You have a break (fracture) in your collarbone (clavicle). This will cause swelling, pain, and bruising. The first few weeks will be the most painful. This is because deep breathing, coughing, or changing position from sitting to lying down may cause the broken ends to move slightly.
Collarbone fractures usually heal in about 4 to 6 weeks. Most people can return to normal activities in about 3 months. In children, this injury will heal often by reshaping the bone back to normal. In adults, a noticeable bump in the bone may remain.
Treatment is with a sling or a shoulder immobilizer. This supports your arm and eases pain. Most fractures can be treated this way. But more complicated breaks may need surgery. This is done by an orthopedic surgeon, who specializes in treating bone, muscle, joint, and tendon problems.
Home care
Follow these guidelines when caring for yourself or your child at home:
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Put an ice pack on the injured area. Do this for 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours on the first day. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a thin towel. Keep using the ice pack 3 to 4 times a day for the next 2 days. Then use it as needed to ease pain and swelling.
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If you were given a sling or shoulder immobilizer, wear it for comfort. You may take it off when you bathe or sleep. Take your arm out of the sling for a little while each day and move your shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand to keep them from getting stiff.
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Don’t do any heavy lifting or raise the injured arm overhead until you're pain-free. Your child shouldn’t play sports or do physical education class for at least 4 weeks, or until the health care provider says it’s OK to do so.
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You may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to control pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, talk with your provider before using these medicines. Also talk with your provider if you’ve had a stomach ulcer, digestive tract bleeding, or if you use blood thinners.
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Your provider may refer you to physical therapy for shoulder exercises once it starts to heal.
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You may need surgery if the bones are out of place (displaced). Surgery will put them in better alignment while they heal. This leads to better strength when you have healed.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your provider as advised. This is to be sure the bone is healing the way it should.
X-rays are occasionally taken of the fracture. You'll be told of any new findings that may affect your care.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your provider right away if:
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The swelling in your collarbone gets worse or the skin in the area becomes pale or discolored.
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Large area of bruising appear over the collarbone.
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Your fingers become swollen, cold, blue, numb, or tingly.
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You have shortness of breath, dizziness, or general weakness.
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You have weakness or swelling in your arm.
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You see any redness, drainage, or pus coming from the wound.
