How is a clavicle fracture typically treated?

Strap or surgery: If there is minimal displacement then a clavicle strap is enough. If markedly displaced, then surgery would be appropriate. This would include a plate and screws or a small rod that would be placed inside the bone after aligning it.

Sling: Sling pain control surgery rarely indicated.

Non op or surgery: Clavicle fractures without much displacement or shortening are treated without surgery usually in a sling for comfort for a week or two then early range of motion of the shoulder. Displaced or shortened clavicle fractures may be treated with surgery.

Depends: The treatment of clavicle fractures widely varies depending on the location of the fracture, the amount of shortening of the clavicle, involvement of surrounding soft tissues, including the overlying skin. Lots of fractures can be treated with a sling and time, certain fractures have superior outcomes with surgical care.

Sling or strap: Is the traditional most common treatment in recent years more open reduction and internal fixation is being done especially for significantly displaced fractures or those associated with poor positioning of the fragments or in so called high performace athletes involved in overhead activity. Surgery brings its own unique risks and benefits too.

Non-surgically.: Most clavicle fracture heal uneventfully, with 6-8 weeks of rest. However, there are some fracture patterns that may be better treated surgically. Consult a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon,. who specializes in shoulders.