1. Result of Trauma
The clavicle, or collarbone, is the bone on either side of your upper chest that connects the breastbone to the shoulder blade. A broken collarbone occurs mostly in children under 20 years old, because their bones are still relatively soft. Traumatic force, such as a car accident, falling from a ladder or being pummeled during a football game, are all plausible causes for broken collarbones. Those with weak bones, such as the elderly who have osteoporosis, are especially vulnerable to a collarbone fracture. A broken collarbone in infants occurs as a result of a difficult vaginal delivery, although the injury is rarely serious and heals without incident.
2. What's That Sound?
A broken collarbone causes immediate pain and swelling. You may hear a snapping sound when the collarbone breaks and your shoulder might sag forward. You may experience a grinding sensation if you attempt to move your arm or shoulder. Visually, there may be a bulge and bruise at the fracture point.
3. X-Ray Vision
Immediate medical attention is necessary, especially if the bone protrudes from the skin, your arm is numb or you have trouble breathing. A doctor can diagnose a broken collarbone by a physical examination. After determining the cause of injury, your doctor will examine your shoulder and arm for possible nerve damage and listen to your lungs to make sure the broken bone did not injure them. Your doctor will likely take an x-ray of the collarbone to determine the extent of the break. If you have a fractured collarbone nearest to the shoulder blade, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon and have surgery to repair the fracture.
4. Rest is Best
Treatment for a broken collarbone includes icing the affected area, keeping your arm in a sling and resting the arm for four to six weeks. You can also take over the counter pain relievers as necessary. You should schedule a follow up appointment with your doctor one week following the break so he can evaluate the progress of your healing. Your doctor may educate you on ways to avoid breaking your collarbone in the future, such as wearing protective padding when playing sports. If you experience pain lasting longer than six to eight weeks, see your doctor again for further evaluation.
5. No Longterm Worries
Prognosis for a broken collarbone is generally good. You may notice a slight bulge in the area where the break occurred, but rarely are there long-lasting complications. Younger people recover faster, with older people taking as long as 12 weeks to heal entirely.
