How long does a fractured collar bone take to heal?
How long does it take to heal? In adults, it usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks for a broken collarbone to heal, although it can take longer. In children, it usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks to heal. However, it will take at least the same period again to restore full strength to your shoulder.
What are the long term effects of a broken collarbone?
When the bone fragments do not heal together, complications such as infection can arise. Occasionally, long-term damage can result, including: Pain. Joint problems.
Can broken collarbone heal itself?
Usually a broken collarbone will heal on its own. You just need to give it time. To help speed the healing, you might get: A splint or brace to keep your shoulder from moving.
Can a collarbone heal wrong?
The fracture can move out of place before it heals. If the bone heals in the wrong position, called a “malunion”, it can affect the patient’s shoulder function..
Can a broken collarbone hurt years later?
Now, a year later, you’re still experiencing problems associated with the fracture. The doctors at St. Luke’s told you this can happen with clavicle breaks, which means you may have to put up with pain and limited mobility for the rest of your life.
When do you start physical therapy after clavicle fracture?
It is typical for physical therapy to begin immediately following the operation. Eight to 12 weeks of physical therapy is common after surgery. During the first week after surgery, your physical therapist will help you control pain and swelling. They may begin some gentle motion exercises.
How do you know if a broken bone isn’t healing?
Symptoms of a fracture that is not healing normally include tenderness, swelling, and an aching pain that may be felt deep within the affected bone. Often, the bone isn’t strong enough to bear weight, and you may not be able to use the affected body part until the bone heals.
What happens if a broken collarbone doesn’t heal?
Some collarbone fractures heal very slowly. Others may not heal at all and require additional treatment, although that is uncommon. Severe fractures that cause the bones to be significantly out of position or result in an overlap of the broken bone fragments may require surgery to properly reposition them.