Could You Function Without Collarbones?
Clavicles, also known as collarbones link and support the ribcage area giving firmness to our shoulders and spine. Even though clavicles are long bones located in such an essential part of the body and contribute to balancing our body, they might not be as fundamental as other bones.
The collarbones are long horizontal bones that connect the upper limb and the trunk. They protect the upper part of the ribcage where we find essential body organs such as the lungs and the heart. Despite its location, the clavicles are not indispensable to protect these organs, even though they do contribute to this role.
Some people don’t develop collarbones; they can be born without them, have defective ones, or grow them at an older age. This abnormality is one of the symptoms of a rare disorder known as cleidocranial dysplasia. This condition consists of the malformation, delayed growth, or even absence of some bones and teeth. People with this condition may, for example, experience a late eruption of some teeth, suffer scoliosis, have a short stature, among other symptoms.
In most cases, cleidocranial dysplasia patients with underdeveloped or absent clavicles. They should not find significant obstacles in carrying out their daily activities. Some of the problems that come with this disorder are usually related to their physical image.
Even in the case of having a fractured clavicle, besides the recovery treatment recommended by a doctor, generally, vital organs in this area will not be affected. Nevertheless, a fracture in the clavicle may affect our daily routines. Inflammation, soreness, and weakness around can impede upper body motions or activities such as lifting objects or using our arms for other daily tasks.
For cleidocranial dysplasia patients, there are ways to treat their symptoms individually. For example, in the case of abnormalities related to teeth, patients might go through orthodontic corrections or surgeries. Similar procedures might get done to improve the condition of other affected bones.
When it comes to clavicle fractures, most treatments include sling support to immobilize the arm, a brace for the shoulder, anti-inflammatory medicines, painkillers, and eventually, therapy to recover the motion and strength of the affected area. In cases where the bone pieces are too apart, surgery will be necessary to put them back together. This procedure requires the use of plates, rods, or screws. The average recovery time after this procedure goes from 7 to 12 weeks.
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