As cyclists ride wheel-to-wheel in tight pelotons, they are in danger of high-speed crashes. One of the most common fractures in cycling is that of the clavicle or collarbone. The collarbone is a long curving bone that connects the sternum or breastbone to the shoulder and the only bone connecting the arm to the rest of the body. The collarbone is also one of the most vulnerable in the body, especially during a cycling crash.
Heightened Risk
Cyclists are more prone to collarbone fractures. When a cyclist crashes, he tends to break the fall with an outstretched arm. Often the shoulder, wrist or arm are the first parts to hit the ground in the event of a crash. Because the collarbone is so vulnerable, it can be easily fractured by the force transmitted through the arm and shoulder. Cyclists also tend to have little upper body muscle, making the bones more vulnerable.
Diagnosis
According to Dr. Dominic Briscomb, it's possible to diagnose 95 percent of all collarbone breaks by feel. Following a crash, a cyclist will typically have trouble lifting her arm. They can also experience intense shoulder pain. Symptoms vary, as it's possible to fracture the collarbone in one of three places. If you suspect that your collarbone is injured, seek medical help immediately, as an X-ray may be necessary to diagnose the injury.
Nonsurgical Treatment
If your collarbone has a simple break, you will probably have the option to let the bone heal for up to eight weeks. This is the safest route, although the recovery time is long. You will wear a splint or a figure-eight splint that will mobilize the shoulder as the bone knits back together. Another X-ray is typically required after six weeks to ensure the bone is healing properly.
Surgical Treatment
A shattered collarbone or one broken in several pieces often requires surgery. A metal plate is inserted to protect the neuromuscular bundle (the nerves and blood vessels that run beneath it) from being injured. Also, the collarbone tends to heal shorter in length than it was before the injury. This can increase rotator cuff problems later on. Surgery helps it heal properly. Most professional riders opt for surgery because the recovery time is typically four weeks, as opposed to eight.
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