A bruised collarbone, or clavicular contusion, results from a direct impact that damages soft tissues and small blood vessels beneath the skin. This trauma causes localized bleeding, leading to characteristic swelling, tenderness, and discoloration without fracturing the clavicle. Because symptoms can overlap with more serious conditions, careful assessment is required for proper management and recovery expectations.
Differentiating a Bruise from a More Serious Injury
It is necessary to distinguish a simple contusion from a clavicle fracture, as a fracture requires immediate medical intervention and has a much longer recovery timeline. A bruise typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and visible discoloration or swelling over the bone. While a contusion causes discomfort and some limitation of movement, the person can generally still move their arm and shoulder, albeit painfully.
A fracture often causes much more severe and sharp pain. This pain is sometimes accompanied by a grinding sensation known as crepitus, which occurs when broken bone fragments rub together. The most alarming signs are an inability to lift the arm, a visible deformity or lump, or a noticeable sagging of the shoulder on the injured side. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary to rule out a fracture or dislocation if these severe signs are present.
Typical Healing Timeline and Influencing Factors
The healing duration for an uncomplicated clavicular contusion generally ranges from two to four weeks. A mild bruise may resolve within two weeks, with pain subsiding quickly and discoloration fading as the body reabsorbs the blood. More moderate contusions, which involve greater soft tissue damage, may require several weeks for complete resolution of all symptoms, sometimes extending up to six weeks.
Several factors influence this timeline, beginning with the severity of the initial trauma. Deeper bruising takes longer to heal than superficial damage because there is more blood and tissue damage to repair. Adherence to rest and activity modification is also a significant factor. Returning to strenuous activity or heavy lifting too soon can re-injure the area and delay healing. Younger individuals tend to heal faster than older adults.
At-Home Management and When to Consult a Doctor
Initial management of a bruised collarbone focuses on reducing pain and swelling to promote healing. This involves prioritizing rest and the use of ice. Apply a cold pack wrapped in a thin towel to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours during the first 48 hours to limit inflammation.
Immobilizing the arm with a simple sling can help take pressure off the collarbone and prevent painful movements, which is useful in the first few days. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to manage pain and swelling, following the dosage recommendations on the label.
When to Consult a Doctor
It is important to seek professional medical attention if symptoms develop or worsen. Consult a doctor if the pain intensifies after the first 48 hours instead of improving, or if you notice any numbness or tingling in the arm or hand, which could indicate nerve involvement. Immediate care is also required for signs of infection, such as a fever or spreading redness, or if the swelling does not begin to decrease after a few days of at-home care.