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The clavicle is the bone that is "V" shaped and connects the sternum or breastplate to the shoulders. It also referred to as the collarbone. Although it is a solid bone, due to its location and how it is connected to the shoulder, it is one of the most commonly fractured bones in the body. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC regularly represents people who have sustained a fractured clavicle in a Chicago accident case.
What Is A Fractured Clavicle?
The clavicle or collarbone can be fractured by severe force to the shoulder or, less commonly, a direct impact to the clavicle itself. This can happen by landing on an outstretched arm or on the shoulder. It can also happen when the bone is struck directly. There are three main types of clavicle fractures.
- At the sternum. This is the less common type of break and only accounts for about 5% of clavicle fractures.
- At the AC joint. The fracture may happen near the AC or shoulder joint end of the clavicle.
- Mid-point. Most clavicle fractures happen at the mid-point between the sternum and the AC joint.
Typical Causes of Clavicle Fractures in Accident Cases
Since most clavicles are fractured from impact or force to the arm or shoulder, any type of activity that can cause a person to land on their shoulder or arm can cause a fracture. Common causes of clavicle fractures in Illinois personal injury matters are:
- Car or motorcycle accidents. Impact from an air bag or steering wheel can cause a clavicle fracture or being thrust with force against the pavement or side of the vehicle.
- Falls. Especially common in children involved in climbing falls and elderly persons who fall and have more delicate bones.
- Bike accident. Particularly when cyclists are thrown over their handlebars, clavicle fracture injuries may results
Medical Treatment for Most Clavicle Fractures
Any clavicle fracture should have medical treatment. The physician will take X-rays to see where and how many times the bone is fractured. There are three general treatments used to heal the fracture.
- Sling. The affected arm is often put into a sling to keep it immobile while the clavicle heals.
- Figure-of-8-splint. This special bandaging is used to hold the clavicle and shoulders in place.
- Surgery. If there are several breaks, nerve damage or it is an open fracture, orthopedic surgery may be needed. Also, if the fracture will not heal on its own, surgery may be recommended.
Prognosis For People With Clavicle Fractures
Fractured clavicles generally heal in less than 2 months in children and in up to 4 months in adults. There will be limited movement of the arm and shoulder while the bone is healing. There may need to be physical therapy to strengthen the muscle surrounding the shoulder and clavicle.
Did You Sustain a Fracture in an Illinois Accident? Contact a Personal Injury Law Firm With Experience In These Cases
Many everyday accidents can result in serious injuries to people– including fractures. When an accident is related to the negligence of another party the individual can recover money damages for their injuries. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC regularly represents people who have sustained serious fracture injuries in accidents. Put our experience to work for you today.
