What is the Clavicle?
Understanding the Clavicle and Physiotherapy for Related Injuries
The clavicle, or collarbone, is a long, slender bone that sits horizontally at the top of the chest, connecting the arm to the body. It spans from the sternum (breastbone) in the centre of the chest to the acromion, which is the outermost point of the shoulder blade. The clavicle acts as a crucial support structure for the shoulder, enabling a wide range of arm movements while maintaining the stability of the shoulder joint. Additionally, it serves to protect important nerves and blood vessels that run underneath it, which supply the upper limb.
Function and Role of the Clavicle
The clavicle has several key functions. Firstly, it acts as a strut, keeping the shoulder blade in place and maintaining the proper position of the arm for efficient movement. This helps the arm move freely, allowing activities like lifting, reaching, and throwing. Secondly, the clavicle protects vital structures, including nerves and blood vessels that run between the neck and arm. This protective function is critical, especially during impacts or falls. Lastly, the clavicle absorbs and transfers physical forces from the arm to the axial skeleton, minimising damage during activities such as sports or accidents.
Common Clavicle Injuries
Clavicle Fractures
Fractures are the most common injury to the clavicle, typically occurring from a direct blow to the shoulder or falling onto an outstretched arm. These fractures can range from minor cracks to full breaks and may cause significant pain and deformity, particularly if the bone is displaced.
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Separation
An AC joint separation occurs when the ligaments connecting the clavicle to the shoulder blade are damaged, often due to falls or impacts directly on the shoulder.
Clavicle Dislocations
Clavicle dislocations occur when the bone is displaced from either the sternum or the acromion. These are less common but can cause significant discomfort and loss of function.
How Physiotherapists Can Help with Clavicle Injuries
Physiotherapy is vital in both conservative and post-surgical management of clavicle injuries. Here’s how a physiotherapist can assist:
Pain Management
In the early stages, physiotherapists focus on reducing pain and inflammation through techniques like ice therapy, manual therapy, and electrotherapy. This helps the patient manage discomfort and begin their recovery.
Restoring Range of Motion
After a clavicle injury, patients often experience stiffness in the shoulder and neck due to immobilisation. Physiotherapists will guide the patient through controlled exercises to restore motion in the shoulder and neck, ensuring flexibility without compromising healing.
Strengthening Exercises
Once the injury has stabilised, strengthening exercises are introduced to target the shoulder, upper back, and chest muscles. This helps protect the clavicle by ensuring strong support from surrounding muscles.
Posture and Gait Correction
Poor posture can develop as the body compensates for pain or discomfort following a clavicle injury. Physiotherapists assess and correct these imbalances to reduce strain and prevent further complications during recovery.
Overall, the clavicle is essential for shoulder function and upper body mobility, and physiotherapy plays a key role in recovery from injuries, helping patients regain strength and return to their usual activities.
