16874 Broken Collarbone Clavicle Fracture

Overview

A broken collarbone, also called a clavicle fracture, is a crack or break in the bone that runs from your shoulder blade to your breastbone. It is one of the most common bone injuries and usually heals well with the right care.

Yes. It is one of the most common bone breaks, especially in children, teenagers, and young adults.

It can affect anyone, but it is most common in active young people, older adults who fall, and newborns during a difficult birth.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain over the collarbone or shoulder area
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
• Difficulty moving your arm or shoulder
• A visible bump or sagging shoulder
• A grinding or crackling feeling when you move your arm

Symptoms in children

• Refusing to move the arm
• Crying when the shoulder or arm is touched
• Swelling or a bulge near the collarbone
• Holding the arm close to the body

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain in the shoulder or collarbone after a fall
• Trouble lifting the arm above shoulder height
• Bruising and swelling that may appear later
• Stiffness in the shoulder or neck

Causes

Main causes

• Falling onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm
• A direct blow to the shoulder, such as in contact sports
• A car accident or other high-energy injury
• Birth injury, especially during a difficult delivery

Risk factors

• Playing contact sports like rugby, hockey, or football
• Older age and weaker bones from osteoporosis
• Being younger, as children are more likely to take falls
• Low bone density or poor nutrition

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You suspected a break and have severe pain or difficulty moving your arm
• There is a visible bump or deformity over the collarbone
• You have numbness, tingling, or coldness in your hand or fingers
• The bone has pierced the skin or there is an open wound (call emergency services)

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have ongoing shoulder pain after a fall or injury
• Pain or stiffness is not improving after a few days
• You are an older adult and have fallen onto your shoulder

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask how the injury happened, examine your shoulder, and check for tenderness, swelling, or a visible bump. They will also check the feeling and blood circulation in your arm and hand.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray: the main imaging test to confirm a collarbone fracture
• CT scan: may be used if the fracture is complex or around the joints
• Ultrasound: sometimes in infants or to look at blood vessels

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may ask you to move your arm or press gently on the collarbone. You may need an X-ray, which is quick and painless. They will discuss whether you need a sling, pain relief, or possibly an orthopedic specialist.

Treatment

Most broken collarbones heal without surgery. The goal is to keep the bone in a good position and manage pain while it heals. Your doctor will explain the best plan for your specific injury.

Self-care at home

• Wear a sling or support as instructed, even while sleeping at first
• Apply a wrapped ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
• Take pain relievers recommended by your doctor or pharmacist
• Start gentle shoulder exercises only when your doctor says it is safe
• Avoid lifting, pushing, or overhead movements until your doctor approves

Medical treatments

Treatment usually involves a sling or arm support to keep the collarbone still while it heals. Pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may be suggested by your doctor, but only take what they recommend for your situation. Physiotherapy is often used to help you regain movement and strength. Some people need additional support from a fracture clinic or orthopedic team.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be recommended if the broken bones are significantly out of place, the bone has broken through the skin, or the injury affects nearby blood vessels or nerves. Surgery often involves fixing the bone with a plate and screws to hold it in proper position.

Living with this condition

You will need to wear your sling during the day and at night at first. Sleep on your back or on the opposite side with extra pillows for support. Try to keep your elbow supported and avoid using that arm for daily tasks until your doctor says it is safe.

Lifestyle tips

• Follow your doctor or physiotherapist's exercise plan slowly
• Avoid contact sports or heavy lifting for at least a few months
• Wear a seatbelt whenever you are in a vehicle
• Protect your shoulder with padding if you return to contact sports

Diet and exercise

Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals, can support bone healing. Gentle movement like walking is fine, but do not use the injured arm. Your physiotherapist will guide you through safe stretching and strengthening exercises.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It can feel frustrating to lose the use of your arm, especially for active people. Expect a range of emotions, and give yourself time to heal. Talk to your friends, family, or doctor if you feel low or anxious.

Prevention

Not all broken collarbones can be prevented, but you can reduce the risk by preventing falls, using protective gear during sports, and keeping your bones strong with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Complications

If left untreated

• The bone may heal in a poor position, causing a permanent bump or shoulder weakness
• The fracture may not join, called non-union, leading to long-term pain
• A sharp bone edge could damage nearby blood vessels in rare cases
• Stiffness or weakness in the shoulder and arm if you do not move it properly

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most collarbone fractures heal completely within 6 to 12 weeks, and most people regain full use of their arm and shoulder. Following your care plan and doing gentle rehabilitation exercises will help you recover well.

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