Broken Collarbone (Clavicle Fracture)

A broken collarbone, or clavicle fracture, is a common injury resulting from a break in the collarbone connecting your ribcage to your shoulder.

Description

This injury can range from a minor crack to a complete break where bone fragments separate.

Symptoms

• Intense shoulder pain
• Swelling and tenderness
• Bruising
• Inability to lift the arm
• A grinding sensation or visible bump

Causes & Risk Factors

Usually caused by a fall directly onto the shoulder, a sports collision, or a car accident. Risk factors include participation in contact sports, osteoporosis, and age (most common in teens and older adults).

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosed via physical examination and an X-ray. Treatment depends on severity:

• Non-surgical: A sling, pain management, and physical therapy for simple fractures.
• Surgical: Plates and screws to realign displaced bone fragments.