Clavicle (Collarbone) Fracture

Description

The clavicle (collarbone) is one of the main bones of the shoulder. A clavicle fracture is one of the most common childhood breaks, usually from a fall onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm. Newborns can also break it during birth, and those heal very quickly.

How it happens (the mechanism)

A fall onto the shoulder, or onto an outstretched arm, sends force along the collarbone until it snaps, most often in the middle third. A firm bump often forms at the healing site — this is normal new bone (callus), and thanks to the collarbone’s rich blood supply and strong healing in children, it smooths out and remodels over the following months.

Symptoms

Pain over the collarbone, a tender bump or step, reluctance to lift the arm, and the child holding the arm against the body.

Doctor examination and imaging

The doctor checks the skin over the bone and the arm’s circulation and feeling; an X-ray confirms the fracture.

Treatment

Almost all are treated simply, with a sling (or a figure-of-eight strap) for comfort for a few weeks, then a gradual return to activity. Surgery is rarely needed in children — reserved for unusual situations like a bone threatening the skin or certain breaks in older teens.

Recovery and long-term outlook

Collarbone fractures in children heal remarkably well. The temporary bump that parents notice is simply healing callus, and it fades as the bone remodels.

When to call the doctor

Call if pain is severe or worsening, your child will not use the arm at all, the area becomes very swollen, red, or warm, your child develops a fever, or things are not improving as expected.

Learn more

OrthoInfo (AAOS) — Growth Plate Fractures: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about your child, consult a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.