Broken Collarbone (Clavicle)

Introduction

The clavicle is a commonly injured bone in both children and adults. The clavicle is also known as the collar bone. It is the first ossified bone in the human body and connects the arm to the trunk. Clavicle fractures are relatively common, accounting for 5% of fractures in adults in the United States. Management of collar bone fractures in adults depends on the extent of the injury. Nondisplaced fractures can be managed conservatively while displaced fractures necessitate surgery. Displaced fractures require the consultation of an orthopedic surgeon. Clavicle fractures are a common cause of shoulder pain.

The clavicle, or collarbone is a long, thin bone overlying the chest. Specifically, it connects the front, flat plate of the rib cage, the sternum, to the scapula via the acromion, a bony prominence right before the shoulder joint. The clavicle is connected to these bones by multiple ligaments. It has multiple functions. First, it stabilizes the arm’s connection to the trunk acting a strut holding your arm out to length. Second, it acts as another layer of protection for the delicate nerves and vessels lying underneath.

A broken collarbone typically presents with pain and difficulty moving the affected side. There may be bruising, swelling, a bump, or tenderness over the area of the clavicle. The patient can have difficulty raising the arm on the affected side or they can have difficulty moving that arm due to pain. The shoulder can also sag downward and forward.

Typically, a clavicle fracture is diagnosed with imaging. A physician will normally conduct a physical exam and then order X-Rays. X-rays can show bony surfaces and relatively adequate detail. Therefore, there are useful when looking for fractures. However, X-Rays will not show any damage to the muscle or soft tissue of the shoulder joint. If a physician suspects more extensive injuries to the shoulder joint, he or she may order additional imaging, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

The clavicle is a thin bone that connects the arms to the trunk. It is easily injured by falls, traffic accidents, or sporting incidents. Symptoms include pain and difficulty moving the arm on the affected side. Depending on the extent of the injury, the primary physician may consult an orthopedic surgeon for expert management. Clavicle fractures can be managed surgically or non-operatively. Both treatment options will involve physical therapy. Ask Dr. Morton about your options in regards to clavicle fractures. He can review your imaging with you and show you if your clavicle meets the condition for surgery or for nonoperative treatment.