Your child has fractured (broken) their collar bone. This type of fracture is common in children and it is usually caused by a fall onto the shoulder.
- This type of fracture usually heals well with time and no routine follow up is necessary.
- A sling will hold the shoulder in a comfortable position and should be worn for 2 – 3 weeks. During this time it is ok to remove the sling for washing / dressing and the arm can be moved as able.
- It may be more comfortable for your child to sleep upright for a few days.
- Over the counter medication can be helpful. We recommend paracetamol as first line pain relief. (Always check the label before use.)
- Your child can return to sports such as swimming as they feel able, however contact sports such as football and rugby should be avoided for 6 weeks.
- During the healing process, the body forms new bone (callus) around the fracture site. A lump/bump may develop over the collarbone. This is a normal part of the healing process and it may take up to one year for the lump/bump to disappear. If your child is over ten years old a small bump may remain.
Contacts
If you have further questions about your child’s injury or if your child is still experiencing significant symptoms after 3 month, please contact the Fracture Clinic on the number below:
Monday to Thursday 830 – 430, Friday 830 – 12.00
Phone: 01324 566000 and ask switch board to page 1088.