Investigating functional and kinematic alterations in upper limb motion following clavicular malunions in adults using 3-D kinematic analysis and functional tasks.

Current evidence suggests displaced, mid-shaft clavicle fractures can be managed conservatively with satisfactory long-term functional outcomes, although critically other studies suggest 42% of people have residual sequelae; including deficit in shoulder strength and endurance. Common side effects of a conservatively managed fracture leading to malunion include: pain, loss of strength, fatigue, neurological symptoms.

Questions that remain unanswered in the literature and that this PhD study aims to address is the following:

• An individual who has sustained a clavicle fracture and managed conservatively, is their functional ability compromised in comparison to a normal cohort of population when undertaking upper limb specific activities of daily living and sporting activities?
• An individual who has a clavicular malunion, is their shoulder kinematic similar to a normal cohort of population when undertaking upper limb specific activities of daily living and sporting activities?