The clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone, is a slender, S-shaped bone positioned horizontally at the top of the ribcage. It extends from the sternum (breastbone) to the shoulder blade, connecting the arm to the trunk of the body. The clavicle supports the shoulder, allowing a wide range of arm movements. Its exposed location makes it one of the most frequently fractured bones.
Key Indicators of a Collarbone Break
Recognizing a broken collarbone involves observing physical symptoms and sensations. Severe pain localized over the collarbone area is a common indicator, often worsening with any movement of the shoulder or arm. This pain can be particularly intense when attempting to lift the arm.
Visible changes are often present at the injury site. Swelling and tenderness are typical, and bruising or discoloration of the skin over the collarbone may develop within a few hours. A noticeable bump, bulge, or abnormal angle can appear over the break. In some instances, the broken bone might push the skin into a “tent” formation.
Movement of the affected arm and shoulder becomes limited, and individuals might instinctively cradle the injured arm to minimize discomfort. A grinding or crackling sensation, known as crepitus, may be felt or heard when attempting to move the arm. The shoulder on the injured side may appear to sag downward and forward compared to the uninjured side. Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand can occur if the fracture irritates nearby nerves.
What to Do Immediately After Injury
If a collarbone break is suspected, take immediate steps to manage the injury and prepare for medical attention. The primary goal is to immobilize the affected arm and shoulder to prevent further movement of bone fragments, which could complicate healing. A simple arm sling can be used for comfort and to keep the arm and shoulder in a stable position. If a ready-made sling is unavailable, a makeshift sling using a towel or bandage can help support the arm close to the body.
Applying ice or a cold pack to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, every one to two hours during the initial days, ensuring a thin cloth is placed between the ice and the skin. Over-the-counter pain medication can also help manage discomfort.
Seeking professional medical evaluation promptly is important. A suspected collarbone fracture requires definitive diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider. This immediate action helps ensure proper bone healing and can prevent potential complications.
How a Doctor Confirms the Break
To diagnose a collarbone fracture, a medical professional will conduct a thorough examination and utilize diagnostic imaging. The process begins with the doctor inquiring about how the injury occurred and the symptoms experienced. A physical examination includes visually inspecting the injured area and gently palpating (touching) the collarbone for tenderness, swelling, or deformities. The doctor may also assess nerve and blood vessel function in the arm and hand.
The most common method to confirm a clavicle fracture is through X-rays. X-rays provide images of dense structures like bones, allowing the doctor to pinpoint the fracture’s exact location, assess its severity, and determine if the bone pieces are out of alignment. Standard X-ray views provide comprehensive details of the fracture.
In more complex cases, or if there is concern about damage to surrounding structures like blood vessels or nerves, a computerized tomography (CT) scan may be ordered. CT scans offer more detailed, cross-sectional images than X-rays, which can be particularly useful for evaluating displaced fractures or injuries near the ends of the bone where X-rays might be less clear. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is less commonly used for acute clavicle fractures but can be helpful for evaluating soft tissue injuries or chronic issues.