Collarbone Fracture: Symptoms, Types, and Treatment
Learn about collarbone fracture symptoms, types, and treatment options. Understand recovery timelines and tips for preventing future injuries.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 31st Aug, 2025
Introduction
A collarbone fracture, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury that can happen to anyone, whether you're an athlete, a child, or someone who has had a fall. The collarbone is a thin, S-shaped bone that connects your shoulder to your chest, and it can break if subjected to strong force.
If you or someone you know has suffered a collarbone injury, don’t worry; most fractures heal well with proper care. In this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms, types, and treatment options so you can understand what to expect and how to recover smoothly.
Symptoms of a Collarbone Fracture
A broken collarbone is usually easy to identify because of the following signs:
Pain & Tenderness – Immediate sharp pain at the fracture site, especially when moving the arm.
Swelling & Bruising – The area around the collarbone may swell and bruise.
Difficulty Moving the Arm – Lifting or moving the affected arm becomes painful.
Visible Deformity – Sometimes, the bone may appear misaligned or stick out under the skin.
A Grinding Sensation – You might feel or hear a crackling sound when moving the shoulder.
If you notice these symptoms after a fall or injury, it’s best to see a doctor for an X-ray to confirm the fracture.
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Types of Collarbone Fractures
Collarbone fractures are classified based on where the break occurs:
1. Middle Third Fracture (Most Common) – The break happens in the middle of the collarbone. This is the most frequent type, especially in adults.
2. Distal Third Fracture (Near the Shoulder) – The break occurs closer to the shoulder joint. This type is more common in athletes.
3. Medial Third Fracture (Near the Sternum) – The break is close to the breastbone. This is the rarest type and may require surgical treatment.
Doctors also categorize fractures as:
Non-displaced – The bone is cracked but still aligned.
Displaced – The bone pieces have moved out of place.
The type and severity of the fracture determine the best treatment approach.
How Is a Collarbone Fracture Treated?
Treatment for a collarbone fracture may be:
1. Non-Surgical Treatment (For Most Cases)
Most collarbone fractures heal without surgery. Treatment includes:
Arm Support (Sling or Brace) – A sling keeps the arm still, allowing the bone to heal naturally.
Pain Management – Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) help reduce pain and swelling.
Ice Packs – Applying ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day reduces swelling.
Physical Therapy – Gentle exercises help restore movement once healing begins (usually after 4-6 weeks).
2. Surgical Treatment (In Severe Cases)
Surgery may be needed if:
The bone is severely displaced.
The fracture is near the shoulder joint.
The bone breaks through the skin (open fracture).
Common surgical methods include:
Plates & Screws – Metal plates hold the bone in place while it heals.
Pins or Rods – Temporary pins may be inserted to stabilize the bone.
Recovery after surgery usually takes 6-8 weeks, followed by physical therapy.
Recovery & Healing Time
Healing time depends on the fracture type and treatment:
Non-surgical healing: 6-8 weeks (children heal faster).
Surgical healing: 8-12 weeks.
Tips for Faster Recovery:
Rest & Avoid Strain – Don’t lift heavy objects or play sports until cleared by your doctor.
Eat a Nutritious Diet – Foods rich in calcium (milk, yoghurt, leafy greens) and vitamin D (eggs, fish) help bone healing.
Follow Up with Your Doctor – Regular check-ups ensure the bone is healing correctly.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if:
The pain is unbearable.
The skin over the fracture is broken.
You notice numbness or weakness in the arm.
If you suspect a collarbone fracture, Apollo 24|7 makes it easy to consult an orthopaedic specialist or book an X-ray from home. Early diagnosis ensures proper healing!
Final Thoughts
A collarbone fracture can be painful, but with the right care, most people recover fully. Whether treated with a sling or surgery, following medical advice and staying patient during recovery is key.
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
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