Clavicle fractures are common injuries in active adults. And for cyclists, broken collarbones may seem like a rite of passage -- just ask Lance Armstrong. Armstrong broke his collarbone after he got caught in a pileup during theVuelta a Castilla y Leon, a minor five-day stage race in the countryside north of Madrid.
The clavicle, or collarbone, is located between the ribcage and the shoulder blade. It connects the arm to the body, and most breaks occur in the middle of the bone, most often by a direct blow the shoulder. This can happen during a fall onto the shoulder or a car accident.
Clavicle fractures can be very painful and may make it hard to move your arm. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, symptoms include:
- Sagging shoulder (down and forward)
- Inability to lift the arm because of pain
- A grinding sensation if an attempt is made to raise the arm
- A deformity or "bump" over the break
- Bruising, swelling, and/or tenderness over the collarbone
You can learn more about cyclists and clavicle injuries at a free seminar at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 28 at Treads Bicycle Outfitters in Lakewood (3234 S. Wadsworth Blvd. #F 80227).
Dr. Ed Rowland, cycling enthusiast and a specialist in fracture care and hand surgery, will discuss clavicle injuries, treatment options and more. RSVP to Samantha Cook at scook@panoramaortho.com or 720-497-6676.
