Clavicle fracture

CLAVICLE FRACTURE

A clavicle fracture is an injury to the bone that connects the shoulder to the chest. The clavicle works like a bridge that helps the shoulder move well and transfer force from the arm to the body. This fracture often happens after a fall onto the shoulder, a fall onto an outstretched hand or a direct impact, for example during cycling or sports.
After the injury it is normal to feel pain and have difficulty lifting the arm. Rehabilitation aims to gradually restore shoulder movement without pulling at the area, improve strength and shoulder blade control and help you return to dressing, driving, work and daily arm use with confidence based on your instructions.

Symptoms in a clavicle fracture

After a clavicle fracture it is common to have shoulder or upper chest pain, tenderness and difficulty lifting the arm forward or out to the side. Many people keep the arm close to the body because it feels more comfortable and turning in bed, dressing and reaching above shoulder height can feel difficult. Swelling or bruising can appear and the shoulder may feel easily fatigued because the body guards the area.
As immobilization reduces it is normal to feel shoulder stiffness and tightness around the neck or shoulder blade, especially if movement was avoided for a while. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring smooth motion, strengthening the muscles that stabilize the shoulder blade and improving control so the arm works again without compensations. If you develop strong numbness, finger weakness or pain that suddenly spikes compared with before seek prompt medical guidance.

What happens in the first session

In the first session we look at how you move the arm comfortably within your allowed limits, how the shoulder blade sits and whether the neck feels tight because of a protective posture. We work on practical ways to make daily tasks easier such as dressing, reaching close to the body and changing sleep positions without sudden movements.
Step by step we add exercises that retrain the shoulder blade to work smoothly with the shoulder. This helps you lift the arm more comfortably, reduces fatigue and supports a return to work, driving and light home activities. Progress aims to feel easier week by week without a strong next-day flare-up.

Why does it hurt so much when I try to lift the arm?

The clavicle supports shoulder mechanics, so lifting can be uncomfortable early on. With gradual motion and better shoulder blade control discomfort usually settles and lifting becomes smoother.

Is it normal to struggle with sleep?

Yes, especially early on, because pressure and position changes can hurt. Supporting the arm, moving more slowly when turning and avoiding sudden movements often help.

When does shoulder motion start to return?

It depends on your instructions and how the area is stabilized. Motion usually begins within safe limits and progresses gradually to avoid next-day irritation.

Why does my neck feel tight?

The neck often works harder when you guard the arm or hike the shoulder. Posture work, gentle movement and better arm use usually reduce this tightness.

When can I use the arm for light tasks?

You usually start with simple tasks close to the body within your allowed limits. Progress is gradual aiming for no strong next-day pain or fatigue.

When can I return to driving?

It depends on whether you can control the wheel, react quickly and move without pain. Confirm with your clinician and try it first in safe conditions.

How do I know I am progressing well?

Good signs include lifting the arm a bit higher with better control, less fatigue during daily tasks and the shoulder settling faster after use. Improved shoulder blade stability is another sign.

Clavicle fracture