the first 3 weeks, to almost better, and then for the last 3 weeks i now have this this chronic ache.

    I really don’t want an operation and I’m prepared to wait a little longer for the break to heal by itself. But my husband and i have booked this trekking tour around Mont Blanc and in Peru in 4 weeks time. And I’m definitely going – broken collar bone or not. I’ve re designed a back pack and will take loads of paracetamol, But I’m going.

    Would like to hear from anyone my age – 55 – oh dear (maybe someone’s trying to tell me I ‘m too old to be out racing cycles) who’s had a broken collar bone and how long it took to heal – with or without and operation.

    Jan

    Reply
  44. Zach Powers Avatar
    Zach Powers

    I was riding a week ago in the rain when I hit a set of train tracks at the wrong angle and ate the asphalt pretty hard. Got up swearing and clutching my shoulder, it was intensely painful but I thought I had dislocated it or something. Got X-rays that showed I had broken my left clavicle in 2 places. The ER doc (general practitioner) put me in a figure 8 and told me to keep my shoulders back because that would help the bones align properly. 6 days later I went to see an ortho doc and he told me that I could stop wearing the figure 8, that it was really only for my own comfort. When I related what the ER doc had said he smiled and said “nah, that’s just witch-craft”. I was confused but he continued that there was really no way to imobilize the clavicle and that it would heal up fine on it’s own. He basically said that pain would keep me from doing anything that I shouldn’t be doing. I have gotten a lot of mobility in the last 7 days and and am able to wash my face with both hands! However, the right armpit is still just out of reach, thus, the pit of dispair… (Rodents of Unusual Size? I don’t beleive they exist! – sorry, the obvious Princess Bride reference had to be made)
    The real crappy part of the whole situation is that I have been training for the last 8 months , and raised $2500, for a 600 mile, 7 day charity ride from San Francisco to LA which is happening in another week and a half. I am debating whether 2 1/2 weeks of healing is enough time to get back on the bike. Doctors have told me not to, but I would be so bummed to miss the ride after all this preperation. I am considering borrowing a recumbent from a friend and riding that. However, I would feel really stupid if I fell and hurt it again. So Frustrating!
    -Zach

    Reply
  45. Bala Avatar
    Bala

    Few things I would like to add to my post earlier. Since I broke my clavicle I have been examined by three doctors. The first doctor (Orthopod) put just the figure-of-8 brace and said I am good enough to travel 400KMs by rail. The next morning I went to another doctor, one more x-ray and he said I need a arm-pouch (sling) ALONG WITH the figure-of-8 bandage. He put some cotton padding below the figure-of-8 bandage to avoid blisters. It is month of April and I am in India where temperatures reach upto 40 degC. The figure-of-8 became too uncomfortable for the sweat and grime and I took it off in a fit of frustration and went to another doctor.
    This gentleman opined that figure-of-8 has been discarded ’15 years ago’ as a therapy and the doctor who prescribed it must be out of his wits. He said I should keep JUST the sling and the clavicle should heal on its own.
    I am into the fifth week and my left shoulder is noticeably shorter than my right shoulder. Don’t know if getting rid of figure-of-8 was a right thing to do.
    I would like to know what others think of Sling Vs. Figure-Of-8
    — Jaha

    Reply
  46. Bala Avatar
    Bala

    Really nice blog to comfort me and my broken clavicle. I wish I had stumbled upon this site in the first week after I broke the bone !!! Thanks Laura for sharing your experience, and what a marvelous way to share 🙂
    I was traveling in a bus and one of the rear tyres of the bus came off !!!! The bus overturned completely and the first thing I remember was waking up to blood trickling from somewhere near to my left ear. It so happened that the cartilege of my left ear was torn, probably because I fell on shards of broken glass, and was dangling from the rest of the ear. But the piercing pain in my left shoulder took my attention off the blood and the dangling cartilege.
    I had a middle 1/3rd clavicle fracture with the bone breaking into 2 clean pieces. Fortunately the dislocation was moderate without any damage to the nerves.
    I am into my 5th week already and healing slowly. The healing was real fast in the first three weeks. However since the last two weeks there isn’t much progress. I am off pain killers and waiting for the day when I will be able shampoo the left side of my head !!
    — Jaha

    Reply
  47. Tim Avatar
    Tim

    Glad to find this site! I’m on week 3 since breaking my right collarbone in two places during judo training. Fortunately it looks like all the pieces are still neatly lined up end to end, albeit with a bit of a zig-zag. The doctor said I could have it pinned and plated to hold it in place but that it was only for cosmetic reasons. I turned him down on that to avoid unneccessary surgery. Everything seems to be sticking back together on it’s own like he promised, so i’m just playing the waiting game now!
    Thanks everyone for loads of information, I was amazed at just how similar an experience this is for many of us! And yes, I’d like to thank ibuprofen, button up shirts, hot showers and daytime tv.

    Reply
  48. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Ron – I think the difference between others and yourself is that you are scheduled for surgery. And the surgery won’t be for at least 6 months. Having a shoulder immobilized for a long period of time can lead to a frozen shoulder:

    Frozen Shoulder @ About.com

    This condition can require a long recovery time with lots of therapy. For those with “simple” calvicle breaks, immobilizing is necessary during the time while the bones need to fuse. But I recall that my doctor had me taking my arm out of the sling several times a day to flex the arm at the elbow. Your docs recommending that you keep the arm and shoulder moving then makes sense. You mention having to do exercises but don’t mention the type. Are they simple exercises? Probably to help to keep from getting a frozen shoulder and your muscles atrophying.

    So I think you should follow the advice of your GP, surgeon and occupational Therapist. That’s three people giving the same advice and they are specialists.

    Hans

    P.s. If possible, post a comment on the site with an update on how it goes.

    P.p.s. Don’t let yourself get a frozen shoulder. I’m dealing with a shoulder injury at the moment and have gotten a case of it. It’s no fun and worse than my broken collar bone.

    Reply
  49. Ron Avatar
    Ron

    On April 4/05 my clavicle was severely damaged in a cycling accident. There are now 4 pieces of the clavicle. The end piece is jagged and presses against the shoulder causing considerable pain. Since my accident my GP, surgeon and ccupational Therapist all have told me to not wear a sling. In fact they have been vehement about it. Yet I notice on the postings that many who have suffered clavicle breaks have been told to use a sling and keep the shoulder as still as possible.

    Obviously what I have been told is exactly the opposite. Surgery had been ruled out until at least 6 months have passed since the accident.

    I realise the immobilising the clavicle by wearing a sling gives the broken pieces of the clavicle a chance to fuse together whereas constantly moving the shoulder gives it no chance to do so.

    What do you think of the two extremes, one of doing shoulder exercises every day and never wearing a sling, and the other of keep the shoulder as immobilised as possible?

    And comments would be welcome.

    Ron

    Reply
  50. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    Let me first publicly thank the gods of vicadin- for they have allowed me to sleep every night for the past 2 weeks relatively pain free.

    About 2 weeks ago I was tackled from behind while playing rugby. I showed up at the ER and assured the nurse that on a scale of 1-10 the pain I was experiencing was most definitely an 8 or a 9 and was ushered to the front of the line. A sling, 2 percasets (spelling?) a prescription for vicadin, a box of tissues and two hours later I was a free woman.

    I spent the first few days in bed, afraid of moving a centimeter in any direction for you all know the pains that would ensue. I watched far too much reality tv, did not shower and cried a lot. Then magically, about 5 days later it became easier to get out of bed and gasp, even shower! I felt better and better until I went to my orthopedist and he explained my x-rays in greater detail and told me that I broke my clavicle in 3 places. He then introduced me to my new best friend, my figure 8. With instructions to always stand, sit, and sleep like a marine I walked out with a new definition of good posture and 4 weeks of bonding with my new friend to look forward to.

    Yes, breaking your clavicle is a horrible, painful thing to happen but I think it gives you a deeper appreciation for some of the simple things in live:

    • Spray deodorant
    • Button up shirts (but not button fly jeans- avoid those at all costs)
    • Pillows- as many propped up as possible. Designate your comfortable sitting areas in your home and make sure that no one removes a single pillow.
    • Vicadin and motrin- try not to miss a scheduled dose.

    Finally, I did some reseach online and I’m sure most of you know the importance of getting plenty of calcium, but don’t forget your multivitamin and vitamin c. IF anyone has any other tips for vitamins and minerals to take please share! Happy healing everyone!

    Reply
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