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Cyclists
and Collarbone Injuries
In addition
to leg trauma, concussions and knee and tendon problems, hard-core
racers and weekend riders alike are often at risk for breaking
their collarbones. Accidental falls and collisions with other
cyclists are the usual causes.
The collarbone
(also called the clavicle), upper arm bone and shoulder blade
are the three primary bones that make up the shoulder, a joint
that moves every time the arm moves. The collarbone is the bone
over the top of the chest between the breast bone and shoulder
blade.
Symptoms
of shoulder-related injuries include pain, stiffness, swelling,
reduced strength, limited range of motion, redness, swelling and
bruising.
At the very
outset, patients are advised to rest, apply ice and take anti-inflammatory
medicines to reduce pain and inflammation. Additional diagnosis
and treatment options include:
- Ultrasound,
the use of sound waves to visualize the inside of the body,
specifically the collarbone
- Wearing
a strap or sling to immobilize shoulder bones
- Cortisone
injections
- Surgery.
This is rarely necessary, done only when the fracture is severe.
Arthroscopic or traditional surgery can repair damage and take
pressure off tendons and bursa sacs (small lubricating pouches
found over areas where friction may develop).
- Rehabilitation
exercises after other treatment regimens have been completed
to regain gradually full range of motion.
Recovery
from most collarbone injuries takes about three months, though
the pain should subside within a few weeks. Cyclists are strongly
advised against engaging in any activity even normal household
duties that causes the pain to get worse.
Sports medicine
has emerged as a medical specialty focusing on problems experienced
by professional, amateur and casual athletes as they strive to
improve performance and enjoy their favorite pursuits. If you
are experiencing continued cyclist-related pain or discomfort,
an orthopedic specialist should be consulted so that conditions
do not become chronic.
Information
provided by

1-800-CEDARS-1
1-800-233-2771
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