A clavicle fracture is a broken collarbone. It's a common injury related to trauma to the shoulder or direct impact to the clavicle.
The clavicle, or collarbone, provides stability and strength to your shoulder. It also protects nerves and blood vessels that run from the neck to the shoulder.
A broken collarbone, or clavicle fracture, occurs when you receive a direct blow to the:
You can also break your collarbone if you fall on the “tip” of an unprotected shoulder.
Athletes that tend to be at higher risk of getting a clavicle fracture include:
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A clavicle fracture will often cause instant pain in the shoulder or collarbone.
Other broken collarbone symptoms include:
Your doctor will look for signs of a fracture — such as a lump or bump — on the clavicle, or collarbone.
He or she will also check your:
Your doctor will also perform an x-ray to confirm a broken collarbone diagnosis and see the severity of the injury.
To make an appointment for a broken collarbone, or clavicle fratcture, contact UPMC Sports Medicine at 1-855-93-SPORT (77678).
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If you break your collarbone while playing sports, you want to immobilize the shoulder first and seek treatment from a doctor.
Broken collarbone treatments include:
Broken collarbone recovery time depends on the severity of the injury, but it usually heals on its own in about four to six weeks.
While your broken collarbone heals, you:
Once the bone heals, you will need to:
If you have a severe clavicle fracture, your doctor may suggest broken collarbone surgery.
You will need to remain in a sling for about six weeks after clavicle fracture surgery and begin physical therapy exercises right after.
It may take three months or more following clavicle fracture surgery to regain your full strength and return to activity.
To make an appointment or learn more about broken collarbone (clavicle fracture) treatment, contact UPMC Sports Medicine at 1-855-93-SPORT (77678).
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