Managing Muscle Tightness After Clavicle Fracture Surgery - Rehabilitation

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After undergoing clavicle fracture surgery, it is common to experience muscle tightness, especially in the shoulder region. The tightness you are feeling in your deltoid and triceps muscles, particularly around the acromion, can be attributed to several factors, including muscle guarding, post-surgical inflammation, and the body's natural response to injury and immobilization.


Understanding Muscle Tightness Post-Surgery
1. Muscle Guarding: After surgery, the body often protects the injured area by tightening surrounding muscles. This is a natural response to prevent further injury, but it can lead to discomfort and limited range of motion.

2. Inflammation: Surgical procedures can cause inflammation in the surrounding tissues, leading to stiffness and tightness in the muscles. This inflammation can persist for weeks or even months after surgery.

3. Reduced Mobility: Following surgery, especially with the use of a sling or immobilizer, the muscles can become stiff due to lack of movement. This is particularly true for the shoulder, which is a highly mobile joint.


Rehabilitation Strategies
To manage muscle tightness and promote recovery, consider the following strategies:
1. Gentle Stretching: Incorporate gentle stretching exercises into your routine. Focus on the shoulder, upper back, and arm muscles. Stretching can help alleviate tightness and improve flexibility. For example, try the following stretches:
- Cross-body shoulder stretch: Bring your right arm across your body and gently pull it closer with your left arm.

- Overhead stretch: Raise your right arm overhead and lean to the left to stretch the right side of your body.

2. Range of Motion Exercises: Engage in passive and active range of motion exercises. Start with passive movements (where someone else moves your arm) and gradually progress to active movements (where you move your arm yourself). This can help maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness.

3. Strengthening Exercises: Once you have regained some range of motion, begin strengthening exercises for the shoulder and upper arm. Focus on low-resistance exercises initially, such as:
- Isometric shoulder exercises: Press your arm against a wall or a sturdy surface without moving it.

- Resistance band exercises: Use a resistance band to perform external and internal rotation exercises.

4. Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the affected area can help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. Consider using a warm towel or heating pad for 15-20 minutes before stretching or exercising.

5. Physical Therapy: If tightness persists or worsens, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide a tailored rehabilitation program that includes manual therapy, specific exercises, and modalities to reduce pain and improve function.

6. Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture throughout the day. Poor posture can exacerbate muscle tightness. Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up and practice good posture while sitting and standing.


When to Seek Further Help
While some muscle tightness is expected after surgery, if you experience severe pain, swelling, or a significant decrease in range of motion, it is essential to consult your surgeon or a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your condition and determine if further intervention is needed.


Conclusion
Managing muscle tightness after clavicle fracture surgery involves a combination of gentle stretching, range of motion exercises, strengthening, and possibly physical therapy. It is crucial to listen to your body and progress at a pace that feels comfortable. With consistent effort and appropriate care, you should see improvement in your shoulder mobility and a reduction in tightness over time. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific situation.