Question - Broken Clavicle (return to football time line)

by Karen
(chico,ca)

What is a general time line of returning to contact football after a clavicle fracture. Our son is 16.

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Question - Broken Clavicle (return to football time line)

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Sep 04, 2008
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4-6 weeks
by: Bart - SII

Fractures take 4-6 weeks to heal if everything goes well. So, the minimal time frame is likely 4 weeks.

There are lots of other factors that can change the timeline - the type of fracture, if it is displaced, where it is located, the physicians philosophy, etc. So, 4-6 weeks is a general rule of thumb that is then modified.

I would talk to your doctor to get specifics for your son's case. It is also important to remember that returning should be a gradual process as it will take a few practice sessions to become conditioned and ready for full activity again.

Bart

Sep 04, 2008
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clavicle fractures
by: Jack Freidel, M.D.

If the clavicle is displaced, the longterm data shows that the athlete is better served being out for the season. The fracture will likely completely heal in 6 months, but there have been cases where athletes have refractured at the same site by doing push-ups 8 months after initial fracture. It's hard for the athlete and their parents to accept being out for the season. Especially, after the first or second game of the year.