Clavicle Fracture

OVERVIEW

CLAVICLE FRACTURE (BROKEN COLLARBONE)

A clavicle fracture, or the more familiar “broken collarbone”, is a common injury that with appropriate treatment usually heals completely, allowing you to resume normal activity.

Your clavicle is: A bone that lies horizontally and connects the shoulder and arm to the sternum (breastbone).

THE FACTS ON CLAVICLE FRACTURES:
  • A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone
  • Clavicle fractures are a common injury in athletes, especially cyclists
  • Most clavicle fractures occur during a fall
  • A clavicle fracture can be painful and cause a large bump to swell at the point of injury
  • Some clavicle fractures are best treated with surgery
  • The following symptoms are caused by a clavicle fracture:
    • Inability to lift your arm because of pain
    • A cracking sensation when you try to raise the arm
    • The appearance of a “bump” over the break
    • Bruising and swelling over the collarbone