Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 8/20/2009

Question
Hi Dr. Richard,

Glad to see you on allexperts:)  My doctor had x-rays taken of my right shoulder, and they confirmed that my right clavicle is dislocated/separated (anteriorly and partially i think).  I've read online that some doctors can do closed reductions/manipulations, but haven't found any luck from chiropractors or physical therapists yet...Is that what an orthopedic doctor performs?  As for the causes, I would attribute it to my sports activities that made it prone for this dislocation, but specifically it was a night of sleeping on my back with about 3-4 pillows under my head.  When I woke up, my shoulder and upper body was in trauma and could barely move for 2 weeks.  Because of the way my injury occured, im hoping that it can be fixed without surgery (or regular taping).  Thanks for reading and i appreciate any input! roger

Answer
Hi Roger,

If you have not already I would go see an orthopedist to get this information confirmed. What did the doctor recommend that did the x-ray?

Unless there is a clear separation, there  may not be much they can do. Possibly put it in a sling for awhile to allow healing to take place and go from there. I would like to believe it can be cured without surgery.

Go to a local orthopedist that specializes in sports medicine if you can and see what they can do depending on what degree the separation is considered to be.

A freak injury to say the least.

Richard Haynes PTA/CPT
Punta Gorda, Florida.
http://wwww.richardhaynes.com