Broken Collarbone – Overview
A broken collarbone is a fracture of the clavicle. The long bone that runs horizontally between the breastbone and shoulder blade. A broken collarbone often occurs due to a fall directly onto the shoulder. An outstretched hand, or a collision during sport or an accident. It’s a common injury across all age groups, especially in children, cyclists, and contact sport athletes.
The clavicle plays a critical role in shoulder function, connecting the arm to the torso and supporting movement. When it breaks, symptoms are typically immediate and include pain, swelling, and difficulty lifting the arm. The break may be visible as a bump or deformity on the shoulder. Most collarbone fractures occur in the middle of the bone, though some may affect the ends near the shoulder or sternum.
This injury is typically diagnosed through physical examination and confirmed with an X-ray. In more complex cases, a CT scan may be used to assess bone displacement or fragment involvement. Treatment usually involves immobilisation with a sling or brace. However, some cases may require surgical intervention if the bone is significantly displaced.
Broken Collarbone
A broken collarbone usually heals well with conservative treatment, especially in children and healthy adults. However, severe fractures, especially those with multiple fragments or poor alignment, may take longer to recover and benefit from surgery. Physiotherapy is important in the later stages to regain full shoulder function and strength.
Prompt treatment and proper follow-up care help reduce the risk of complications like chronic pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion. With the right approach, most patients make a full recovery and return to their usual activities.
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