The clavicle, or collarbone, is frequently injured, often due to trauma like a fall onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm. This slender, S-shaped bone connects the arm to the body’s trunk. When injury occurs in this area, people often confuse the damage, wondering if they have “sprained” their collarbone. Understanding the difference between tissue types is key to properly identifying the injury.
Understanding Sprains and Bones
A sprain involves the stretching or tearing of a ligament, the fibrous tissue connecting two bones at a joint. Since the clavicle is a bone, it cannot technically be sprained. Bone tissue reacts to excessive force by fracturing, which is a break or crack in the structure. Therefore, an injury to the clavicle bone is classified as a fracture, not a sprain.
The most common clavicle fracture occurs in the middle third of the bone, which is the weakest segment. Fractures range from a small crack to a complete break where the bone segments may be displaced. The term “sprain” applies only to the ligaments surrounding the joints where the clavicle meets other bones.
Identifying Injuries Near the Clavicle
Confusion often arises because ligament injuries frequently occur at the two joints adjacent to the clavicle. These injuries are often mistakenly called a “clavicle sprain.”
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Sprains
The AC joint is where the clavicle meets the acromion, a part of the shoulder blade. A sprain to the AC joint ligaments is often referred to as a “separated shoulder.” AC joint sprains are classified using a grading system. A Grade I is a mild stretch, while a Grade III involves a complete tear, causing noticeable displacement of the clavicle.
Sternoclavicular (SC) Joint Sprains
The SC joint involves the ligaments connecting the clavicle to the sternum (breastbone). SC joint injuries are less common but usually result from a high-impact accident.
Symptoms of these sprains include localized pain and tenderness directly over the joint, swelling, and pain with arm movement. The severity of the ligament tear determines the extent of instability and visible deformity. Since the clavicle is involved in both joints, injury to the surrounding ligaments feels like an injury to the collarbone itself.
What to Do After a Collarbone Injury
Due to the possibility of a bone fracture or a severe joint sprain, any significant injury to the collarbone area requires prompt professional medical evaluation. A medical assessment is necessary to determine if the injury is a minor sprain or a more serious fracture or dislocation. Diagnostic imaging, typically an X-ray, is often used to visualize the bone and joint alignment to confirm the exact diagnosis.
While awaiting medical attention, there are immediate steps to manage the injury and discomfort. Rest the injured arm, often by immobilizing it in a sling to prevent painful movement. Applying ice wrapped in a towel to the tender area for 15 to 20 minutes helps reduce pain and swelling.
Watch for signs of a more severe injury, such as a visible deformity, bone pushing against the skin, a grinding sensation when attempting to move the arm, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms warrant immediate emergency attention. For pain relief, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used, provided there are no contraindications.