Return to Sport After Conservative Management of Midshaft Clavicle Fractures in Professional Jockeys.

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the functional recovery and rates return to play (RTP) of professional jockeys following midshaft clavicle fractures, which have been managed conservatively. The high incidence of these fractures in horse racing underscores the importance of evaluating nonsurgical recovery paths for effective RTP.

Design: We used a retrospective cohort study to assess treatment outcomes.

Setting: The research is set in the professional horse racing scene of Ireland.

Participants: Sixteen professional Irish jockeys with conservatively managed midshaft clavicular fractures were examined. Jockeys who underwent surgery or were inactive at injury time were excluded.

Interventions: The study involved no direct interventions.

Main outcome measures: Recovery was assessed using the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures, alongside racing records to track RTP.

Results: The all-male cohort had an average age of 27 years. Results showed an average 67.1-day absence from racing, with 94% returning to preinjury competition levels. Complications were minimal, and patient outcomes were positive, as indicated by a mean QuickDASH score of 2.58, suggesting minimal residual disability.

Conclusions: Findings highlight the success of conservative management for midshaft clavicle fractures in professional jockeys, enabling them to return to prior competitive levels with few complications and excellent functional recovery.