Clavicle Fracture Dislocation: Recovery and Sports Readiness

Dislocation after clavicle fracture?

Hello Doctor, regarding my situation, I have a fracture that has been treated with a plate, with a mid-shaft fracture that is halfway through.
A week later, I woke up to find that it had suddenly dislocated, which was assessed as a Grade III dislocation.
The X-ray shows the area below the clavicle at the superior edge of the acromion, and it has now been seven weeks.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
If I do not undergo surgery, will I be able to return to basketball-related activities?
2.
How long does it typically take for the ligaments to heal?
3.
Given the severity of my injury, how long will it be before I can ride a bike?
4.
Despite being careful and using a triangular sling, why did the dislocation occur suddenly?

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/13

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello,
1.
If surgery is not performed, is it possible to return to basketball activities? It may be difficult.

2.
How long does it take for ligaments to heal? Approximately three months.

3.
How long after this type of injury can one ride a bike? Three months post-surgery.

4.
Even with a sling, why might dislocation occur suddenly? It is possible that during the injury, a fracture and dislocation occurred simultaneously, but the dislocation may be overlooked during the fracture (as it is not affected by gravity when lying flat).
Personally, I believe that both fractures and dislocations should be treated surgically to ensure proper healing and future recovery potential.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2021/05/13

More Info

Clavicle fractures, particularly when accompanied by dislocations, can be quite complex and require careful management to ensure proper healing and a return to sports. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a significant injury, and it's understandable to have concerns about your recovery and future sports participation.

1. Recovery Without Surgery: If your clavicle fracture was managed conservatively (without surgery), the potential for returning to basketball or similar sports largely depends on the stability of the fracture and the associated dislocation. Generally, if the fracture is healing well and there are no complications, many athletes can return to sports after about 8 to 12 weeks. However, this timeline can vary based on individual healing rates and the specific nature of your injury. It is crucial to have follow-up evaluations with your orthopedic surgeon to assess the healing process and determine when it is safe to resume sports activities.

2. Ligament Healing Time: The ligaments around the shoulder, including those involved in a clavicle dislocation, typically take longer to heal than the bone itself. Ligament healing can take anywhere from 6 weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury and the specific ligaments involved. In cases of significant dislocation, such as a grade III dislocation, the ligaments may be severely stretched or torn, which can prolong recovery. Physical therapy is often recommended to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve stability once the initial healing phase has passed.

3. Return to Cycling: The timeline for returning to activities like cycling can be shorter than for high-impact sports like basketball. Many patients can begin light cycling within 4 to 6 weeks post-injury, provided they are comfortable and have adequate range of motion. However, it is essential to avoid any activities that could risk falling or further injury until you have been cleared by your healthcare provider.

4. Reasons for Sudden Dislocation: The sudden dislocation you experienced could be attributed to several factors. Even with a sling and careful management, the shoulder can be susceptible to dislocation if the ligaments are compromised or if there is excessive movement. Factors such as muscle weakness, improper positioning during sleep, or even minor movements can lead to dislocation in the early stages of recovery. It’s important to follow your physician's advice regarding immobilization and activity restrictions to minimize the risk of re-injury.

In summary, while recovery from a clavicle fracture and dislocation can be challenging, many individuals can return to their previous levels of activity with appropriate rehabilitation and care. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare team, adhere to rehabilitation protocols, and listen to your body during the recovery process. Engaging in physical therapy can also help strengthen the shoulder and improve stability, which is essential for a safe return to sports. Always consult your orthopedic specialist for personalized advice and to monitor your progress throughout your recovery journey.

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