The collarbone, also known as the clavicle, is a long, S-shaped bone located horizontally across the top of your chest, connecting the breastbone to the shoulder blade. This bone provides structural support for the upper body, helping to position the shoulder and allowing for a wide range of arm movements. Recognizing the common indicators of a fractured collarbone and knowing the appropriate actions to take can help manage the injury effectively.
Recognizing the Signs
A broken collarbone often results in immediate and noticeable symptoms. Intense pain is a primary indicator, particularly when attempting to move the arm or shoulder, and is localized directly over the collarbone area.
Visible changes are frequently observed. Swelling and bruising may develop rapidly around the collarbone. There might also be a noticeable deformity, such as a bump, bulge, or an unusual shape near the bone, or the affected shoulder might appear to sag downward and forward. Sometimes, the skin over the break may even appear “tented” by the bone fragments.
A grinding or crackling sensation, known as crepitus, can occur when moving the shoulder or arm, indicating that bone fragments are rubbing against each other. Difficulty lifting the arm or moving the shoulder due to pain and instability is also common.
The injured area typically feels tender to the touch, and applying gentle pressure can intensify the pain. In some instances, though less common, nerve involvement can lead to numbness or tingling in the arm or hand.
Immediate Steps to Take
If a broken collarbone is suspected, immediate steps should be taken to manage the injury while awaiting medical evaluation. Immobilizing the affected arm and shoulder prevents further movement and reduces pain. This can be achieved by holding the arm close to the body with the uninjured hand or by using a sling.
Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain. An ice pack should be placed on the collarbone for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, every few hours, ensuring a thin cloth is between the ice and the skin. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may also help manage discomfort.
Prompt medical attention is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. This ensures the injury heals correctly and prevents complications, making self-diagnosis or extensive self-treatment beyond initial first aid inadvisable.
Professional Confirmation
A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough physical examination to assess the injury. This typically involves inspecting the area for tenderness, swelling, and any visible deformity. The doctor will also inquire about how the injury occurred and evaluate the range of motion in the shoulder.
Imaging tests are essential for confirming a broken collarbone. X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool used to visualize the fracture, determine its location, and assess its severity. In more complex cases, or if there is concern for associated injuries, a computed tomography (CT) scan may be performed to provide more detailed images of the bone and surrounding structures. A CT scan can be particularly useful for fractures near the breastbone or shoulder blade, where X-rays might be less clear.
Once confirmed, the medical professional will discuss appropriate treatment options, guiding the patient through the healing process.
Common Causes
Broken collarbones commonly result from trauma. Falling directly onto the shoulder is a frequent cause, often seen in sports or everyday accidents. The force of the impact directly on the collarbone can lead to a fracture.
Another common mechanism of injury is falling onto an outstretched arm. This action transmits the force of the fall up the arm to the shoulder, putting significant stress on the clavicle, which can cause it to break. Direct blows to the collarbone, such as those sustained during contact sports or car accidents, also frequently result in fractures.
In newborns, a collarbone fracture can occur during a difficult delivery. This type of injury is relatively common in infants, particularly when there is difficulty with the baby’s shoulders during passage through the birth canal.