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What is a clavicle fracture?
The clavicle is your collar bone. It connects your shoulder blade (scapula) to your breastbone (sternum). It is commonly injured from:
- Falling onto your shoulder or outstretched arm
- A direct blow during sport or an accident
A fracture is the same as a broken bone. A broken collarbone is usually painful. You may also notice:
- Swelling or tenderness around the area
- Bruising
- Your shoulder may appear to slump forward and down, especially if the arm is not supported
Rarely, you may have numbness or pins and needles if nerves in the arm are injured. If this happens, tell your doctor.
How to treat and recover
Most collarbone fractures heal well without surgery. Treatment involves:
- Wearing a sling to support your arm and reduce movement
- Pain relief with regular painkillers
- Resting the arm and avoiding strain
Sling use
- Wear the sling during the day for at least 2 to 3 weeks
- At night, rest your arm on a soft pillow placed between your arm and body
- If your arm is still painful after 3 weeks, continue using the sling
Pain relief
- Take regular painkillers for the first few days, then as needed
- Use an ice pack for up to 10 minutes, 3–4 times a day, to help with pain and swelling
Healing time
- It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks or more for the bone to heal
- It may take another few months to regain full strength and mobility in your shoulder
Exercise and movement
Start moving your elbow, wrist, and fingers as soon as it feels comfortable. This helps prevent stiffness.
Once the sling is removed:
- Your arm should be pain-free. However, it may be slightly stiff from being in a sling.
- Gradually begin gentle shoulder movements to help with recovery
- Keeping the shoulder moving helps prevent tightness in the surrounding tissues
When can I return to normal activity?
- Avoid strenuous activities until you are completely pain-free
- Avoid contact sports for at least 10 to 12 weeks
- Speak to your doctor before returning to any sports or physical activities
Follow-up care
Most people with a clavicle fracture will be referred to a fracture clinic. You will be contacted by the clinic team to arrange a follow-up.
Surgery is rarely needed, but if your fracture is severe or out of place, the orthopaedic team may discuss the option of an operation with you.
When to seek medical advice
Speak to your GP or return to the hospital if:
- Your pain gets worse instead of improving
- You develop numbness, weakness, or tingling in the arm
- You are worried that the fracture is not healing properly
- You need advice on pain relief or sling use
General support
For general medical advice please use the NHS website, the NHS 111 service, walk-in-centres, or your GP.
- The NHS website provides online health information and guidance.
- There are walk-in and urgent treatment services at Brighton Station, Crawley Urgent Treatment Centre, Lewes Victoria Hospital, Horsham Minor Injuries Unit and Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital.
The information in this leaflet is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
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