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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. cherie Avatar
    cherie

    Hi,
    I’m 35 and I broke my left clavicle mid third back in May in a fall from my horse (does any one else know that Madonna broke hers a few weeks ago in a fall!). Anyway, it will be about 17 weeks or so. I had physical therapy from week 7 through week 12, which helped in getting rid of all the pain and I thought all was well. Well, last week my shoulder started bothering me again, but not at the break site…it felt like my shoulder was dislocating. So I called my PT, he said the outer third of my clavicle healed at a twisted angle, which has changed the whole dynamics of my shoulder. It healed this way because of overlapping at the union site. My clavicle is pulling my scapula forward, and this is causing my humerus bone to stretch on the tendon the holds it in place…and that it was “popping out” YIKES…he said it was a good thing I came back. I am back seeing him once a week, doing specific exercises to strenthen my shoulder so that it accepts the new “dynamics” of the bones. He also mobilizes the joint to move in the proper range of motion, which feels very good.
    The good thing is there is not much pain, just discomfort. My break site lump is actually bigger than before (I was told that increased activity early on would cause this, but that the size would go down over the years). Although I have full range of motion, I am still uncomfortable lifting anything heavy, as well as wearing my seat belt, as it lays on my break site, but I still wear it of course. I still can’t sleep on my side.
    I just want to say I empathize for all of you. Breaking a collar bone is very serious, but our Dr’s usually say “it will heal on its own, here’s some darvocet”. I know how painful and disabiling it is. Its just awful. Time will heal your break and you will feel better soon. Get in to physical therapy as soon as you can so that you can start retraining your chest muscles to work again, and to strengthen your shoulder.
    I have posted here before, and each time I recommend the shoulder’s back device…it is MUCH more comfortable the the fig of 8. http://www.shouldersback.net
    Hoping weeks pass quickly for all of you!

    Reply
  2. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    I posted a while back but thought I’d update as a few are thinking of surgery. I’m a 30 year old male BTW.
    I broke the left clavical on the end third playing soccer at the beginning of August (I’m now post 7 weeks). I went to A&E on the Saturday of the accident where they x-rayed and referred me to an orthopeadic surgeon on Thursday. The problem was that apart from the main bone pointing up, then tendon connecting to it’s underside had come off so was not pulling it back in to place with sufficient force, thus the bone wouldn’t heal that great. He gave me two options –
    Option 1 was to let it heal naturally and be left with a bump. If this didn’t heal well then I would need surgery where they would take bone from the hip to sort it out.
    Option 2 was to have surgery straight away.
    I went with option 2. I had surgery the following Monday (9 days after the break) and had a screw put through the collar bone and in to the top of the shoulder blade where it rolls over the top of the shoulder (see http://www.flickr.com/photos/nadiapriestley/32544859/ for the x-ray just after the operation). Hurt for a couple of days but nothing unbearable. 2 weeks of keeping the shoulder absolutely still was tedious but it had to be done.
    Anyway… yesterday was my 2nd follow-up with the surgeon, now being 5.5 weeks post op. It has healed incredibly well, solid, no bump and I start 90% full movement of the arm from now onwards. I still have to have the screw taken out but this is a minor procedure. The whole the screw leaves will take approx 3-4 months to completely fill up but after that it’s as good as new.
    So, my view is that if you are offered surgery by a proper shoulder orthopeadic surgeon then take the opportunity.

    Reply
  3. Josh Avatar
    Josh

    Hi all,
    Lots of familiar sounding stories here. I broke my left clavicle after getting hit by a car while out running September 1. The fracture is on the outside third, and looked more displaced when x-rayed 6 days later. Both the first and second opinions I got from othopedic surgeons was that surgery was an option, but many people live with the mis-alignment without any symptoms. It’s also possible the bones will unite down the road, although I was told I’d still probably have a bump. Because the bone fragment connected to my shoulder is in several pieces, they said the surgery could be complicated and there is no guarantee of good results.
    I’ve decided to wait it out and hope for the best. Running is my main hobby, so I’m not as about the impact on heavy lifting or getting banged around.
    I’m wearing the figure 8 brace. It doesn’t feel like it’s helping, but who knows. Hopefully I can start riding a stationary bike and running again soon.
    Here’s to speedy recoveries for all, and I look forward to hearing peoples experiences.

    Reply
  4. Dee Avatar
    Dee

    My son is 12 and broke his left wrist and right collarbone on May 21, 2005 in an accident on his bike. We thought all was fine, until he just started running track for school. He’s having alot of pain in his shoulder while running, or playing sports. He actually finished his last 1/2 mile holding his shoulder yesterday (and managed to come in 5th place out of about 40 other boys). He has x-rays today and sees the dr tomorrow. I’m rather nervous now, hearing about others have become displaced after weeks of good x-rays. It’s almost 17 weeks post and he’s only 12 though, so I’m trying to think with the “kids heal faster and better” mentality.

    Reply
  5. Nathan Stewart Avatar
    Nathan Stewart

    Hello All,
    Great to read all the similar stories and very educational I might add. I think THIS is going to kill me…sitting still and all.
    I broke my lt collar bone on the outside 1/3rd in a Downhill Mtn bike crash at Whistler, Sept 2 ’05 – Dirt Merchant…Was a little to hot over a table and missed the transition…bottomed the bike out and then got tossed forward.
    I was given the sling treatment by the docs so far, but after doing some much needed research on company time (Work / life balance ‘eh)I have decided to get a figure 8 brace to try it out…Friends tell me they will keep the bone alligned better to aid fusion of the bones.
    I have an appt w/ an orth surgeon in 5 days, but I want to have this heal naturally so I will exhaust my options.
    BTW, I’m signed up for Ironman Canada next year, with the goal of getting a spot for Kona, so I gotta get training…AAAAHHHHH !!!
    Things to remember, docs and surgeons are authorities on these fractures but tnot experts…that is why a forum such a s this is sooo good to learn about best practices which will help us out in the long run !!
    Peace and heal well !

    Reply
  6. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    Mike – We are in the same boat – but I’m 12 weeks into it now. Broken left clavicle due to a motorcycle accident – I’m 46 too, but female. In my case the bones were not overlapping at first, but are now. I haven’t even been referred to an orthopedic surgeon (family doctor has to refer me – hasn’t yet- will she? guess I’ll find out at my next appointment on Monday) I would love to hear the answer to this question too. At this point, I have near constant pain in my left arm – it radiates from my shoulder down my arm – but this has only become an issue since I returned to work last Monday. I stand all day; I’m a teacher. Seems a lot of people are told to just let it heal on its own. My question is, is it possible for bones to still fuse together when they are displaced? If so, is the healing process more painful? I would be happy to go without the surgery if I thought that eventually the bones would fuse on their own and the pain would go away. So ditto for me…any info on surgery and displaced bones?

    Reply
  7. Mike Avatar
    Mike

    I am a 46 year old male recently involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in a broken left clavical. The bone is broken approx. mid clavical and is an over lapping break which is pushing the top portion of the bone outward resulting in a large lump from the end of the bone protruding. I was shipped to ER by ambulance and treated. I was refered to an orthopedic surgeon the next day, who said I should have surgery and a plate installed due to my line of work (HD mechanic)which involves heavy lifting and heavy work. He also said 90% of clavicle breaks can be left to heal on their own, but felt I should have surgery due to the type of break. I was not able to have surgery for appox. 1 week so I decided to travel home and have my family doctor and a local orthopedic doctor look at it. They looked at the initial x-ray that was taken, and feel it should be left to heal on its own. He had me wear a figure of 8 sling along with a arm sling. It has now been just over 1 week and the over lapping bone still doesn’t look very good. I am seriously thinking about the surgery. Any complications that might result from surgery and plating ???? The surgeon says it is a simple procedure! I am confused, but to me the surgery seems to make more sense than letting it heal and having surgery done later. Any one else have surgery and plates?

    Reply
  8. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    cjordan – when i read your original post, my jaw just dropped…i can only imagine your pain. Hope you get use of one of your arms soon.

    Reply
  9. Derry Avatar
    Derry

    Hi all – Its great comfort to read all the comments of those in a similar situation to myself. Just writing a quick note to share my experiences. I broke my clavicle about 10 months ago in a rugby tackle – the xray showed a very large displacement – the doctor in the ER recommended a figure of 8 and to come back in three weeks to see a specialist. After coming back in three weeks the orthopedic surgeon re-xrayed the shouldered and told me that the bones were too far apart to fuse properly; as Hans has explained in other posts I explained to him I was very keen to get back into the rugby again and that I led a very active lifestyle (golf, water sports, rugby, soccer)etc. Based on this information he advised me to go for the operation as the natural healing process might not allow me to fully participate in my sports – due to the bone never joining properly. I had the operation which was a success and resumed my rugby playing et al. The surgeon did warn me there was a slight risk of a rebreak on the clavicle from a fall, where the bone will try and flex on impact and the plate remaining ridgid thus causing the bone to break at the end point of the plate. Guess what thats exactly what happened and I find myself back in the same situation as last november. I am currently awaiting a operation for Thursday to have the old plate removed and new one put in. Hey c’est la vie, the only problem is my wife is insisting I give up the rugby now and I can’t say I blame her as she is the one who has to act as Florence Nightingale during my “rugby accidents” which she does a great job of btw, but I dont know if I’m ready to pack in the rugby yet. Anyway god bless ye all and a speedy recovery to all those in healing 😉

    Reply
  10. Renee Avatar
    Renee

    Hey everyone. Wanted to give you all an update. I went to see a very well known orthopedic surgeon today for my 8-week follow-up. The x-ray showed no improvement of the clavicle. (I have a 2

    Reply
  11. Renee Avatar
    Renee

    Cjordan, I have been released to return to work today. (See my next posting). My doctor had NO problem with me returning to work right from the start it was the school liability insurance that kept me from working until I got a full release. Everyone here is lawsuit crazy and the school did not want to take the chance.

    Reply
  12. cjordan Avatar
    cjordan

    Renee, I am surprised your doctor won’t give you a release to
    go back to teaching! I was not fully recovered from having a left side broken clavicle AND scapula when I stumbled and broke the right clavicle. The emergency room doctor saw no reason why I shouldn’t go back to work in two days! Well I tried and I was in such pain, besides not really being able to use either arm, that my principal told me to take sick leave for a week. So I’ll be back next Monday.

    Reply
  13. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    Hey Ben, 18 years old and riding mountain bikes 6 weeks post break.. sick with jealousy I am!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My 19 year old daughter had a bike accident this summer (stitches etc) and was riding again one week later.
    Thanks for the words of encouragement Hans – went back to work today for the first time in 12 weeks (teaching) It was tough standing all day supporting the arm, still sling bound and the pain was near constant (that old ache), but the distraction made it tolerable. More x-rays this week – and i hope to get an appt with an ortho surgeon soon. So far my family doctor hasn’t recommended one and that is my big problem. We have OHIP (health care is free) but have to get a doctor’s referral to see a specialist.
    ah well… work at least lifted the spirits somewhat – got lots of sympathy and help from students carrying books etc. – can’t be all bad when you get the sympathy-book-carrying thing happening!
    Blair – it’s a 450 – my boyfriend’s KTM – sweet bike. I have a Suzuki DRZ but sometimes ride the old TL – I love that old bike. I used to ride the 250 XR but fell a few times and couldn’t get the bike off of me, so have opted for easier to handle. The little Suzuki goes alright too.

    Reply
  14. Blair Guinea Avatar
    Blair Guinea

    Ben
    so envious of you,
    take it easy going back so soon man !
    Hans thanks for the site
    cheers Blair

    Reply
  15. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Ben – Welcome to the busted collar bone club. I was lucky to never have a major injury when I raced DH. Beat the heck out of myself but nothing busted. As for healing in such a short time… of course, because you’re 18!!! Yup, you have the luck of being young. That’s when to bust ’em.
    As for racing so soon… well, you know the risk. I would recommend taping up the shoulder beforehand. Make sure to give it plenty of support in case something does happen. And I hope you have a good set of armor. My old Dainese suit saved plenty of skin and problem some bones.
    Good luck racing!

    Reply
  16. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Tracie – Sorry to hear the bone is not healing. It’s possible that time will allow it to heal. Sadly for those of us that aren’t kids the healing process can take longer. Women can also take longer to heal than men.
    You didn’t mention if your doctor is a orthopedic doc. If not then I highly recommend that you find a good orthopedic doctor to evaluate your shoulder. It’s also important to be up front with the doctor about your expectations and the activites you like to do. This will help the doctor determine the best route. I mention this because some doctors don’t seem to understand the needs of athletes or those that use their arms and shoulders for specific activities. It might be fine for some (e.g. in-active people) to go on with a mal-union or the bones fusing together at a shorter length, but that won’t do for others.
    Be strong and be confident in how you want to heal.

    Reply
  17. Ben Avatar
    Ben

    Im 18 and broke my collarbone into 3 pieces during a downhill mountianbike race about 6 weeks ago and believe it or not ive been riding again since last week. i dont feel any pain in my shoulder while riding. Even the doctor has allowed to cycle again..as next week i have another dh race. i jsut cant afford to fall onto it again at the moment
    ben

    Reply
  18. Blair Guinea Avatar
    Blair Guinea

    ktm 450 or 510 {nice thumper}
    Traci,
    sure you feel that way but my sling is still on @ 7 weeks, well should b, but i just hold my arm close and try to keep my hole arm as immobile as possible.
    i read earlier this morning a guy had a ‘mal-union’ @ 16 weeks, but generally is accompanied with a great
    pain, so with that fact because i only have slight pain intermitantly and i do feel a relative ‘mal-union’on the fracture site i should be improving ?????.
    hope this accounts 4 u 2…………
    do not get down, remain hopeful……..and chill out
    cheers blair
    ps i know the old tl’s 2

    Reply
  19. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    Blair – my boyfriend asked me 2 days ago if I didn’t think I should sell my bike because this is so bad… I almost slugged him. He’s got a big KTM (along with a couple of Hondas- XR/XL.. even an old TL) – and has never had an accident. He’s 46 too.
    I guess he’s just A BETTER RIDER THAN I AM! I’m becoming a misery to be around… depression is setting in despite my desperate attempts to keep it at bay . It’s really tough finding ways to have fun with one arm, when ‘fun’ used to be dirt biking, mountain biking, skiing, swimming, back-packing.
    Who would have thought I would still be wearing a sling at 12 weeks ????

    Reply
  20. Blair Guinea Avatar
    Blair Guinea

    Hey everybody….
    {from new zealand n medical treatment is free}
    {100 % distal third fracture clavicle left shoulder}
    thanks for the info and words of confidence !
    i am 46 and fell off my motorcycle dirt biking coming up to 7 weeks ………first week after crash, x ray n doc said, in 2 weeks take off figure 8 brace and begin slight movement, i did so…….fine so far but last x ray 1 week ago, another doc said NO MOVEMENT ! and another 4 weeks off work after a final x ray then…….and if more muscle tissue is apparent, more thab bone tissue/callus, then they will operate and put metal in my arm.
    SHIT ! my argument if that were the case {which i 100% hope it isn’t} why not do this in the begining !!!!!!
    my suffering people we need more help and guidance !!!!!!!!, as it seems our recovery is such a hit and miss affair and at the end of the day, you get so pissed off being SO LAZY particulally when i am so healthy and fit !!!!
    damn i miss riding my XL 250 HONDA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    anyway, my arm feels ok, and for the 9 millinth time feeling for the callus which is obviously there but still feel a fraction of broken bone {moving independantly} maybe its my imagination……………..because i am so damned fed up !!!!
    i suppose we have to look at this phyilisophically ??? as really we have to rely on ‘mother nature’ to do his or her shit
    and be happy we can spend endless hours on pc games or reading or if you have it, being bored,,,,,,,,DAMN !
    ok thanks n girls, be interested what u say n traci do not loose hope, you’ll be back on ya trail bike soon !
    shit my wife wants me to sell my bike, YEAH RIGHT !!!
    take it easy ya’ll……..you got to and have no option
    be happy………….cheers blair

    Reply
  21. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    p.s. Hans – re: your comment weeks ago about using the figure 8 sling? I am kicking myself that I didn’t insist on getting one from my doctor. Doctors are hard to come by here these days and it’s like we have to be grateful to even have one. i didn’t argue with mine, did NOT pursue the figure 8 issue and look at me now!

    Reply
  22. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    Just back from physio – the guy got my x-ray reports (I’m at 12 weeks now) and said that the first x-ray showed that the break was a good one, but clean – bones almost touching apparently. Next x-ray at 4 or 5 weeks showed the same thing but no healing. I found out today (not from my doctor, but from the physio guy) that the last x-ray – done at 10 weeks – shows ‘displacement’ of the bones. My arm has started to hurt recently and the bone, which used to lie flat, now seems to be jutting up… apparently on top of the other one. He said I’ll have to see an orthopaedic surgeon, who will probably have to reset the bone and/or give me a figure 8 sling to wear. Has this happened to anyone? I’m so fed up… I was good – everything was perfect – but now it’s all displaced. i can’t recall having done anything to knock the bone out of alignment… maybe slouching too much?
    What does anyone know about surgery in a case like this? What would they do? Is it always necessary? Can the bone still heal or connect if it’s become displaced??

    Reply
  23. Renee Avatar
    Renee

    Terry – thank you SO much for your reponse! I was hoping someone would say something like that and put my mind at ease. My doc. said if all was OK I wouldn’t need therapy but I will wait and see…I want the same quality of life I had before. I ran off all the exercizes I found from a link someone had posted way back in the forum. The x-ray will tell on Monday. It really does just feel like it is really weak from not being used in so long. Thanks again, I will keep everyone posted as to what happens on Monday.

    Reply
  24. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Renee – I stopped wearing my figure 8 brace after 7 weeks and my shoulder was quite sore and painful. I think its the muscles trying to awaken after not being used for such a long time. Each day that goes by gets a little better and with physio it is helping a lot.

    Reply
  25. Paul H. Avatar
    Paul H.

    Hello all, fun site! I broke my right collar bone back on August 8th. I was rising my bicycle and hit a pot hole. The ER put me in a sling and sent me one my way. The x-rays looked good, broken but still some contact. My two week follow up with the ortho showed that the bones had moved apart. My guess is after the swellingwent down, things shifted. The added a figure 8 harness to my sling. Two weeks later and it is getting better. Today I’m strting week 4 with the sling/harness combo. No pain, just clicking/popping at the bone if I move.
    The doc was optimistic. He thinks after my check on the 29th f sept I can go down to using just a sling or harness alone for 2 more weeks. It will be 10 weeks when it is all said and done.
    I had broken the same collar bone as a kid (age 10 and 12). It healed in 4 weeks using just a figure 8. My recent research indicated that since I’m 30 now. the bone is calcified and will heal slowly. Under age 20, the collar bone is mostly cartiledge and heals fast. Oh the joys of growing old.
    One question for all of you out there. Any lingering side effects of the break? I have had a tough time swallowing since the accident. It actually moves the bone when I swallow! Any clues? My research indicated a ton of possibilities from muscles to sternum injuries. When I mentioned it to the ortho doc he just said it could be muscles and left it at that. I guess I’ll wait until the 29th to quiz him again!
    Thanks for the stories. Its eerily comforting to know that I’m now alone. The world keeps moving and you seem to stop. I’m very impressed be those of you able to carry on normal lives (riding bikes!) after such a short time. Hopfully the doc will clear me to in 3 weeks!
    — Paul H

    Reply
  26. Renee Avatar
    Renee

    I want to know if anyone out there had a hard time of adjusting after getting rid of the figure 8 strap. My doctor wants me out of it completely by Monday. (My next appointment.) My shoulder has been hurting since removing it (not alot – just lightly throbbing or pressure) and I get a dull lightning bolt pain running down right in front of my back shoulder blade. My shoulder has been popping and catches and crackes occationally. Can anyone tell me if this is normal after wearing a splint for 8 weeks? I really need to get back to work and I have been told I must have a full release from doctors care order before they will let me come back. I am a sustitute teacher. Thanks everyone!

    Reply
  27. Tracie Avatar
    Tracie

    Here’s a sorry update. Week 12 and I have non-union of the bone. My arm aches about 50% of the time, especially at night. I return to work next week (teaching) and was told to keep my sling on!!! at 12 weeks! (I’d stopped wearing it several weeks ago) so i wouldn’t be tempted to use my arm. Any similar experiences? A nice add on to my situation is that I’ve recently discovered that my TMJ (in the jaw) has become dislodged or damaged – most likely due to the impact of my accident back on June 18th, but possibly from popping my ears so much driving through the Colorado Rockies. I had expected to be back to normal by now… far from it. This really sucks.

    Reply
  28. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Kelly – Tingling is one of the symptoms of a broken collar bone. In some cases it’s an indication of a nerve being pinched or hindered. Be sure to mention it when you see your doctor. You can also cause numbness or tingling by wearing your sling incorrectly. Make sure it’s not too tight.
    Good luck and glad to hear to wore your helmet!

    Reply
  29. Kelly Avatar
    Kelly

    First, this forum is awesome. It’s very comforting to see that my aches and pains are normal.
    I broke my right clavicle two weeks ago tomorrow while mountain biking. I was actually on a local BMX course that just consists of nothing but steep jumps. Yeah, I’m an idiot. I hit a jump too fast, flipped upside down, and landed on my head/shoulder. My helmet, which is stronger than a human skull, was cracked in seven places! Without that helmet, I’d be dead. Soooo, even with all the pain (which is intense), I am thrilled that I’m not dead or paralyzed.
    I think my range of motion is progressing OK. I’m not using the sling, which I hate anyway. The main source of pain is the constant throbbing in my arm muscles. At this point, my shoulder only hurts when I move it awkwardly or try to push or pull with it.
    One question: since my break started fusing a week ago, I have experienced constant, low-level tingling in the tip of my right thumb. Anyone else have this problem? I see the doc next week for a follow up x-ray so I’ll see what he says about it. That’s the only symptom I have that I didn’t see mentioned above.
    Again, thanks for the forum.

    Reply
  30. cjordan Avatar
    cjordan

    Sept. 8 Candace
    June 14 my husband and I were riding our tandem bike when the front tire blew. The front of the bike jack-knifed and I was thrown off the bike; the next thing I knew I was on the side of the rode awaiting a ride to the ER. At our local hospital it was determined I’d broken both the left clavicle and the left scapula (shoulder blade) and would probably need surgery so I was sent by ambulance to Mayo Clinic. After several more hours of xrays and MRIs I was kept overnight and the following day they decided I didn’t need surgery afterall. The orthopedic doctor said this injury was an 8 on a scale of 1 to 10. And it was absolutely horrible! I spent the long hot summer in a shoulder immobilizer; being left-handed it was doubly hard. After 10 weeks I was in therapy, just using a sling, and starting to feel better. I’d learned to do many things with just my right hand. I felt really like I was going to be back to normal just in time for my teaching job to begin. The first day back with the kids I felt great- I realized I could brush my hair and teeth with my left hand! I’d learned to right pretty well with my right hand! On the way to bringing the kids to the bus, they decided to play a little hopscotch and I felt so good I joined in. Foolish woman! I tripped on my sandel, went right down and knew immediately I’d broken my right clavicle! Which the trip to the ER confirmed. So talk about depression! It’s been a week and I don’t have full use of either hand plus a lot of pain. I tried to go back to work today, but it’s just not possible because of the pain and there’s so many things I can’t do. Maybe in another week. I’m using the figure 8 which I couldn’t do with the first injury because of the broken scapula. I guess it’s a lesson in patience. That’s really the only thing I can take away from it. One week down and maybe I’ll feel good again in another three.

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  31. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    JLB – I can’t answer about helping the nerves adapt. A physical therapist might provide some help with that. But here’s a possible solution for using a backpack. You could modify the strap so that it’s split in the middle so that the two sides go around the lump. Purchase a spare strap for your pack and try modifying that. Oh, and don’t even think about not wearing your seatbelt! :’)

    Reply
  32. JLB Avatar
    JLB

    Thanks Hans! About my lump! I have some prominent points: Top, middle and bottom (compound fracture). Although the bone is healing well these points are stimulating nerves in the skin when pressure is applied. I have been informed that there is a possibility that bony remodelling, in the future, may possibly help. Originally it was suggested that trimming the bony was a possibility in the future. However, at my last appointment I was told that this was unlikely as it could present even more problems. In the mean time I’m wondering how to cope because I would love to get a back pack on again and forget about the seatbelt. Also, has anyone found wearing something on their lump and putting pressure on the nerves helps the nerves adapt or whatever? I would be grateful for any suggestions or help. Good luck everyone!

    Reply
  33. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    JLB – Is your lump causing you pain or discomfort when you have pressure applied to it? For example, from the seatbelt or backpack straps? If not then you shouldn’t have any worries as long as the bone has fully healed. I have done all day backpack trips with the strap on my lump and without problems. But, pay attention to how you feel. If there is pain or it becomes sore then you will need to back off.

    Reply
  34. JLB Avatar
    JLB

    Hi, broke right clavicle 4 months ago, mid shaft and displaced (overlapping). Although I’m feeling normal the bony lump is presenting problems. My two main issues are the car seatbelt, as on right side (uk), and back pack straps. Can anyone help? I know this isn’t much to worry about really. I would like to thank you in advance for any help you can provide! This is a great site, thanks.

    Reply
  35. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    A lazy boy would be great… I tried the pillow under legs technique and it gave me an extra hour – that or or I was just more knackered.
    My physio recommended a squashy ball to squeeze when my arm is extended and I found that lying on this (with the ball under the muscle that fatigues) helped a lot more. Pressure on the muscle whilst I breathe must give it a slight massage effect and stop it fatiguing (sp?) so much. Or something. I’ll try again tonight.

    Reply
  36. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Or you could try sleeping in a chair…a lazy boy would be the best…wish i had one.

    Reply
  37. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    Oh joy, so I have another few weeks of zero sleep to look forward to… not sure if I’m allowed to sleep on my side yet.
    Next week I’m allowed to move my forearm out and in (while bent) to avoid frozen shoulder. I asked the doctor about lack of sleep/back muscle pain and he said “welcome to shoulder surgery”. He’s very good actually, a specialist in shoulder reconstruction. He works out of the same practice as the Australian Rugby Union physician (he referred me originally) and they specialise in sports injuries. I can’t fault them so far. Health care in Sydney seems pretty good.

    Reply
  38. Terry Avatar
    Terry

    Ian – I’m in week 7 and haven’t had a good night’s sleep yet. Similar problem my lower back wakes me up after about 3 to 4 hours of sleep. Try putting a pillow or two under your knees. Or try sleeping on your side with the bad arm supported by pillows…i had no luck with this position but maybe you will. The bags under my eyes are growing…good luck.

    Reply
  39. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    I’m in to week 5 since the soccer accident, week 4 since the operation to have a screw put in. Just got back to work this week after going nuts in the apartment on my own…
    I have another two weeks before my check-up x-ray where they will hopefully decide when to take the screw out. The pain is fine, none at all but I’m still limited to no movement in the sling.
    The worst thimg by far is sleeping! Anyone else suffering badly from lack of sleep? I find I can go for 3 hours max before some little back muscle fatigues and wakes me up. I still have to have the arm supported by folded towels to stop any movement, I don’t think my back likes it.

    Reply
  40. Gina Avatar
    Gina

    I’m at day 6 and this sucks so bad!!

    Reply
  41. Gina Avatar
    Gina

    I’m at day 6 of my broken clavicle. What a miserable injury! I’ve broken my right wrist 2x and my left wrist 1x…I think the pain in this clavicle is the same as the pain from all broken wrists combined!

    Reply
  42. Andy Avatar
    Andy

    I am now in week 12. Broke my clavicle diving for a ball in a softball game. Everything I have experienced seems very similar to what most here have gone through (the immediate pain, sleeping on the couch, figure 8 sling, and very slow healing.) I have full range of motion in my arm and within the past week or so have stopped feeling the sharp pain down my bicep caused by, what felt like a pinched nerve somewhere in the break area. My problem is that while I can do most things, the doctor says that I am still not healing at the break point. So I have been fitted with some sort of electric thing that supposed to stimulate bone growth. Seems silly to me, but I’ll give it a shot. Would recommend, based on limited research, Tylenol rather than Ibuprofen-type pain killers. Some things I’ve read seem to indicate those drugs may slow the healing process. That’s at least worth some further investigation.

    Reply
  43. Ben Avatar
    Ben

    Its now just over 3 weeks ago since i broke my collarbone into 3 pieces…the pain is gone and i can use my arm freely again..i jsut cant lift heavy things.
    The only thing im worried about is that the bones are growing together wrong..because i got a lump on my shoudler now..and my shoudler is quite a bit shorter than the other one.

    Reply
  44. David Avatar
    David

    Ruth, I am in my week 7 after my injury, I too experienced the feeling everything was tearing apart at the littlest things I would do. I am now past that phase and I would agree it is better to make sure no sudden movements are done until movement is somewhat regained. I am feeling better everyday, I do have an appointment with a bone doctor/surgeon. At week 4 I had another xray taken and they felt it was not healing, I am not sure if it is or not. The pain is still there as a dull ache, but with some Advil it seems to be ok. The harder I try to use it, the worse it seems and always seems to ache more at night after working all day and better in the morning. I am now able to use my arm to wash my hair with out alot of stiffness or great pain in rasing my arm. My goal is to go to my appointment on Friday and have them tell me this is all normal and that it is going to take alot longer then the 4 weeks my doctor told me it would take to be able to go back to work and do all I was doing before. I certainly am not to that point yet. But each week that goes by seems to be better. I broke the same collar bone when I was 9 and do not remember much about it. I am 42 now and will certianly remember it now. I am Thanksful I found this site, It helps me feel better and not so worried that it is not healing fast enough. Thanks!

    Reply
  45. Joe Avatar
    Joe

    Any golf or tennis players out there? If so, how long was it before you started playing again? I am at week 8 of a collarbone break. I am no longer seeing a physical therapist; however she thought I could “ease” into golf or tennis at week 12. Would like to hear from anyone else about when they started playing golf or tennis again.

    Reply
  46. Tabitha Avatar
    Tabitha

    ******Update**** Hi All!! Well, my hubby had his surgery 10 days ago, and its doing really well! They took his stitches out today and the xrays showed excellent healing. There have been no real complications. I only wish they had done it right when the accident happened instead of waiting-and delaying- him 3 weeks. Hope you to get well soon!
    Tabitha

    Reply
  47. N. Osgood Avatar
    N. Osgood

    this os a most informative site. Nothing like reading about lengths of healing time and simular symptoms.
    We had an intruder on June 4th, and I took a tumble down the stairs,landing on the right shoulder (I’m right handed ,and paint murals for a living …well,used to)The granite floor was unforgiving.No bruising for three days,so I ignored the pain and set granite cobblestones (54 jumbos) in the patio, making sure not to raise my arm above waist level…could’t anyway
    The patio looks wonderful,and probably,using the shoulder was a good thing. At 56,it is going to take a while for full range of motion to return,but I can, at least shift the gears on my truck now,without reaching through with the left hand to shift.
    The “portabello mushroom” bruise that extended from inside the elbow,all the way to my armpit, vanished after one week,and I was able to brush my hair again, without reaching across with the left hand, not to mention other personal actions needed by the right hand.I can now raise the arm just above shoulder level (not pushing it) and rotate the shoulder….but still no reaching across the back.I think if you don’t use it,it would be worse, but I do pace myself.My husband says he thinks it’s amazing how it is coming along…no sling,or cast….and the only pain medication I’ve used is Flexall…eases it a bit. Pain meds wouldn’t work for me…I’d feel no pain and reinjure myself….I do landscaping too.I can hardly wait for this to completely heal!!! And it will…slowly, but surely.

    Reply
  48. Steve Mentzer Avatar
    Steve Mentzer

    I can attest to Hans comments to Ruth. I am currently at the end of my fourth week of healing my broken left clavicle. About 3-4 days after the break I lost my balance in the shower and fell against the stall. Of course it was the left side. I got such a shooting pain, I about cried. It was definitely a “don’t do that again” warning. My recovery now is progressing well I think. I will have more x-rays taken Tuesday and the movement I have in my left arm is much better and pain free. I am off the meds(Vicodan)and the figure 8 brace has done wonders for my posture.This according to my wife. Good luck to all in their recovery.

    Reply
  49. Hans Avatar
    Hans

    Peter – I don’t think you can do anything at this point in time for the length of your collar bone. If the angle and length that the bone has fused will cause you problems then I recommend going to an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible to have it evaluated. If the doctor recommends surgery it’s better having it done sooner rather than later.
    Ruth – When I had pain such as you described, it was normally associated with an action that jarred or bumped my break. It was a big red flag warning me to not do that. I would highly recommend you try your best not to bump, jar, or move your shoulder. Each time you do so while the bones are trying to fuse back together you risk undoing the healing. If you aren’t wearing a figure-8 than you should try using one. It helps to stabilize the shoulder and keep your alignment. In essence, it is helping to “straighten” the broken ends of the bones.

    Reply
  50. Ruth Avatar
    Ruth

    Can anyone explain what might be happening if I suddenly feel a burning, ripping pain at the point of the break? I was attempting to nurse my daughter when her head bumped my arm. That was 3 days after the break occured. I was ok after a while and it looked to my husband like the bones were more where they ought to be. Then a couple of days later, my son was attempting to place a pillow under my arm for support and I felt it again. After laying on the couch for some time I attempted to get in bed and when I was almost flat on my back, there came the pain again, only it lasted quite a while. Since then (I’m on day 9) everything has been ok, but the bone looks like it did originally, with the bones kind of bent toward my neck at the break and there’s a litttle jagged piece that pokes up. Now, one thing that I’ve not done is take any pain medication except for asprin. I haven’t taken it consistently, just at night for the first 4 days or so. I’m not sure what I would have felt, if anything at all, if I had been taking something strong all along. Anyone tried “straightening” theirs on their own?

    Reply
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