The clavicle is a slender, S-shaped bone extending horizontally from the breastbone (sternum) to the shoulder blade (scapula). It connects the arm to the body and supports shoulder movement. Pain in this area is a frequent concern.
Common Causes of Collarbone Pain
Injury is a frequent reason for collarbone discomfort. Fractures are common, often resulting from falls onto an outstretched arm or direct blows to the shoulder during sports or accidents. These breaks cause sudden, intense pain that worsens with movement, and may be accompanied by swelling, bruising, or a grinding sensation.
Joint issues can also contribute to collarbone pain. The clavicle connects to the shoulder blade at the acromioclavicular (AC) joint and to the breastbone at the sternoclavicular (SC) joint. Injuries like AC joint separations, where ligaments are torn, can cause pain, tenderness, and sometimes a visible bulge. Osteoarthritis, involving cartilage breakdown, can affect these joints, leading to gradual pain and stiffness.
Pain may also stem from muscle strain or overuse. Muscles in the neck, shoulder, and upper back can become tight or strained due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or unaccustomed physical activity. This muscle tension can refer pain to the collarbone area, such as when tight pectoral muscles pull on the clavicle.
Nerve compression can lead to collarbone pain. Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when nerves or blood vessels passing through the narrow space between the collarbone and the first rib become compressed. This can result in pain above the collarbone, often accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm or hand. Causes include poor posture, repetitive stress, or congenital abnormalities.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Specific signs indicate collarbone pain warrants medical evaluation. If you experience severe, sudden pain, especially after an injury like a fall or direct impact, seek prompt medical care. This includes a visible deformity, significant swelling, or bruising around the collarbone.
An inability to move the arm or shoulder, or a noticeable decrease in range of motion, suggests a serious injury. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand accompanying the pain could signal nerve involvement.
Other concerning symptoms include pain that worsens or does not improve with rest and home care. Pain accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss should prompt a medical visit, as these could indicate an underlying infection or other conditions. If collarbone pain occurs with difficulty breathing or chest pain, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary.
Managing Collarbone Pain at Home
For mild collarbone pain not requiring immediate medical intervention, self-care strategies can provide relief. Rest is important; limiting activities that aggravate the pain allows the area to heal and reduces inflammation.
Ice therapy can help reduce swelling and pain, especially in initial injury stages. Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, several times a day. After the acute phase, heat therapy, such as warm compresses, can relax muscles and improve circulation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. Always follow dosage instructions.
Improving posture can alleviate strain on the collarbone. Being mindful of how you sit and stand, and ensuring shoulders are not rounded forward, can reduce muscle tension. Gentle movement and stretching can help maintain flexibility, but avoid any movements that increase discomfort. Using a sling for temporary support or supportive pillows while resting can provide comfort.