What is greenstick fracture of clavicle?

Direct trauma to the middle third of left clavicle has resulted in buckling of the bone without any cortical break. This is due to the inherent malleability in pediatric bones. When the inner cortex breaks, it is called a greenstick fracture.

What are the types of clavicle fracture?

Clavicle fractures are classified into three types based on the location of the fracture: 1) near the sternum (least common), 2) near the AC joint (second most common), or 3) in the middle of the bone between the sternum and AC joint (most common).

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

In most cases, greenstick fractures are treated by immobilizing the bone (keeping it from moving) with a cast or a splint. Most casts remain in place for 4-6 weeks.

How long does it take for a clavicle fracture to heal?

A broken collarbone, or fractured clavicle, is a common injury. It usually happens after a fall or a blow to the shoulder. It takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal in adults, and 3 to 6 weeks in children. The collarbone is a long, slender bone that runs from the breastbone to each shoulder.

Can clavicle fracture heal itself?

Usually a broken collarbone will heal on its own. You just need to give it time. To help speed the healing, you might get: A splint or brace to keep your shoulder from moving.

Is a greenstick fracture bad?

Greenstick fractures have a high risk of breaking completely through the bone, so most of these types of fractures are immobilized in a cast during healing. On occasion, your doctor may decide that a removable splint could work just as well, particularly if the break is mostly healed.

Can a greenstick fracture heal on its own?

“A greenstick fracture is easily managed and heals promptly and reliably,” Dr. Kuivila says. “As with most fractures in growing bones, the fracture completely remodels itself so that within a year you don’t even see evidence of it in an X-ray.”

What is the fastest way to heal a broken collarbone?

To help speed the healing, you might get:

1. A splint or brace to keep your shoulder from moving.
2. A sling for your arm, which you might use for a few days.
3. Anti-inflammatory painkillers, like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, which will help with pain and swelling.
4. Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises.

What does a greenstick fracture feel like?

The symptoms of a greenstick fracture vary depending on the severity of the fracture. You may only develop a bruise or general tenderness in more mild fractures. In other cases, there might be an obvious bend in the limb or fractured area, accompanied by swelling and pain.