What Activities or Motions Hinder the Healing Process of a Collarbone Fracture?

What You Need to Know: A broken collarbone, or clavicle fracture, typically heals well with appropriate care and rest, but certain activities and motions can impede the healing process. Below, we'll delve into key factors to avoid to ensure proper recovery and maintain your health.

Overhead Movements

Engaging in overhead movements such as lifting your arms above shoulder level can place unnecessary stress on the collarbone and surrounding muscles, potentially delaying the healing process. This is particularly important given the nature of your injury. Continuing such activities may lead to prolonged recovery time and could even worsen the break.

Heavy Lifting

Carrying heavy objects can strain not only your shoulders but also the collarbone, which could exacerbate your condition. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, heavy lifting should be avoided until the bone has sufficiently healed. Any strain here could shift the bone or create new injuries, which is something you want to avoid.

Sports and Physical Activities

Sports and activities involving sudden movements, as well as contact sports, can pose significant risks of re-injury. Your priority should be to avoid any high-impact or strenuous activities until your collarbone is fully healed. This includes running, jumping, or any activity that might cause sudden movements. Consult your healthcare provider to determine when it is safe to resume such activities.

Poor Posture

Improper posture, such as slouching, can place additional strain on the collarbone. Maintaining good posture is crucial during the healing process. Over time, poor posture can lead to muscle imbalances and further strain on the injured area.

Ignoring Pain

Continuing activities that cause pain can exacerbate your injury and slow down the healing process. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any movements that cause discomfort. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something is not right.

Inconsistent Use of Support Devices

Using support devices such as a sling or brace inconsistently can lead to improper alignment of the collarbone, which can impede healing. Your healthcare provider has likely advised you to use such devices to ensure proper bone alignment. Failing to follow their recommendations may delay your recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Inadequate Rest

Finally, failing to give your body enough rest and time to heal can prolong your recovery. Proper rest is crucial for the body to repair and strengthen the affected area. Adequate sleep and downtime are essential components of the healing process.

Your Personal Case Recap

I broke my collarbone almost 5 weeks ago. The break is distal, meaning it is more susceptible to motion and so can be harder to heal. However, it’s a very clean break and perfectly aligned. Initially, I had little pain after the first day or two except when I moved my arm too much. Driving was mainly handled with my other hand from day one. At 4 weeks, my doctor noted some early signs of healing but advised me to still be careful, preventing any resistance and lifting only light objects.

Given your advice to 'let pain be your guide,' I’ve been doing more and more daily activities. For instance, cutting vegetables with a knife requires some downward pressure and I can feel a sensation at the break point but definitely wouldn't say it hurts. Am I risking not healing adequately?

Based on the advice from your healthcare provider and the principles discussed above, it's likely that you should proceed with caution. Activities that cause any sensation, even a minor one, should be avoided until you are fully recovered. It’s crucial to listen to your body and follow your provider's recommendations.

For detailed guidance, always consult your healthcare provider and follow their specific instructions for your unique case. Remember, proper healing is crucial for long-term recovery and functionality.