Recovery Insights for Severe Clavicle and Rib Fractures After an Accident

Clavicle fracture with multiple rib fractures and posterior scoliosis?

Hello Dr.
Tsai:
My family member was involved in a car accident and fell to the ground, resulting in a comminuted fracture of the left clavicle and three broken ribs on the left side (the hospital did not perform rib plate fixation).
There are multiple contusions and bruises on the body, along with a developing scoliosis and persistent, unclear pain in the pelvis that continues to this day.
They had a pre-existing condition of osteoporosis.
I have a few questions for you:
1.
After the surgery, my family member has been unable to care for themselves for nearly three months and requires assistance from family members.
Is this situation normal? Based on your experience, is their recovery slower compared to others?

2.
It has been five months since the injury, and they often feel unable to exert normal force on the left side.
Given their condition, how long do you estimate it will take for the injured areas to heal?
3.
My family member's job requires lifting heavy objects.
For safety considerations, how long do you recommend waiting before they can lift heavy items again?
4.
Regarding the spinal issues caused by the car accident, the doctor mentioned that further observation is needed.
Do you have any recommendations?
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer these four questions!

Mr. You, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/09

Dr. Cai Shanglin reply Orthopedics

1.
It is quite common for multiple fractures to require three months of rest.

2.
The fastest recovery time is six months, while the longest may not result in full recovery.

3.
It is difficult to determine; please consult the treating physician during your follow-up appointment.

4.
Let's just monitor the situation.

Reply Date: 2020/05/09

More Info

Recovery from severe fractures, such as those of the clavicle and ribs, can be a complex and lengthy process, particularly when compounded by pre-existing conditions like osteoporosis. Here’s a detailed response to your questions based on medical knowledge and experience.

1. Post-Surgery Recovery Time: It is not uncommon for individuals with severe fractures, especially those involving the clavicle and ribs, to experience prolonged recovery times. The fact that your family member has been unable to self-care for three months is within the realm of normalcy, particularly given the severity of the injuries. Clavicle fractures can significantly impact shoulder mobility and function, while rib fractures can lead to pain with breathing and movement, further complicating recovery. In my experience, individuals with pre-existing conditions like osteoporosis may indeed experience slower recovery due to the fragility of their bones and the potential for complications during the healing process.

2. Expected Recovery Timeline: For a clavicle fracture, healing typically takes about 6 to 12 weeks, but this can vary based on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s overall health. Rib fractures usually heal within 6 weeks, but pain can persist longer. Given that your family member has been injured for five months, it is reasonable to expect that they may still be in the healing phase, especially if they are experiencing ongoing pain and weakness. Regular follow-up with an orthopedic specialist is crucial to monitor healing and adjust treatment as necessary.

3. Returning to Heavy Lifting: When it comes to returning to work that involves lifting heavy objects, it is essential to approach this cautiously. Generally, individuals recovering from rib and clavicle fractures should avoid heavy lifting for at least 8 to 12 weeks post-injury, but this can vary based on individual recovery progress and pain levels. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to assess strength and mobility before resuming such activities. It may also be beneficial to engage in physical therapy to strengthen the affected areas and ensure a safe return to work.

4. Spinal Issues Post-Accident: The mention of spinal issues following the accident warrants careful consideration. Spinal alignment and health can be affected by trauma, and ongoing pain should not be ignored. It is advisable to have regular assessments by a spine specialist or orthopedic surgeon to monitor any changes in the spine and to determine if further imaging or interventions are needed. Physical therapy may also be beneficial in addressing any postural issues or pain related to the spine.

In summary, recovery from severe fractures can be a slow and challenging process, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions. It is crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare providers, adhere to follow-up appointments, and engage in prescribed rehabilitation exercises. Patience and support from family members can significantly aid in the recovery journey. If there are any concerns about the healing process or if new symptoms arise, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Recovery Insights for Clavicle Fracture Repair

In mid-May of this year, I had an accident while riding a motorcycle, resulting in a fracture of my left clavicle along with fractures of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th ribs. Due to the significant distance between the fractured ends of the clavicle, I underwent surgery to fixate the...

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello Jack, in response to your question: I suggest you return to the hospital where you had your surgery and consult your attending physician regarding your concerns. If you are not satisfied with their answer, I personally recommend seeking a second opinion from another orthope...

Recovery Insights for Femur and Clavicle Fractures After Accident

Hello: I was in a car accident on October 7, resulting in fractures of my left femur and left clavicle, with no external injuries. The femur was fractured in the middle, with a small fragment. I underwent surgery that day to fix it with steel nails. A week later, it was discovere...

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics
Dear Reader, The primary purpose of surgery is to reduce pain and promote functional recovery. Therefore, surgery is just the first step; you must also take good care of yourself and engage in active rehabilitation to minimize the losses caused by the injury. Below are the answe...

Understanding Clavicle Fractures: Healing Challenges and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. I was in a car accident on November 19, 2017, after 12 PM, where a small car collided with a mountain wall and flipped over. I was sitting on the far left, and there were two other guys pressing against me. Everyone else was fine, but I ended up with a fractured co...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If a clavicle fracture is treated conservatively, there is a high chance of gradual healing with callus formation within approximately three months. If pain persists beyond three months and there are no signs of callus formation, surgical intervention should be considered. Since ...

Flying After a Fracture: Risks and Recommendations for Recovery

Hello, Doctor. I was involved in a traffic accident on June 25, resulting in an open fracture of my left clavicle and fractures of my left ribs from the second to the seventh (concentrated in the back and side). I have undergone plate fixation surgery for the clavicle, while the ...

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
The attending physician is the one who understands your condition and recovery the best. If one of their opinions differs, it is advisable for you to assess and weigh the information yourself, or to return for a follow-up consultation with the physician to discuss it further. Tha...