Clavicle fracture
Clavicle Fracture
A Clavicle Fracture (pronounced: KLAV-i-kul FRAK-chur), also known as a broken collarbone, is a common injury that occurs when the clavicle or collarbone, located between the shoulder blade and the breastbone (sternum), breaks.
Etymology
The term "clavicle" originates from the Latin word "clavicula," which means "little key" due to its shape. The term "fracture" comes from the Latin word "fractura," meaning "a break."
Causes
Clavicle fractures are often caused by a direct blow to the shoulder. This can happen during a fall onto the shoulder or a car collision. A fall onto an outstretched arm can also cause a clavicle fracture.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a clavicle fracture can include:
- Pain that increases with shoulder movement
- Swelling
- Tenderness along the collarbone
- A bulge on or near the shoulder
- A grinding sensation if an attempt is made to raise the arm
- A decrease in shoulder strength
- A decrease in range of motion in the affected arm
Diagnosis
A clavicle fracture is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. In some cases, a CT scan may be used to provide more detailed images.
Treatment
Treatment for a clavicle fracture often depends on the nature of the fracture. A simple fracture may only require a sling to immobilize the arm and shoulder as the bone heals. More complex fractures may require surgical intervention to realign the bone and secure it in place with screws or plates.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Clavicle fracture
- Wikipedia's article - Clavicle fracture
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski