Diagnosis Explanation:

A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone, often caused by falls onto the shoulder, direct impact (sports, car accidents), or outstretched arm falls. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, a visible bump or deformity, difficulty moving the arm, and shoulder sagging. Healing typically takes 6-8 weeks, depending on severity.

Specific Work Modifications:

• If your job requires standing or walking: Avoid carrying weight on the injured side and take frequent seated breaks.
• If your job involves lifting: Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling objects. Use the unaffected arm whenever possible.
• If your job is desk-based: Sit with proper posture, keep the injured arm supported, and avoid leaning on the collarbone.
• Avoid: Lifting, overhead reaching, repetitive arm movements, and any activity that causes pain.

Specific Activity Modifications:

• If you play sports: Avoid contact sports, throwing, or overhead movements until fully healed.
• If you do weightlifting: Avoid bench presses, overhead presses, deadlifts, and any movement requiring arm support.
• If you do yoga or Pilates: Modify movements to avoid weight-bearing on the arms (e.g., avoid planks and downward dog).
• Avoid: High-impact activities, sudden shoulder movements, and carrying heavy loads.

Recommended Supplements:

• Calcium & Vitamin D – 1000mg/800 IU daily for bone healing.
• Collagen Peptides – 10g daily to support connective tissue repair.
• Magnesium – 300-400mg daily for muscle relaxation and bone health.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – 1000mg daily to reduce inflammation.
• Turmeric (Curcumin) – 500-1000mg daily for natural pain relief.

Recommended Nutrition and Hydration:

• Increase Lean Protein (chicken, fish, tofu, eggs) to aid bone and muscle healing.
• Eat Bone-Strengthening Foods (leafy greens, dairy, nuts, seeds) to support fracture repair.
• Consume Anti-Inflammatory Foods (berries, turmeric, green tea) to reduce swelling.
• Limit Processed Foods & Sugars to prevent inflammation.
• Hydration: Drink 8-10 cups of water daily to support bone regeneration.

Home Exercise Prescription (Rehabilitation for Clavicle Fracture)

Early Phase (0-2 Weeks, Pain Management & Protection):

• Immobilization – Use a sling for 2-4 weeks to stabilize the fracture.
• Pendulum Exercises – Lean forward, let the arm hang, gently swing in circles, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Elbow Flexion & Extension – Bend and straighten the elbow while keeping the shoulder still, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Scapular Retractions – Gently squeeze shoulder blades together, hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 reps, 2x/day.

Strengthening Phase (3-6 Weeks, Regaining Mobility & Strength):

• Isometric Shoulder Holds – Press palm against a wall without moving the shoulder, hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Wall Slides – Stand facing a wall, slide hands up slowly, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Internal & External Rotation (Resistance Band, If Tolerated) – Rotate arm inward and outward, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Advanced Phase (6+ Weeks, Full Recovery & Strengthening):

• Lateral Arm Raises (Light Resistance) – Raise arms to shoulder height, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Scapular Stability Exercises (Resistance Band Rows) – Pull resistance band toward chest, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Modified Push-Ups (Wall or Knees) – Maintain control, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Helpful Books:

1. The Healthy Shoulder Handbook: 100 Exercises for Treating and Preventing Injuries – Karl Knopf.
2. Overcoming Pain: A Guide to Managing Shoulder, Neck, and Back Pain – Dr. Kit Laughlin.

Contact the Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.