Hi all, does anyone have any experience recovering from surgery because of a shattered collarbone? I am 57 years old and have been paddling for 47 years, mainly K1 paddling. I am mainly concerned the metal will be a limiting factor when paddling again. I only had surgery two weeks ago so I do realize it will take more time to get back into my boat again. Thanks in advance.
Having fractured my shoulder some years ago, my advice is to find a good sports physical therapist and do the PT faithfully.
Best wishes for fast and full healing.
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I have had a lot of injuries and broken bones over the years. By all means take advantage of PT.
When you are ready work on range of motion and then light weights.
For shoulders a can of soup is about the right weight to start with.
PT can help with the specific exercises.
Later you can try some light weights on weight machines.
Swimming is a great way to get your motion back.
When you are up to it, paddling is the best way to get back in paddling shape.
Good luck.
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I have found that using a rake in the yard can replicate paddle strokes.
Start with that when you are up to it. Go slowly and work on range of motion.
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Many paddlers do get back on the water after collarbone surgery—even with metal plates. Early on, tightness, numbness, or achiness around the plate is common, but most adapt over time. Focused rehab, patient progression, and small technique adjustments help restore strength and range of motion. Some athletes later remove hardware if it bothers them, but many keep paddling successfully.
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I have had 2 artifical shoulders for 34 years, a bit of a different dynamic from your collar bone but similar in recovery. First I suggest you talk to the orthapedic surgeon to get his recommendation on how long you wait before starting rehab. It usually takes a six week wait for the bones to reattach to each other. Have the orthapedist do a referal to a sports injury rehab center. You should find them more attuned to your issues as a paddler. I have found that it takes about 3 months after starting rehab before I was comfortable paddling on flatwater, a full year before I started paddling WW (class 2-3).
Everyone is going to have their own recovery rate. The more you do the physical therapy exercises will have great impact on your ability recover.
Wishing you well.
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All, thanks for your advice! Really appreciate it. I started rehab two weeks after surgery and last week (six weeks after surgery) the surgeon told me the bones were fully reattached. So yesterday I took my boat out and paddled for about 3 kilometers. It felt strange, but I am confident things will work out for the best. Thanks again for your help!
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