Clavicle Fracture
What Is a Clavicle Fracture?
The clavicle (collarbone) is a long, slender bone that connects the arm and shoulder blade to the main skeleton at the breastbone. Because it sits just under the skin with little cushioning and bears significant force when we fall onto an arm or shoulder, it’s one of the most commonly fractured bones in the body, particularly in cyclists, skiers, and contact-sport athletes.
What Causes a Clavicle Fracture?
- A direct fall onto the shoulder
- A fall onto an outstretched arm, transmitting force up through the arm to the collarbone
- A direct blow to the collarbone, such as in a collision during contact sports
- High-speed falls from a bike or during skiing, which are among the most common causes seen in active patients
What Are the Symptoms of a Clavicle Fracture?
- Immediate, sharp pain at the site of the break
- A visible bump, deformity, or “tenting” of the skin over the fracture
- Swelling and bruising along the collarbone
- Difficulty or inability to raise the arm
- A grinding sensation when attempting to move the shoulder
- The shoulder may appear to droop forward and downward on the injured side
Can You Tell How Severe a Clavicle Fracture Is Just by Looking at It?
To some degree, yes — a visible bump or obvious deformity often indicates the fracture fragments have shifted out of alignment (displaced), while a fracture with only mild swelling and no visible deformity may be a more stable, non-displaced break. That said, X-rays are essential to fully evaluate the fracture pattern, since the amount of displacement, shortening, and whether the fracture is in one or multiple pieces all influence the recommended treatment.
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Treatment Options for Clavicle Fracture
Nonsurgical treatment is appropriate for many clavicle fractures, particularly those that are non-displaced or only mildly displaced:
- A sling to support and immobilize the arm, typically for several weeks
- Gradual return of motion as the bone heals, guided by follow-up X-rays
- Physical therapy once healing is confirmed, to restore strength and motion
Surgery is more often recommended for fractures that are significantly displaced, shortened, broken into multiple pieces, or that fail to heal with nonsurgical care. Surgical treatment typically involves realigning the fracture and securing it with a plate and screws, which can allow for a faster, more predictable return to full function, particularly in athletes and highly active patients. Learn more on our Clavicle Fracture Surgery page.
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Dr. Palsis specializes in the treatment of knee, shoulder, and sports injuries.