Clavicle dislocation, caused by impact, can result in pain and limited movement. Severity is classified into six types, with types four to six requiring surgery. Recovery time is at least eight weeks, with physical therapy included.
Clavicle dislocation is dislocation of the clavicle bone, more commonly known as the clavicle. Dislocation can occur in several ways, many of which involve some sort of impact. Symptoms of dislocation include varying degrees of pain and the inability to move the neck and/or arm. Treatment depends on the severity of the dislocation; the bone fracture along with the muscle tear may have occurred at the time of the dislocation. X-rays and a physical exam are needed before a doctor can recommend appropriate treatment.
The body contains two clavicle bones just below the shoulders. The purpose of the bone is to connect the scapula to the sternum, the latter more commonly known as the sternum. A dislocation occurs when one or both bones of the collarbone dislodge from the socket that holds it in place. Sports injuries are the most common causes of dislocation, although other accidents such as traffic accidents can have the same effect.
Symptoms of clavicle dislocation can be extremely painful, especially if the dislocation involves bone fracture or muscle/tendon tear. In addition to pain, an individual may experience a decreased ability to move their arms and neck. Dislocation can also be indicated by a physical strain where the collarbone is out of place.
Since clavicle dislocation is a common injury, doctors have classified it into six types depending on the severity of the injury. A type one injury is the least severe, and although a dislocation occurs, the bone remains intact and there is no damage to the surrounding muscle tissue and tendons. As the severity of the injury increases, a doctor classifies it as types two through six. Types one through three require immobilization such as a sling while the collarbone heals. Types four through six generally require corrective surgery.
Clavicle dislocation classification requires both X-rays and a physical exam. Analyzing this information allows the doctor to determine what type of dislocation is present. A doctor will review the results and discuss treatment options with the patient. Any patient requiring surgery may have to wait a few days for the surgery to take place. A doctor can prescribe pain relievers to keep the patient comfortable until the surgery date.
Surgery to correct a dislocated collarbone is minimally invasive. In some cases, surgeons may resort to arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopic surgery uses very little cutting and shortens recovery time. Regardless of the technique a surgeon uses, the recovery time is at least eight weeks. Physical therapy is a part of any recovery. Patients generally regain the range of motion they had before the dislocation.
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