A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a fairly common injury, accounting for up to 10% of all fractures. They are especially common among athletes, children, and individuals who experience a fall or direct blow to the shoulder. While clavicle fractures can vary in severity, they almost always impact mobility and comfort in the upper body, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential.
What Is the Clavicle?
The clavicle, or collarbone, is a long, slender bone that runs horizontally between the sternum (breastbone) and the scapula (shoulder blade). Each person has two clavicles — one on the left and one on the right. The clavicle plays an important role in shoulder mechanics by connecting the arm to the rest of the skeleton and helping maintain shoulder alignment and motion.
Because of its position near the skin’s surface and its involvement in everyday movements, the clavicle is especially vulnerable to injury.
What Causes a Clavicle Fracture?
A clavicle fracture usually results from:
- A fall directly onto the shoulder
- A fall on an outstretched arm
- A high-impact collision or contact injury (common in football, hockey, or cycling)
- Birth trauma (in newborns)
- Motor vehicle accidents
Patients of any age may sustain a clavicle fracture, depending on the nature of the injury.
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Clavicle Fracture
A broken collarbone often causes immediate and noticeable symptoms. If you suspect this injury, look for the following signs:
1. Pain at the Site of Injury
Pain typically appears immediately after impact and may worsen with arm movement, deep breathing, or trying to lift objects. Tenderness over the clavicle is a sign of fracture.
2. Visible Deformity
You may notice a bump, bulge, or abnormal angle at the fracture site. In severe cases, the bone may even push against or break through the skin.
3. Swelling and Bruising
The area around the collarbone often becomes swollen and may bruise within a few hours after the injury.
4. Limited Shoulder or Arm Movement
People with a clavicle fracture often cradle the affected arm against the body to minimize movement and pain. Lifting the arm or rotating the shoulder may feel extremely difficult or impossible.
5. Grinding or Popping Sensation
Some individuals feel or hear a grinding or popping sound when attempting to move the shoulder, indicating that the broken ends of the bone are shifting.
6. Sagging of the Shoulder
The shoulder may appear to sag downward or forward due to the loss of structural support from the clavicle.
7. Numbness or Tingling
While less common, nerve irritation or compression caused by the fracture can lead to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.
How a Clavicle Fracture Is Diagnosed
At The Orthopedic Partners, diagnosis begins with a physical exam, where your provider will assess the injury site, test your range of motion, and ask about the mechanism of injury. Imaging tests are used to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity of the fracture:
- X-rays provide a clear view of the clavicle and are typically sufficient for diagnosis.
- CT scans may be recommended for complex fractures, particularly if the break involves multiple fragments or joint surfaces.
Treatment Options for a Clavicle Fracture
The best treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health.
Non-surgical Treatment
Most clavicle fractures can be treated without surgery. Common non-surgical approaches include:
- Arm sling or shoulder immobilizer to keep the arm stable while the bone heals
- Pain management with over-the-counter or prescribed medications
- Physical therapy after a few weeks to restore strength and range of motion
Healing time for non-surgical treatment is typically 6–8 weeks, though it may take longer for full strength to return.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is:
- Significantly displaced (the broken ends don’t align)
- Associated with skin penetration or bone fragments near vital structures
- Involving multiple fragments or located near a joint
- Not healing properly with conservative care
Surgical repair typically involves the use of plates and screws to realign and stabilize the bone. Most patients return to normal activities within a few months, especially with guided rehabilitation.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
If you or your child experiences a fall or impact followed by shoulder pain, tenderness to touch, visible deformity, or limited motion, don’t wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and proper treatment of a clavicle fracture can prevent long-term complications like poor bone healing, chronic pain, and shoulder weakness.
At The Orthopedic Partners, our orthopedic trauma and sports medicine specialists offer expert care for both pediatric and adult patients with clavicle fractures. Whether you need imaging, conservative treatment, or surgical intervention, we’re here to support your recovery every step of the way.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Think you may have a clavicle fracture? Let our experienced team help you heal and get back to your normal routine with confidence. Click here to request an appointment at The Orthopedic Partners today to learn more about your treatment options.
