Rehabilitation Tips After Clavicle Fracture Surgery: What You Need to Know - Orthopedics

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After a clavicle fracture surgery, rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and preventing complications such as frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Given your situation, where you are approximately seven weeks post-surgery with a steel plate and screws in place, it is essential to approach rehabilitation carefully and systematically.


Understanding the Healing Process
First, it’s important to recognize that the healing process for a clavicle fracture can vary from person to person. Generally, the bone will take about 6 to 12 weeks to heal sufficiently, but full recovery, including regaining strength and range of motion, may take several months. The presence of the steel plate provides stability, but it does not eliminate the need for rehabilitation.


Rehabilitation Guidelines
1. Consult with Your Healthcare Team: It’s essential to have clear communication with both your orthopedic surgeon and your physical therapist. Each professional may have different perspectives on rehabilitation based on their expertise. Your surgeon may focus on the structural integrity of the bone, while your physical therapist will emphasize functional recovery.

2. Start with Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Since you are already advised to practice wall climbing and lateral raises, continue with these exercises as they are beneficial for improving shoulder mobility. Start slowly and focus on pain-free movements. If you experience significant pain, it may be a sign to reduce the intensity or modify the exercise.

3. Incorporate Passive and Active Range of Motion: Initially, you may perform passive range of motion exercises, where someone else helps move your arm. As you progress, you can transition to active range of motion exercises, where you move your arm independently. This progression is vital for regaining mobility without overstraining the healing tissues.

4. Strengthening Exercises: Once you have regained a reasonable range of motion (aiming for at least 120 degrees of shoulder flexion), you can start incorporating strengthening exercises. These may include resistance bands or light weights, focusing on the rotator cuff and shoulder girdle muscles. Strengthening these muscles is crucial for shoulder stability and function.

5. Monitor Pain and Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some discomfort during rehabilitation, but sharp pain is a warning sign. If you feel pain that limits your ability to perform exercises, consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust your rehabilitation plan accordingly.

6. Avoid Overhead Activities Initially: While you may be eager to return to full activity, it’s advisable to avoid overhead movements until your shoulder has regained sufficient strength and mobility. This precaution helps prevent re-injury or complications.

7. Consider Manual Therapy: If you are experiencing significant tightness or discomfort, manual therapy techniques performed by a qualified physical therapist can help alleviate stiffness and improve mobility.

8. Stay Consistent: Rehabilitation requires consistency. Set a schedule for your exercises and stick to it. Regular practice will yield better results over time.

9. Nutrition and Recovery: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone healing. Staying hydrated and maintaining overall health will also contribute to a smoother recovery process.

10. Patience is Key: Recovery from a clavicle fracture can be frustrating, especially when progress seems slow. However, patience and adherence to your rehabilitation program are essential for achieving the best possible outcome.


Conclusion
In summary, after clavicle fracture surgery, a balanced approach to rehabilitation is crucial. Engage in gentle range of motion exercises, gradually progress to strengthening activities, and maintain open communication with your healthcare team. By following these guidelines and being patient with your recovery, you can work towards regaining full function of your shoulder and arm. If you have any concerns about your progress or specific exercises, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.