Collarbone Fracture

What is a collarbone fracture?

A collarbone fracture is a break in the clavicle, the bone in your upper chest that connects your breastbone (sternum) to part of your shoulder blade (scapula).

What is the cause?

A broken collarbone can occur in several ways. You may fall on your outstretched arm and hand, you may fall on your shoulder, or you may be hit directly in the collarbone.

What are the symptoms?

You have pain and swelling at the area of the break. It is difficult to move your arm or shoulder. You may have heard a crack at the time of the injury.

How is it diagnosed?

A healthcare provider will need to examine the collarbone and do an X-ray to see if there is a break.

How is it treated?

To ease your discomfort, your collarbone may be immobilized in a "figure of 8" splint or brace that holds your shoulders back (as if you were standing at attention). Your arm may be put in a sling. Your provider will prescribe a pain medicine. Broken collarbones are very painful for the first few days.

Put an ice pack, gel pack, or package of frozen vegetables, wrapped in a cloth on the area every 3 to 4 hours, for up to 20 minutes at a time.

Only rarely will a broken collarbone need to be surgically repaired.

How long will the effects last?

Most broken collarbones are healed within 6 to 8 weeks. Your healthcare provider may take another X-ray to be sure that the bone has healed. You must be able to move your collarbone, shoulder, and arm without pain before you can return to your activities or sports. You can start rehabilitation exercises after your broken bone has healed and your provider says it is OK.

When can I return to my sport or activity?

Most broken collarbones are healed within 6 to 8 weeks. It is important for the collarbone to be fully healed before you return to your sport or activity so it doesn't break again. You must be able to move your collarbone, shoulder, and arm without pain. Your healthcare provider may take another X-ray to be sure that the bone has healed.

You can begin rehabilitation exercises after your broken collarbone has healed and after you've seen your provider.

How can I prevent a collarbone fracture?

Collarbone fractures are usually the result of accidents that cannot be prevented.

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